Director Animal Behavior Jobs in Reno, NV (NOW HIRING)

About the Organization

Liberty Dogs is a premier Service Dog training program whose goal is to empower Veterans with disabilities to lead more independent and fulfilling lives - enhancing their well-being through the unconditional support that Liberty Service Dogs provide. Located on a 27-acre campus, it includes a training facility, dog housing, an administrative and multipurpose building, and accommodations for Veterans staying on campus to train with their Liberty Service Dogs.

Position Summary:

The Lead Dog Caregiver is responsible for providing humane, high-quality daily care for all dogs housed on campus while serving as a working leader for the caregiving team. This role supports daily operations, ensures adherence to care standards and protocols, and acts as a point of contact for staff, volunteers, and cross-functional teams. The Lead Dog Caregiver helps maintain a clean, safe, and enriching environment, monitors animal health and behavior, and supports team development to promote successful outcomes and placements.

Key Responsibilities:

Animal Husbandry & Cleaning

• Oversee and participate in daily cleaning and disinfecting of dog kennels, runs, and common areas in accordance with disease control protocols.
• Ensure all dogs receive fresh food and water according to feeding schedules and dietary needs.
• Monitor completion and quality of cleaning tasks, providing guidance and correction as needed.
• Wash and sanitize food and water bowls, laundry (bedding, towels), and shelter equipment.
• Ensure all animals have appropriate bedding, toys, and a clean living environment.
• Coordinate and perform deep cleaning of vacated enclosures.

Animal Health & Welfare Monitoring

• Observe animal appearance and activity for overall physical condition and signs of illness, injury, or distress.
• Ensure timely and accurate reporting of health or behavioral concerns to veterinary or leadership staff.
• Administer medications as directed and ensure proper documentation by team members.
• Assist with grooming tasks such as bathing, brushing, and nail trims.
• Provide guidance to team members on recognizing and responding to health and behavioral concerns.

Animal Handling & Enrichment

• Safely and humanely handle dogs of various sizes, breeds, and temperaments.
• Ensure all dogs receive appropriate daily exercise, enrichment, and socialization.
• Guide staff in implementing enrichment activities and basic behavior shaping techniques.
• Support behavior and training plans in collaboration with behavior staff to improve adoptability and well-being.

Team Leadership & Supervision

• Provide day-to-day direction, support, and coaching to Dog Caregivers and volunteers.
• Assist with training and onboarding of new team members.
• Monitor workflow, assign tasks, and ensure coverage for all caregiving duties.
• Reinforce adherence to policies, procedures, and safety standards.
• Serve as a point of escalation for routine issues and communicate updates to management.
• Lead by example by maintaining high standards of care, professionalism, and teamwork.

Record Keeping & Communication

• Ensure accurate and timely recordkeeping for feeding, medications, observations, and animal movement.
• Review team documentation for completeness and accuracy.
• Communicate clearly and professionally with staff, volunteers, and the public.
• Collaborate with medical, behavior, and adoption teams to ensure seamless care and transitions.

Shelter Operations

• Support intake and release processes as directed.
• Monitor inventory and restock supplies; notify leadership of needs.
• Assist in maintaining overall cleanliness and organization of the facility.
• Provide guidance and support to volunteers and staff during daily operations.
• Step in as acting supervisor when needed.
• Ensure compliance with all shelter policies, procedures, and safety protocols.

Other Duties as Assigned

Required Skills & Qualifications:

Position Requirements

• Demonstrated leadership or supervisory experience preferred.
• Strong organizational, multitasking, and problem-solving abilities.
• High attention to detail and commitment to quality care standards.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion.
• Previous experience in animal care, kennel work, or shelter environments required.
• Flexibility in scheduling (5x8 or 4x10 shifts between 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM).
• Ability to work weekends and adjust to operational needs.

Skills

• Strong compassion for animals and commitment to their welfare.
• Advanced animal handling skills, including working with fearful or behaviorally complex dogs.
• Knowledge of common canine diseases, symptoms, and transmission.
• Ability to coach and mentor team members effectively.
• Strong observational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to remain calm and lead effectively in high-pressure or emotional situations.
• Strong teamwork and collaboration skills.
• Flexibility and adaptability in a fast-paced environment.
• Basic computer skills for documentation and record-keeping.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; additional education in animal care, veterinary technology, or related field preferred.
• Valid driver's license with a clean driving record.
• Ability to successfully pass a background check.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office or similar systems.

Physical Demands & Work Environment:

• Ability to lift and carry up to 40 lbs regularly and assist with animals up to 90 lbs.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop, kneel, and twist for extended periods.
• Ability to perform repetitive motions involving arms, legs, and hands.
• Comfortable working in environments with noise, odors, animal waste, and potential exposure to bites or scratches.
• Must not have allergies that would be aggravated by working with animals.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.

Why Join Liberty Dogs?

At Liberty Dogs Foundation, we live by a simple truth: We take care of those who have taken care of our great nation. This role is your opportunity to shape a program that will set a national standard in Veteran wellness and service dog partnerships-changing lives, one Veteran and one dog at a time.

We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.