Job Description

Transform the Shelter Experience: Seeking Canine Wellness Specialists

Position Summary

The Animal Care & Enrichment Specialist (ACES) plays a key role in ensuring the emotional, social, and physical wellbeing of dogs and cats in the Alaska SPCA's care. This position is responsible for providing trauma-informed, compassionate, and developmentally appropriate care for dogs and puppies, cats and kittens, many of whom enter the shelter with stress, fear, or behavioral challenges.



This is a hands-on position requiring strong understanding of canine body language, stress signals, and enrichment techniques to reduce anxiety and promote adoptable behaviors. The ideal candidate is patient, observant, and committed to positive reinforcement-based handling.

Special Scheduling Note:

These positions require hours as early as 7:00 a.m. and as late as 8:30 p.m. Weekend schedules are required. The P/T position is a morning shift four days/week.

Key Responsibilities

Animal Care & Welfare

Provide daily feeding, cleaning, and husbandry in a calm, predictable manner that reduces stress and supports trust-building. Recognize and appropriately respond to canine stress signals and body language; adjust care routines to meet individual needs. Use positive reinforcement and fear-free handling in all interactions. Implement and document enrichment activities (e.g., scent games, puzzle feeders, walks, playgroups) that support dogs' mental and emotional health. Support developmental needs of puppies, including socialization, basic training, and exposure exercises.

Behavior & Enrichment

Collaborate with the Shelter Manager and veterinary staff to follow individualized care or behavior plans. Track behavior observations and progress notes accurately in shelter software. Contribute to the design and improvement of kennel environments and enrichment programs. Assist in behavior evaluations, intake assessments, and safe introductions between dogs and people or other animals.

Teamwork & Professionalism

Model calm, compassionate, and consistent handling practices. Participate in ongoing professional development in canine behavior, training, and enrichment. Maintain clean, safe, and organized kennel areas in compliance with Alaska SPCA protocols and animal welfare standards. Support volunteers and foster caregivers in understanding and applying humane handling methods. Assist in the adoption process as directed by the shelter manager.

Qualifications

Minimum 1 year of professional experience working with dogs and cats in a shelter, training, daycare, or veterinary setting. Working knowledge of canine body language, learning theory, and positive reinforcement. Ability to safely handle dogs of all sizes and temperaments. Excellent communication and teamwork skills. Able to use common computer applications. Physical ability to lift up to 50 lbs, stand/walk for extended periods, and work in noisy environments. + Certification (Fear Free Shelters, Dog Handler Academy, IAABC, CCPDT, or similar) preferred but not required.

Compensation & Benefits

Hourly rate based on experience. Paid time off, holiday pay, dental and vision insurance, retirement plan with employer match, and employee discounts on veterinary services. Opportunities for professional training and certification.

Organizational Culture

At the Alaska SPCA, we believe that emotional safety is as essential as physical safety. Our canine care approach prioritizes trust, enrichment, and behavioral wellness. We are looking for individuals who share our commitment to compassion, learning, and collaboration in the pursuit of better outcomes for Alaska's dogs and cats.