Behaviour Trainer

Behaviour Trainer (North Melbourne Shelter)

1 x Full-Time 12-Month Fixed Term (76 hours per fortnight)

About us:

At The Lost Dogs' Home, we are a foundation in Victoria's animal welfare landscape, celebrated for our compassionate care of around 18,000 lost and abandoned dogs and cats every year. Beyond caring for animals, we are dedicated to providing diverse animal welfare and community programs, all aimed at giving animals the best chance of a happy and healthy life. Our mission is upheld by passionate individuals who embody a profound affinity for animals, community, and advocacy.

The role:

We have an exciting and unique opportunity for an experienced Behaviour Trainer to join our Behaviour Department on a full-time fixed term basis. The Behaviour Department is primarily responsible for conducting behaviour assessments of animals on site for rehoming. In addition to this, you will design and implement behaviour modification treatment plans to ensure that animals in the care of the Behaviour Department at The Lost Dogs' Home are provided with adequate reward-based training and enrichment. The Behaviour Department also works closely with other departments to assists with behavioural issues and you may be also develop behaviour modification programs for other animals on site, and in foster care.

The Lost Dogs' Home is committed to force-free, reward-based animal training methods, and you will be responsible for practicing this method of behaviour training.

Your responsibilities will be:

• Performing behaviour assessments of shelter dogs under the direction of the Animal Behaviour Team Leader.
• Designing and implementing force-free, reward-based behaviour modification treatment plans and managing own case load.
• Write accurate and detailed reports based on animal progress and response to behaviour modification.
• Develop and run behaviour training sessions for internal staff and volunteers.
• Supporting shelter staff and fellow team members in achieving positive outcomes.
• Providing excellent customer service to all internal and external clients of the Home.
• Engaging in administrative tasks as required.
• Undertake general animal husbandry duties such as cleaning and feeding as required.

You will have:

• Relevant qualification in animal behaviour and/or training, or working towards a relevant qualification (Cert IV behaviour and training students are encouraged to apply)
• Animal handling experience in an animal shelter, kennel, and/or cattery environment (highly desirable)
• Experience working professionally as a Dog Behaviour Trainer (desirable)
• Confidence with handling dogs of varying temperaments.
• A commitment to force-free, reward-based training methods.
• Passion for animal behaviour and welfare.
• Willingness to work as part of a wider team and autonomously.
• High degree of emotional maturity.
• Ability to work in a challenging, fast-paced environment.

About our culture:

At The Lost Dogs' Home, we cultivate an inclusive work environment that celebrates diversity. Our team enjoys a vibrant culture that fosters meaningful connections, both professionally and socially. Led by our dedicated social committee, we organise a wide range of engaging activities such as Paint and Sip Nights, Bowling, Trivia, and regular after-work gatherings. These events create opportunities for our team to relax, bond, and forge lasting friendships. We take pride in our diverse team where every individual is encouraged to be their authentic self, regardless of their role within the organisation.

What we can offer you:

• Unique work environment, supporting a great cause
• A rewarding job opportunity to help change the lives of shelter animals
• Career development opportunities and financial assistance with approved studies
• Access to our Employee Assistance Program and onsite counselling service
• Discounts at our Vet Clinic, Frank Samways
• Friendly, passionate and supportive team who will help develop your skills in animal welfare

If you have the skills, experience and enthusiasm to be successful in this role, please click on the "Apply" button, ensuring you have attached your cover letter and current resume in Word or PDF format. If you have any further questions or queries regarding the role, please email

Please note that applications will be reviewed as they are received, so we encourage you to apply early as the role may close if a suitable candidate is found. Don't miss out—apply today

The successful applicant will be required to satisfactorily complete background screening checks.

The Lost Dogs' Home is an equal opportunity employer committed to providing a working environment that embraces and values diversity and inclusion. Only candidates with the right to work in Australia may apply for this position.