Behavior & Medical Assistant

Make an Impact Where It Matters Most. Do you have a passion for both animal behavior and medical care? Are you looking for a hands-on role where you can directly improve the lives of animals every day. The Animal Protection Society of Durham (APS) is seeking a Behavior & Medical Assistant to join our team. This is a unique, cross-functional role supporting both our Behavior and Medical teams—helping animals heal, grow, and prepare for successful adoption. Why This Role Matters. In this position, you'll play a critical role in: Improving animal health and wellbeing. Reducing stress in the shelter environment. Supporting successful adoptions. Bridging the gap between medical care and behavior support. What You'll Do.

Behavior Support & Enrichment:

Implement enrichment and behavior modification plans. Observe and document animal behavior. Support temperament evaluations and training activities. Provide daily enrichment to reduce stress.

Medical & Animal Wellbeing Support:

Assist with medications and treatments (under supervision). Monitor animals for health or behavior changes. Support veterinary staff during exams and procedures. Help prepare animals for treatment and recovery.

Animal Handling & Care:

Safely handle animals of all sizes and temperaments. Use proper restraint techniques. Support movement of animals across departments.

Documentation & Communication:

Maintain accurate records of treatments and observations. Update shelter systems (e.g., Chameleon). Communicate effectively with Medical & Behavior teams.

Team Collaboration:

Work closely with Behavior, Medical, Animal Care, and Customer Service teams. Support adoption readiness. Participate in trainings and team meetings.

Facility & Sanitation:

Clean and disinfect kennels and treatment areas. Follow biosecurity and disease prevention protocols.

What We're Looking For:

Passion for animal welfare, behavior, and medical care. Ability to handle animals safely and compassionately. Strong attention to detail and observational skills. Ability to stay calm in high-stress situations. Strong teamwork and communication skills. Ability to work in a fast-paced, physically demanding environment.

Qualifications:

High School Diploma or equivalent required. Experience working with animals (shelter, vet clinic, training, etc.) preferred. Knowledge of positive reinforcement training is a plus. Interest in veterinary medicine, animal behavior, or animal welfare strongly encouraged.

Work Environment:

Veterinary clinic and shelter setting. Exposure to animals with varying medical and behavioral needs. Physical role (lifting up to 50 lbs, standing, bending, walking). May include weekends, holidays, and flexible scheduling. Why Join APS?: Be part of a mission-driven organization making real impact. Gain hands-on experience in both medical and behavior fields. Work alongside a dedicated, compassionate team. Grow your career in animal welfare and veterinary care.

Apply Today:

If you're ready to make a difference in the lives of animals and be part of something meaningful, we'd love to hear from you.

Equal Opportunity Employer:

APS of Durham is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and does not discriminate based on any protected status under applicable law.