Playgroup Facilitator

Playgroup Facilitator

FLSA Status: Exempt

Summary

The Playgroup Facilitator runs day-to-day off-leash playgroup sessions as ACCT Philly scales the program to 50+ dogs a day across a multi-yard model (Assessment and enrichment groups including dogs in isolation, with each dog getting as much time outside as possible. This is a hands-on, in-the-yard role: handling dogs, bringing dogs to and from the yard, and keeping documentation current, all under the direction of the Director of Medical & Behavior and alongside the Behavior Coordinators. The primary focus is on safely and efficiently getting dogs in and out of the yard, with secondary duties including dog evaluations and other behavior team tasks that help result in more dogs getting to participate in playgroups.

Core Responsibilities – Daily Playgroup Facilitation

• Facilitate playgroups across a multi-yard model, working with staff in other departments to run safe groups • Work as one of the in-yard handlers or runners, helping get 50+ dogs into playgroups daily. • Follow the daily schedule as staffing allows and keep dogs cycling through the yards efficiently and safely. • Get every eligible dog into a playgroup that day, weather and temperament permitting. • Read dog body language in real time and manage introductions, group dynamics, and removals to keep play safe and appropriate. • Perform "leveling" observations during handling — noting kennel presentation, treat-taking, ease of handling, leash behavior, and behavior on return — to support volunteer-walking assessments. • Each day, oversee the creation of or create the list of dogs that can attend playgroup, reviewing all factors that may exclude them (holds, medical issues, etc) • Set up and break down the yard each day (equipment, water, cleanup) and flag any maintenance or safety issues. • Coordinate in real time with other departmental staff on the day's coverage needs. • Create daily playgroup schedule and assign staff in conjunction with relevant departments including but not limited to animal care Core Responsibilities – Daily Playgroup Facilitation

• Facilitate playgroups across a multi-yard model, working with staff in other departments to run safe groups • Work as one of the in-yard handlers or runners, helping get 50+ dogs into playgroups daily. • Follow the daily schedule as staffing allows and keep dogs cycling through the yards efficiently and safely. • Get every eligible dog into a playgroup that day, weather and temperament permitting. • Read dog body language in real time and manage introductions, group dynamics, and removals to keep play safe and appropriate. • Perform "leveling" observations during handling — noting kennel presentation, treat-taking, ease of handling, leash behavior, and behavior on return — to support volunteer-walking assessments. • Each day, oversee the creation of or create the list of dogs that can attend playgroup, reviewing all factors that may exclude them (holds, medical issues, etc.) • Set up and break down the yard each day (equipment, water, cleanup) and flag any maintenance or safety issues. • Coordinate in real time with other departmental staff on the day's coverage needs. • Create daily playgroup schedule and assign staff in conjunction with relevant departments including but not limited to animal care

Core Responsibilities – Documentation and Communication

• Ensure promotion and video are taken in accordance with policy and uploaded the same day. • Enter behavior notes using objective language • Oversee the completion of the playgroup tracking spreadsheet • Keep walk sheets accurate and up to date for every dog handled during the shift. • Help keep pathway plans and program eligibility notes (e.g., foster, offsite adoption centers) current for dogs, flagging updates or concerns to a Behavior Coordinator. • Flag any dog whose behavior changes meaningfully during playgroup (new reactivity, sudden shutdown, injury, etc.) to a Behavior Coordinator or the Director of Medical & Behavior right away • Use the shelter's established behavior/playgroup terminology consistently so notes are useful to other staff, volunteers, and rescue partners reading them later.

Core Responsibilities – Safety. Handling and Training

• Use required safety equipment correctly. Train staff to use it safely and effectively as well. • Recognize when a dog is not appropriate for group play on a given day. • Escalate any dog showing signs it may be unsafe for playgroup long-term to a Behavior Coordinator or the Director of the department for pathway determinations. • Ensure playgroup equipment is available for all handlers and in good working order. Order supplies as needed • Oversee the training of new staff, from Level 0 to Level 4, ensuring playgroup is fun and safe for the dogs and the handlers Qualifications

• 3 years’ experience training, coaching and overseeing employees strongly preferred. This role does not directly supervisor staff but does require strong training and interpersonal skills to manage the program • Comfortable and confident handling dogs of unknown temperament in a group setting, including reading canine body language and stepping in before conflict escalates. • 5 years of experience with dog handling, dog walking, group play, or shelter/rescue animal care a must • Able to stay alert and physically active outdoors for extended shifts, in all but severe weather. • Reliable, punctual, and comfortable following documentation procedures consistently. • Clear communicator, able to flag concerns and dogs good for other programs including but not limited to foster, rescue, or offsite adoption center placement quickly and accurately. • Knowledge of how to safely break up a dog fight • Able to work with a variety of people and personalities in a very fast-paced environment • Sincere interest in the work, program, and mission of ACCT Philly.

Compensation: TBD

Introductory assessment period

Runs three months from the date of hire. Either the employee or ACCT Philly may end the employment relationship during this period without notice or prejudice.

Employment

Employment is at-will; no minimum period of employment is guaranteed or implied by acceptance of an offer. Either party may terminate employment at any time.