Kennel Technician

Job Description: Kennel Technician – Behavior Focus

Xylose Dog Rescue & Training – Alpharetta, GA

About Us

Xylose Dog Rescue and Training is a behavior-focused rescue specializing in high-energy, working-breed dogs and complex behavioral cases. Our mission is to train, rehabilitate, and place dogs into safe, loving homes using positive-reinforcement, fear-free methods.

We are expanding and seeking a dedicated team member to support our dogs' daily care, enrichment, and behavior programs.

POSITION: Kennel Technician – Behavior Focus

Starting Pay: $21.50/hr
Part-Time or Full-Time | Must Have Shelter or Vet Clinic Experience

What You'll Do Animal Care & Enrichment

• Feed, water, and monitor dogs daily
• Clean kennels, crates, yards, and common areas
• Administer medications as needed (training provided)
• Prepare enrichment toys, puzzles, and sensory activities
• Assist with decompression routines for new intakes
• Observe and document behavior changes or concerns

Behavior Support

• Assist with reactivity, fear-based behavior, and confidence-building
• Participate in structured walks and training sessions
• Help with temperament tests and intake evaluations
• Safely handle high-drive, working breeds, and behaviorally challenged dogs
• Support trainers with behavior rehabilitation plans

Aggression & Safety Support

• Assist the rescue team with high-aggression or bite-quarantine dogs
• Follow strict safety protocols and handling procedures
• Maintain calm, controlled behavior around stressed or defensive dogs

Facility Cleanliness

• Maintain a clean, sanitary, and well-organized environment
• Perform laundry, dishes, disinfecting, and restocking
• Help maintain kennel flow and operational safety

Teamwork

• Communicate observations, needs, and updates clearly
• Assist with adoption events and meet-and-greets
• Work professionally with trainers, fosters, volunteers, and adopters

Required Qualifications Must-Have Experience

• Previous employment at a veterinary clinic or animal shelter
• Experience with animal handling, cleaning protocols, and basic medical monitoring

Physical & Skill Requirements

• Confident handling large breeds and high-energy working breeds
• Comfortable working with dogs showing fear, reactivity, or aggression
• Able to assist with high-aggression or bite-quarantine dogs
• Ability to safely lift and handle dogs ranging from 35 to 120 lbs
• Strong work ethic, reliability, and teamwork
• Ability to remain calm and safe in fast-paced or emotionally difficult situations
• Willingness to use positive-reinforcement & fear-free handling

Required Skills & Certifications

• Strong interest in dog behavior or training careers
• Experience with behavior or temperament evaluations
• Pet CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to complete within 60 days)
• Catch Pole Handling Certification (or willingness to obtain)
• Must know how to properly use a slip leash for safe and humane handling
• Must know how to use a treat pouch/bag and reward-based training tools

Schedule

• Morning and evening shifts available
• Weekends/holidays may be required
• Emergency on-call

Pay & Benefits

• Starting pay: $21.50 per hour
• Free staff training in behavior, handling, and enrichment
• Discounts on training, boarding, and merchandise
• Growth opportunities (Behavior Assistant → Trainer → Lead)
• Work with incredible dogs who truly need your help

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time, Temporary, Contract, Internship

Pay: $ $22.50 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Employee discount
• Flexible schedule
• Flexible spending