Canine Companion Specialist (Recreation Aide) Temporary

About Us

Tallahassee, a diverse community of nearly 200,000 residents, is the state capital and home to Florida A&M University, Florida State University, and Tallahassee State College. It is known for its national forest, freshwater lakes, and abundant parks and recreational activities. Located in the north-central portion of the state of Florida.

The City, as an organization, has a devoted workforce of approximately 4,000 people who come together to ensure the needs of the community are met through municipal services. These services include Police, Fire, Utilities (electric, gas, water, wastewater, stormwater), Parks and Recreation, Aviation-Tallahassee International Airport, and general municipal services. The City's mission is to be the national leader in the delivery of public service.

The City of Tallahassee's workforce is our communitys lifeblood, we offer diverse career opportunities, a positive work-life balance, competitive compensation, exceptional wellness programs, and comprehensive benefits, all of which position us to be the premier employer of choice for this area.

Apply On Or Before

This is a continuous job posting . Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis and applicants will be reviewed and hired as positions become available

Department Name

Parks Recreation & Neighborhood Affairs

Job Specifications

Do you have experience handling, walking, or training dogs, particularly large and strong breeds? Are you passionate about animal welfare and comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions? If so, we invite you to apply for our Canine Companion Specialist position.

This position provides hands-on experience working with dogs while supporting Animal Services operations. The ideal candidate is confident handling large dogs, knowledgeable about canine behavior, and capable of working independently in a fast-paced environment.

The Canine Companion Specialist is responsible for providing safe, structured exercise, socialization, and enrichment opportunities for shelter dogs. This position primarily focuses on dog walking and assisting with canine playgroups, while occasionally facilitating enrichment activities that support the physical, mental, and behavioral well-being of dogs in the shelters care. Through regular exercise and positive interactions, the Canine Companion Specialist helps improve quality of life, reduce kennel stress, and promote adoptability for shelter dogs.

Prior experience in dog handling, walking, training, animal care, veterinary services, kennels, shelters, dog daycare facilities, or related fields.

Experience working with large, strong, or behaviorally challenging dogs preferred.

Strong understanding of canine behavior, body language, and safe handling techniques.

Excellent observation, communication, and customer service skills.

Ability to remain calm and confident in a variety of animal-handling situations.

Minimum Requirements

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Ability to safely handle dogs weighing up to 100 pounds.
• Ability to walk approximately 30,000 steps per day while working in various weather conditions.
• Ability to work efficiently and independently with minimal supervision.
• Ability to manage multiple dogs while maintaining safety and control.
• Valid drivers license preferred.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Walk, exercise, and provide enrichment activities for shelter dogs of various sizes, breeds, and temperaments.
• Safely handle dogs weighing up to 100 pounds.
• Observe and interpret canine body language and behavior to ensure safe interactions and identify potential concerns.
• Maintain kennels, play yards, equipment, and animal care areas in a clean and sanitary condition.
• Support animal socialization, behavioral development, and adoption readiness efforts.
• Monitor animal health and behavior and report concerns to supervisory staff.
• Ensure the safety of animals, staff, volunteers, and visitors at all times.
• Work independently while effectively managing multiple dogs and competing priorities.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, lift, and perform physically demanding tasks for extended periods.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Ability to work outdoors in heat, cold, rain, humidity, and other weather conditions.
• Ability to tolerate animal noise, odors, and exposure to cleaning products.

If youre passionate about animal welfare, enjoy working outdoors, and have the skills and confidence to work with dogs of all sizes, wed love to hear from you. Join us in making a positive impact on the lives of shelter animals and the community we serve.

For the complete job specification, listing essential duties and desirable qualifications, go to http://www.talgov.com/employment/hr-job-descriptions.aspx

Minimum Training & Experience

Ability to follow oral and written instructions and carry out assigned tasks.

Necessary Special Requirements

Certification or licensing may be required for designated positions in this classification.

Salary Range

$15.00 to $80.00/ per hour, dependent upon qualifications and placement.

Additional Information

Specific Requirements:

Must be 18+

Ability to walk approximately 30,000 steps per day in various weather conditions

Strong understanding of canine behavior & body language

How To Apply

Visit Talgov.com/Employment click on the 'Apply Today' button, then navigate to 'My Job Applications' icon, and create an account. Only online applications will be accepted for this vacancy. Remember, you must complete all sections of the application, including the education and work history section, even if this information is included on your resume.

If you have any questions regarding this position or the application process, please contact the City's Human Resources and Workforce Development Department at 850-891-8214.

Equal Opportunity Employer:

The City of Tallahassee is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to promoting equity and celebrating diversity. The City of Tallahassee invites applications without regard to an individual's race, color, gender, religion, national origin, age, disability, marital status, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, or any other characteristics protected by law.

Veterans' Preference:

Certain service members and veterans, and the spouses of the service members and veterans, will receive preference and priority, and certain service members may be eligible to receive waivers for postsecondary educational requirements. For information on who may be eligible for Veterans Preference, go to http://floridavets.org/benefits-services/veterans-preference/, or call Human Resources & Workforce Development at (850) 891-8214.To claim Veterans Preference, applicants must upload a DD-214 (and other documentation, as applicable) with their online application prior to the closing date of the job opening.

Accommodation for Persons with a Disability:

If you require an accommodation, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act, please contact the City's ADA Coordinator, in the Office of Diversity & Inclusion, at 850-891-8950 or at TLHADA@talgov.com Monday through Friday, between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., or TDD 711, at least 48 hours, (excluding weekends and holidays), prior to the application deadline.