BREEDING MANAGER
Position Summary
The breeding program manager is responsible for management and oversight of all aspects of organizational breeding operations. Performs complex and diverse duties to guarantee reliable, ongoing production of high quality puppies. Develops and implements systems that will maintain a robust breeding colony. Recruits, develops, and manages breeding support staff. Implements continuous genetic improvement of the breeding colony through the collection and analysis of key data and utilization of estimated breeding values (EBVs). Oversees recruitment and development of qualified volunteer breeder host and litter host homes.
SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES:
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Recruit, mentor, develop, and successfully manage qualified breeding support staff in order to achieve strategic objectives and meet ongoing programmatic needs.
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Oversee collection and storage of veterinary and temperament data in the IWDR database for dogs in all phases of the program.
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Develop the use of estimated breeding values to inform selection of breeding stock and mate pair selection.
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Select high quality replacement breeders through careful analysis of all available temperament, veterinary, and phenotype data.
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Develop a breeding strategy that applies selective pressure to significantly reduce or eliminate undesirable traits in program dogs.
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Regularly communicate key metrics related to health and temperament of program dogs to program leadership, including recommendations for prioritization and implementation of strategies to address trends of concern.
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Ensure sufficient production of puppies to meet current and forecasted capacities in puppy raising, breeding, and advanced training operations.
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Develop relationships with partner organizations and private breeders that will mutually benefit the breeding goals of the Foundation and its partners.
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Maintain a program for recruitment, selection and orientation of breeder host homes, both inside and outside the puppy raiser community.
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Ensure the update and maintenance of all pertinent medical records on breeding, whelping, neonatal and breeding stock care.
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Attend whelps including participating as overnight whelping team as needed.
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Maintain and update procedure manual and reference library.
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Oversee physical and social care of puppies until they are transferred to the puppy transition center or volunteer raiser homes.
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Research and implement best practices to facilitate early social and environmental exposures of puppies prior to placement in puppy homes.
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Serve as Foundation representative to participate in activities such as speaking engagements, attending conferences, field trips and giving tours to visitors.
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Work on special projects as assigned by the Chief Canine Care Officer.
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Always aware of safety rules and procedures, ensuring that the functions of this job are done in the safest possible manner and encourages staff and co-workers to do likewise.
POSITION REQUIREMENTS:
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Strong leadership qualities, including the character, experience, wisdom, and discernment needed to build trust and influence with direct reports, peers, and organizational leadership.
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Master’s degree in animal breeding, data analytics, computational biology, or similar field from an accredited college or university, or equivalent combination professional experience is strongly preferred
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Proficiency in canine handling, behavior, and care using positive reinforcement methods, typically gained by 5-7 years’ experience in training, veterinary or kennel position.
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Expertise in the development and implementation of staff educational programs, and ability to positively influence the professional development of direct reports
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Preference will be given to applicants with experience using positive reinforcement techniques to modify problematic behavior.
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A minimum of three years’ supervisory experience is desirable.
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Must demonstrate sound judgment, strong communications and team-building skills and the ability to make timely and prudent decisions.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
Physical Demands:
The employee is required to:
Withstand repetitive bending, kneeling and squatting
-stand, walk, push, pull, reach overhead and bend to the floor
-drive car, van or bus
-lift up to 15 lb. pups regularly and up to 75 lb. dogs occasionally
-exert 20 to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or
-exert 10 to 25 pounds of force frequently and/or
-exert up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects.
Visual Acuity: Near acuity and accommodation are required for ability to see and read dog’s reaction to environment and distractions, ability to read forms, documentation and computer screens.
Hearing Acuity: Ability to interact with dog, trainers, students, volunteers and puppy walkers either in an informal way or giving formal instruction through seminar and training exercises.
Working Conditions: The employee is subject to daily outside elements as well as inside kennel and nursery noise. Employee is exposed to cleaning and antibacterial solutions in kennel. Employee is exposed to animal dander, hair and fluids in confined areas such as vans and kennels.
To apply, please send email to Leddy at: Leddy@guidedog.org