k-9 TRAINER

Role and Responsibilities
Under the direction of the Service Dog Training manager and general supervision of the assigned Lead K9 Trainer, the K9 Trainer is responsible for independently implementing all elements of assistance dog training, including reading canine body language, training procedures, environmental awareness, application of learning theory and related modalities, use of training equipment, training task skills, canine evaluation, assessment and reporting.

Essential Functions and Duties
• Independently modify assigned dogs’ behavior, train specific service dog tasks and basic, intermediate, and advanced obedience.

• Maintain detailed training, evaluation, behavior modification and medical records as per policies and procedures

• Analyze and assess individual dogs; execute a tailored training program

• Provide public access exposure to service dogs in training that include shopping centers, restaurants, sporting events, crowded city environments, parades, etc.

• Assist in the care and health of the dogs which consists of training, feeding, breaking, bathing, exercising, enriching, and medicating dogs

• Participate in team training activities to include impulse control, time outs, quiet kennels, temperament testing, group walks and continuing education sessions

• Coordinate, run and supervise dog playgroups; evaluate dog’s stress levels, monitor for rude or aggressive behavior; identify when to and how to interrupt inappropriate play

• Identifying the correct service dog for the veteran, initial dog pairing, provide training assistance through transference

• Transport dogs as required

• Perform daily, weekly, and monthly cleaning of training equipment, vehicles and on campus training areas

• Perform daily cleaning of kennels and kennel area

• Participate in public relations presentations and demonstrations to show how Service Dogs provide assistance to veterans who have PTSD, TBI, or MST in addition to promoting the mission and encouraging donations

• Must be able to work independently with little or no supervision and handle oneself in a professional matter at all times
Other Duties

• Perform any other duties as assigned by supervisor or management

Qualifications

• H.S. diploma or equivalent

• 1 year of professional animal training experience preffered

• Experience working with both purpose bred and shelter dogs preferred

• Ability to prioritize and handle multiple tasks

• Good communication skills

• Comfortable with being photographed, filmed and other interactions with media

• Valid Driver’s license required

• Kennel experience preferred

• Values continuous learning and seeks ongoing training and development

Physical Demands

• Walk 3 to 5 miles per day on average

• Ability to train dogs in crowded environments on campus and in public

• Ability to exert a moderate to extensive amount of physical effort, including stooping, crouching, pushing, pulling, walking stairs, climbing, and lifting up to fifty (50) pounds individually. Exposure to unpleasant odors, sounds chemicals, loud noises, and inclement weather.

***PLEASE SEND RESUME AND COVER LETTER ATTN. K-9 TRAINER TO: