Job Title: Dog Training Specialist

Summary: This position is responsible for facilitating training and education for handlers and dogs in the Duo Dogs Obedience and Touch Therapy Programs following the organization’s methodology and curriculum. This highly skilled professional can identify problem behaviors, provide standard and creative solutions for dogs and handlers, and can work both independently and with other Duo team members. This position will report to the Chief Program Officer.

Employee Standards To be followed by all employees of Duo Dogs, Inc.

• Successfully completes background check
• Abides by all policies and procedures of Duo Dogs
• Performs all duties of this position in a timely and professional manner
• Demonstrates the highest degree of professionalism in all interactions with other staff, clients, volunteers, donors, contractors and any others involved with Duo
• Understands and supports the organization’s mission, philosophy and vision

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Canine Training and Education

• Train canines in accordance with Duo Dogs guidelines using positive reinforcement
• Instruct group obedience classes and administer obedience evaluations as an AKC approved evaluator
• Administer temperament evaluations
• Complete ongoing training documentation as required by Duo Dogs

General

• Complete all paperwork in a timely manner and in accordance with Duo Dogs’ standards
• Follow Duo Dogs’ training methodology communicating any concerns or issues with the appropriate leadership staff
• Complete administrative tasks associated with class registrations, weekly training, and class completion
• Coordinate with other trainers to ensure all scheduled classes have adequate training representation
• Participate in educational activities, which promote professional growth and development of new ideas for obedience training, as funding is available
• Perform other duties as assigned

WORK HOURS: This is a full-time non-exempt position scheduled at 40 hours per week. The work schedule may include evenings and/or weekends.

QUALIFICATIONS: 1-3 years of experience in dog training and group training classes. Expertise in marker and positive reinforcement training. Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner (KPA CTP) preferred. Experience in instructing general group obedience classes. Knowledge of applied animal behavior and behavior modification. Knowledge of all equipment and training tools. Excellent verbal and nonverbal communication skills. High level of patience and demonstrated experience in creative solutioning.

Must be able to lift and carry a minimum of twenty-five (25) pounds.

Unique Skills or Abilities: Ability to instruct individuals with a variety of backgrounds and skill levels. Ability to learn and manage a variety of administrative processes. Competent in working independently and as part of a team as situations dictate. In addition, the individual must have the ability to communicate effectively with a diverse range of people.

Special Personality Traits: Ability to work with staff and volunteers diplomatically, while showing a high degree of professionalism. Honest, flexible, and hard working. Willingness to accept and adapt change, reorder priorities, manage several projects simultaneously, and work as a team member. Ability to maintain complete confidentiality. Internal and external customer oriented. Detail oriented, ability to organize and prioritize, and complete tasks with an assigned timeframe. Ability to communicate both orally and in written form in a positive, effective manner.

Degree of Responsibility or Supervision: Ability to perform accurately and efficiently under pressure in multifaceted role. Must work independently to produce results that meet deadlines.

The statements presented in this job description are intended to describe the general nature and level of work to be performed by the individual assigned to this position. These statements do not constitute an inclusive list of duties and responsibilities associated with this position.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $19.50 - $20.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Compensation package:

• Hourly pay

Schedule:

• Evening shift
• Weekends as needed

Experience:

• Professional Dog Training: 2 years (Required)

Work Location: In person