What are the responsibilities and job description for the Canine Nose Work Instructor - Dog Trainer position at Humane Society of Boulder Valley?
Opportunity – Canine Nose Work Instructor – Dog Trainer
The Human Society of Boulder Valley (HSBV) is seeking a Canine Nose Work Instructor to join the talented team of animal trainers and behavior consultants.
HSBV trainers and behavior consultants rely on positive, reward-based training techniques to encourage appropriate behavior and foster a foundation of trust and enjoyment. The Humane Society of Boulder Valley promotes force-free animal training and discourages the use of pain, fear, or coercion to modify or manage animal behavior. Our team exclusively uses and teaches reward-based, positive reinforcement training techniques. Canine group training classes are designed to align with HSBV training philosophies and our commitment to providing enthusiastic, fun, and engaging training sessions.
For this specialized role, the ideal candidate will be available to conduct evening and weekend classes. Dog trainers work part-time, and the class schedule can vary. Class registration is limited to 6 individuals (plus one animal) per training session. The number of classes offered per week can be determined by the trainer and their manager. Applications will be accepted through December 16, 2025, or until the position is filled. Applicants are encouraged to apply even if the application deadline has passed.
We encourage you to apply if you have experience that is transferable, even if it’s not a perfect match. We encourage applications from members of underrepresented groups including but not limited women, members of the LGBTQ community, people of color, people with disabilities, and veterans.
Job Summary
The Human Society of Boulder Valley (HSBV) is seeking a Canine Nose Work Instructor to join the talented team of animal trainers and behavior consultants.
HSBV trainers and behavior consultants rely on positive, reward-based training techniques to encourage appropriate behavior and foster a foundation of trust and enjoyment. The Humane Society of Boulder Valley promotes force-free animal training and discourages the use of pain, fear, or coercion to modify or manage animal behavior. Our team exclusively uses and teaches reward-based, positive reinforcement training techniques. Canine group training classes are designed to align with HSBV training philosophies and our commitment to providing enthusiastic, fun, and engaging training sessions.
For this specialized role, the ideal candidate will be available to conduct evening and weekend classes. Dog trainers work part-time, and the class schedule can vary. Class registration is limited to 6 individuals (plus one animal) per training session. The number of classes offered per week can be determined by the trainer and their manager. Applications will be accepted through December 16, 2025, or until the position is filled. Applicants are encouraged to apply even if the application deadline has passed.
We encourage you to apply if you have experience that is transferable, even if it’s not a perfect match. We encourage applications from members of underrepresented groups including but not limited women, members of the LGBTQ community, people of color, people with disabilities, and veterans.
Job Summary
- Provides instruction following the training curriculum; may participate in developing new or amending existing content.
- Trains clients to practice and use force-free methods of dog training and handling.
- Promotes HSBV private consultation services; refers clients as appropriate.
- Provides training, support and encouragement to volunteers assisting the dog training program.
- Prepares the training environment for class; allows sufficient time to begin classes as scheduled.
- Delivers class homework and follow-up materials to class participants timely.
- Tracks and monitors class attendance. Creates and issues graduation certificates and ensures class materials are available.
- Maintains the cleanliness of the training environment before, during, and after classes. Notifies the supervisor when supplies or equipment are low or in need of maintenance.
This job summary is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee for this role. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time, with or without notice.
What We Offer
The anticipated pay range for this position is $20.00 - $25.00 per hour. There is an additional $2.00 per hour paid for time worked on weekends. A class bonus is also offered and will be based on class attendance or enrollment.
This pay rate and additional compensation is the Humane Society of Boulder Valley’s best estimate for this role. The actual hourly rate will be based on factors including but not limited to the depth and extent of relevant experience, additional training or certifications for preferred skills and education. Part-time employees working variable hours or regularly scheduled to work less than 20 hours per week are eligible for the following benefits package:
What We Offer
The anticipated pay range for this position is $20.00 - $25.00 per hour. There is an additional $2.00 per hour paid for time worked on weekends. A class bonus is also offered and will be based on class attendance or enrollment.
This pay rate and additional compensation is the Humane Society of Boulder Valley’s best estimate for this role. The actual hourly rate will be based on factors including but not limited to the depth and extent of relevant experience, additional training or certifications for preferred skills and education. Part-time employees working variable hours or regularly scheduled to work less than 20 hours per week are eligible for the following benefits package:
- Paid sick leave
- Retirement plan options
- Discounts on adoptions, pet food, pet supplies, veterinary care, and training services
- Complimentary pet boarding
- HSBV participates in Colorado’s Family and Medical Leave Insurance program
Qualifications
Up-to-date dog training certification required (CPDT-KA, KPA-CTP, CTC, CBCC, Pat Miller). Certification as a nose work instructor (CNWI or ANWI) or actively pursuing certification is preferred. Prior experience teaching group training classes preferred, and previous experience teaching/conducting nose work classes desired. A pre-employment background and drug screen are required of all employment candidates.
Knowledge and Skills
Excellent interpersonal and oral communication skills. Creative and innovative teaching style with ability to speak effectively before groups of people. Strong organizational and planning skills; ability to work collaboratively in a dynamic team environment. Curious about new and evolving methods of force-free animal behavior training and willing to grow knowledge base. Demonstrated ability to effectively manage animals in group settings. Computer literacy in a Windows environment preferred.
Working Conditions
Work is performed in a shelter environment in a space designed for animal training. Exposure to animals and cleaning agents. Subject to animal bites and scratches when handling animals of questionable temperament. Occasional lifting of up to 50 pounds with assistance. Able to sustain 3–4-hour work shifts spent standing, walking, bending, twisting, and lifting.
About the Humane Society of Boulder Valley
The Humane Society of Boulder Valley is a community-supported, open-door facility that provides shelter, medical care, and behavioral rehabilitation to nearly 5,000 animals annually. Its programs are inspired by its mission to protect and enhance the lives of companion animals by promoting healthy relationships between pets and people. Since its inception in 1902, the Humane Society of Boulder Valley has become one of the most recognized nonprofit organizations in the community and a national leader in animal welfare.
The Humane Society of Boulder Valley offers equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants and employees without regard to an individual’s race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, age, national origin, disability, genetic information, ancestry, military status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local laws.
Up-to-date dog training certification required (CPDT-KA, KPA-CTP, CTC, CBCC, Pat Miller). Certification as a nose work instructor (CNWI or ANWI) or actively pursuing certification is preferred. Prior experience teaching group training classes preferred, and previous experience teaching/conducting nose work classes desired. A pre-employment background and drug screen are required of all employment candidates.
Knowledge and Skills
Excellent interpersonal and oral communication skills. Creative and innovative teaching style with ability to speak effectively before groups of people. Strong organizational and planning skills; ability to work collaboratively in a dynamic team environment. Curious about new and evolving methods of force-free animal behavior training and willing to grow knowledge base. Demonstrated ability to effectively manage animals in group settings. Computer literacy in a Windows environment preferred.
Working Conditions
Work is performed in a shelter environment in a space designed for animal training. Exposure to animals and cleaning agents. Subject to animal bites and scratches when handling animals of questionable temperament. Occasional lifting of up to 50 pounds with assistance. Able to sustain 3–4-hour work shifts spent standing, walking, bending, twisting, and lifting.
About the Humane Society of Boulder Valley
The Humane Society of Boulder Valley is a community-supported, open-door facility that provides shelter, medical care, and behavioral rehabilitation to nearly 5,000 animals annually. Its programs are inspired by its mission to protect and enhance the lives of companion animals by promoting healthy relationships between pets and people. Since its inception in 1902, the Humane Society of Boulder Valley has become one of the most recognized nonprofit organizations in the community and a national leader in animal welfare.
The Humane Society of Boulder Valley offers equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants and employees without regard to an individual’s race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, age, national origin, disability, genetic information, ancestry, military status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local laws.
Salary : $20 - $25