What are the responsibilities and job description for the Dog Handler-Pet Camp (San Francisco) position at Pet Camp?
Full-time & Part-time | Starting at $20/hour DOE | Clear growth path
Pet Camp, San Francisco’s most established and award‑winning pet care facility, is hiring a Dog Handler to work with dogs in both group daycare and more individualized enrichment settings. This role is ideal for newer handlers and those with some professional dog experience who want to grow into enrichment and behavior-focused work.
What You’ll Do
- Supervise dogs in indoor and outdoor play areas and keep interactions safe and positive
- Run small, well-matched playgroups and enrichment sessions
- Read canine body language and step in early to prevent conflicts
- Engage dogs through play, basic training games, and sensory activities
- Provide basic grooming (bathing, brushing, nail trims) as needed
- Feed, administer medications, and follow special care instructions
- Keep play areas and sleeping quarters clean and sanitized
- Communicate with pet parents about their dog’s day
- Assist with check-in/check-out and basic wellness checks
What We’re Looking For
- Genuine love for dogs and comfort with the physical, sometimes messy nature of the work
- Experience in daycare, boarding, training, shelter, vet clinic, or similar preferred, but not required
- Ability to confidently handle dogs of different sizes, breeds, and temperaments (we’ll train you to build this)
- Strong interest in learning canine body language, enrichment, and behavior
- Clear communication skills and a dependable, team-oriented work style
- Willingness to work some weekends and holidays
Growth Path
We invest in training and offer a clear progression for strong performers, for example:
- Dog Handler (starting at $20/hour DOE)
- Senior Dog Handler / Enrichment Handler (higher pay, more responsibility)
- Enrichment / Behavior Lead or specialized “Ranger Station” roles
As you build skills in handling, enrichment, and behavior, you’ll have opportunities to move into more advanced roles with increased pay and responsibility.
Pay & Benefits
- Starting at $20/hour, depending on experience
- Pay review after 90 days
- Health, dental, and vision insurance for eligible employees
- 401(k) retirement plan and profit sharing
- Land’s End uniform allowance
- Free and discounted boarding and retail discounts
- Continuing education support in the pet care industry
- Ability to bring your own dog to work (subject to compatibility and guidelines)
To apply: Please submit your resume and a brief note about your dog-handling experience (or why you want to start in this field) and why you’re a great fit for Pet Camp’s Dog Handler role.
Pay: From $21.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Employee discount
- Flexible schedule
- Health insurance
- On-the-job training
- Opportunities for advancement
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
- Vision insurance
Application Question(s):
- Are you able and willing to work weekends and major holidays as needed?
- Do you have any previous professional animal experience?
- Tell us why you want to work as a dog handler
License/Certification:
- California driver's license (Preferred)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $20 - $21