Trainer

Job Title: Trainer

Location:  8232 Enon Drive, Roanoke, Virginia 24019

Reports to:  Training Manager

To Apply:  Send resume’ and cover letter to Deborah Duerk (dduerk@saintfrancisdogs.org)

Position Type:  Full-Time, Salaried, On-Site

Salary:  $25,000-35,000/year

WHO WE ARE

Saint Fra­ncis Service Dogs is an Assistance Dogs International Accredited non-profit organization whose mission is simple: to help people with disabilities achieve their goals and have greater independence through partnership with exceptional service and facility dogs.

We are committed to:

·        Focusing on high quality breeding, selection, and training that is personalized to ensure that each

dog is uniquely suited to their partner.

·        Providing initial training and ongoing support to each person or organization for the lifetime of the

partnership.

·        Ensuring that all dogs in our care find their best and highest purpose and live in a loving home that

suits their nature, temperament, and individual needs.

·        Promoting the use and acceptance of qualified service dogs through public and professional

education, providing advocacy for service dog partners, and supporting the growth of the service

dog industry.

We are based on a beautiful 18 acre farm in Roanoke, Virginia. We serve the entire state of Virginia and areas in West Virginia and North Carolina that are within a three hour drive from our facility.

WHAT WE DO

Saint Francis Service Dogs raises, trains and places exceptional dogs with extraordinary people. We are a human service organization deeply committed to helping people with disabilities better experience the world around them through a partnership with a service dog. In fulfillment of our mission, we operate two key services:

·        Placing service dogs with people with physical and developmental disabilities is our primary goal.

·        Placing facility dogs with handlers working in healthcare, education and courtroom settings is our

second service.

WHAT YOU’LL DO

Our dogs change lives in ways great and small. They are trained to complete tasks and skills to assist in the activities of daily living. In addition to the tangible benefits, the emotional bond between human and dog results in increased motivation and social interaction, higher self-esteem, and a greater sense of belonging. The peace of mind that comes from knowing that the dog can both provide physical assistance and seek help if needed is invaluable. A staff trainer’s role is crucial in creating and maintaining these successful partnerships for the people we serve.

Primary Responsibilities

·        Maintain a string of 5-6 dogs, overseeing daily care and training to ensure dogs are being trained to

the standard required for our program

·        Supervise foster families when housing dogs in training

·        Maintain each dog’s appearance by daily grooming

·        Exercise the dogs daily, or oversee volunteers

·        Complete monthly training and health paperwork on each dog

·        Coordinate with Kennel Manager for veterinary care

·        Clean training house and garage kennels

·        Assist with matching interviews

·        Assist with Certifications and Re-Certifications for Partner Teams

·        Assist with Candidate Class

·        Assist with Team Training

·        Represent Saint Francis at Presentations/Demo for Outreach and Public Relations when needed

·        Other duties assigned when necessary

WHAT YOU’LL NEED

At Saint Francis, we have a small, passionate staff dedicated to providing the highest level of service for the people we serve. We also have a lot of fun while we are doing it! We value a cooperative spirit, positive attitude, and willingness to learn and adapt to change.

Requirements

·        Strong background and experience in dog training

·        The physical stamina and ability to handle large breed dogs ranging in age from puppy to 3 years old

·        Excellent communication skills

·        Strong organizational skills and ability to keep accurate records

·        Ability to work independently

·        Ability to cultivate and keep a positive work environment

·        Dedication to helping people with disabilities

·        A true and deep love and compassion for dogs