Program Director

Title: Program Director

Supervisor: Executive Director 

Under the guidance and supervision of the executive director, the Program Director is responsible for overseeing the WAGS service dog program, including, but not limited to, volunteers, clients, service dogs-in-training and working WAGS dogs, as well as other key resources related to the training program. Job duties will include supervising the training and administration of volunteers as well as key partners.

Key responsibilities for WAGS Program Director include:

Volunteer Training Program

• Recruit and screen potential volunteer trainers.
• Train, instruct and supervise volunteer trainers. 
• Oversee all aspects of training program, including skills training, behavior evaluation, veterinary care, training protocols and curriculum.
• Provide individual and group instruction to volunteers.
• Monitor and uphold WAGS training and behavioral standards.
• Provide appreciation and recognition to volunteer trainers.

Client Program

• Review applications for criteria as they are received.
• Conduct client home visits and provide client training.
• Conduct applicant interviews.
• Document placement process in line with program standards and procedures.
• Implement, monitor and report on the results of the placement process.
• Provide follow-up consultation for clients.
• Provide post placement training, team evaluation, and follow-up support.
• Utilize evaluation tools (surveys, focus groups) to measure performance outcomes.

Canine Resources

• Temperament test and select puppies for the WAGS program.
• Ensure dogs receive appropriate care (i.e., vaccinations, spay or neutering, treatment of problems, hip radiographs, etc.)
• Identify dogs for placement and decide when to release dogs from the program.
• Match applicants and dogs for placement and find homes for non-graduate dogs.
• Monitor canine training checkpoints and identify behavior problems.
• Ensure only dogs that meet WAGS quality standards are placed with clients and partners.
• Provide training as necessary to ensure the WAGS dog meets placement criteria.

Administration

• Design, implement, and report on the results of the following WAGS training programs:
• Volunteer Trainers
• Clients and Service Partners
• Service Dogs and Clinical Therapy Dogs
• Keep Executive Director informed on relevant issues.
• Work in tandem with the Executive Director on day-to-day operations. 
• Work effectively with fundraising, marketing and administrative staff to align marketing efforts with organizational mission, goals and advocacy initiatives. 
• Evaluate program results and make recommendations for improvement
• Prepare reports as requested for the Board of Directors.
• Other duties as assigned by the Executive Director.

Position Requirements

Minimum Qualifications:

• At least 2 years of experience teaching basic and intermediate level obedience and service dog skills. (Advanced experience is preferred)
• Demonstrated experience teaching and utilizing operant training and positive reinforcement methods. Understanding of force-free handling.
• Credible work experience, preferably in nonprofit organizations and a record of successful training experience will be considered.
• Ability to effectively and efficiently evaluate dog behavior and develop training plans to achieve desired behavior and skill outcomes.
• Strong communication skills. Must be able to provide constructive, effective and timely feedback to volunteers, and adjust coaching approach to best fit individual’s needs. Must also be able to receive feedback in a positive manner. Superior interpersonal skills; experience in cultivating and maintaining relationships with key constituencies.
• Positive attitude and strong problem solving skills.  
• Experience with public speaking.

If you’re passionate about making a difference in the lives of people and their future service and clinical therapy dogs, we’d love to hear from you. Email your resume and cover letter to info@wags.net.