Animal Trainer - Full Time

PASADENA HUMANE SOCIETY•Pasadena, CA

11d

About The Position

The Animal Trainer, under the supervision of the Animal Training Manager, supports Pasadena Humane’s mission by working collaboratively with pet guardians to strengthen and preserve the human–animal bond. Through science-based, humane training and effective people-coaching skills, the Animal Trainer helps families better understand and care for their dogs and cats. The Animal Training department works closely with other Pasadena Humane departments to provide critical behavioral support, including assistance to foster parents, post-adoption behavior support, and fee-waived training opportunities through the Helping Paws Community Resources program. The Animal Trainer will be responsible for preparing, assisting with, and conducting a wide range of animal training programs, which may include offsite community events, staff and volunteer training, helpline phone consultations, virtual and in-person public classes, webinars, private consultations, and special promotional events. In all aspects of the role, the Animal Trainer will apply their knowledge of learning theory, evidence-based training methods, and compassionate communication to support positive outcomes for animals and the people who care for them, in alignment with Pasadena Humane’s mission, values, and philosophies.

Requirements

Minimum high school graduate (or GED/proficiency certificate).
At least 18 years of age at time of appointment.
Candidates must hold at least one of the listed credentials at the time of hire or successfully obtain one within the first six (6) months of employment.
CPDT-KA/KSA, CBCC-KA, KPA-CTP, IAABC-ADT, IAABC-CDBC, IAABC-CCBC, IAABC-SBA, IAABC- CSB‑D/CSB‑C
Proven experience observing body language and handling animals using LIFE/Fear Free methods.
Previous experience assisting or teaching group classes is required
Must possess strong people-coaching and teaching skills and the ability to apply animal behavior and learning theory in practice.
Must be comfortable with coaching adopters including identifying and speaking about complex behaviors, speaking about relinquishment and/or behavioral euthanasia
Must possess ability to listen empathetically to needs of clients and adopters
Ability to assess and determine if an animal is appropriate for group classes is required.
Adept at listening to clients’ and volunteers’ needs and be able to apply their teaching skills to people as well as animals.
Knowledge of and ability to safely use training equipment including long-line leashes in a skilled manner is required. Candidate must be able to work within the confines of established curriculum and protocols as well as offer creative ideas to grow the Animal Training Department.
Proficient in computer applications including Microsoft 365 and email. Experience with Chameleon, Shelterluv, Kustomer, and/or VolunteerMatters a plus.
Must be prepared to handle and work with a variety of animals of various breeds and sizes and exhibiting a variety of behaviors, including those with challenges.
Strong sense of professional judgment and ability to maintain confidentiality.
Must be able to model Pasadena Humane’s Core Values of Learning, Integrity Collaboration and Kindness.
Must interact positively with supervisor, management, coworkers, volunteers, and the public to promote a team effort and maintain a positive and professional approach.
Must be able to work independently with minimal supervision.
Must provide positive, proactive customer service
Must have a positive attitude and a sense of humor

Nice To Haves

Previous experience working in an animal shelter and familiarity with shelter animal behavior is strongly preferred.
Bilingual a plus (Armenian, Spanish, Mandarin, and/or Cantonese).

Responsibilities

Develop, write, and deliver science-based, humane training curricula for dogs and cats, instructing and assisting with classes ranging from basic to advanced skill levels using LIFE (Least Intrusive, Functionally Effective) principles.
Provide post-adoption guidance and behavior support to adopters, foster parents, and community members, including fee-waived training opportunities through the Helping Paws Community Resources program.
Conduct private pet behavior consultations, both in-person and virtual, applying learning theory and evidence-based training methods.
Collaborate closely with other Pasadena Humane departments to support foster programs, adoption success, and positive outcomes for animals in care and in the community.
Ensure a positive, inclusive, and educational customer service experience with the goal of increasing access to resources, educating the public, and keeping animals in homes whenever appropriate.
Represent Pasadena Humane professionally while addressing participant questions or concerns and assisting with the resolution of customer complaints.
Prepare training spaces by setting up, breaking down, cleaning, and organizing classrooms and equipment to ensure a safe and welcoming learning environment.
Maintain department equipment and supplies in good working condition and report repair or replacement needs to supervisory staff.
Train, support, and collaborate with class volunteers, including developing and maintaining volunteer training protocols.
Participate in off-site community events, special programs, writing, or creation of educational or promotional materials as requested by the Animal Training Manager.
Maintain positive, respectful, and collaborative relationships with staff and volunteers across all departments.
Demonstrate a high level of empathy, emotional intelligence, and strong people-coaching skills when working with pet guardians, recognizing the stress and challenges that can accompany behavior concerns.
Uphold Pasadena Humane’s mission, values, and philosophies and contribute to a culture of philanthropy and community engagement.
Follow all safety protocols, maintain a safe working environment, and actively participate in Pasadena Humane’s safety programs.
Work collaboratively as part of the Animal Training team and with departmental leadership on special projects and initiatives.
Perform other duties as assigned.