Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT)

Humane Society for Southwest Washington•Vancouver, WA

87d•$30 - $36•Hybrid

About The Position

The Humane Society for Southwest Washington (HSSW) is seeking a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT) to join their team. This is a part-time, 20-25 hours per week position. HSSW is the largest and most innovative animal welfare organization in Southwest Washington, dedicated to keeping pets and people together through various services including veterinary care, training, and community resources. The organization operates with a high-energy, innovative culture where employees can make a significant difference in animal welfare. The CPDT will be instrumental in improving the well-being of dogs in their care and the community by developing and delivering behavior training programs, supporting adopted and fostered dogs, and assisting families in keeping their pets.

Requirements

Recognized certification in positive reinforcement dog training.
Proficiency in addressing behavioral challenges (e.g., reactivity, anxiety, resource guarding) and leading group training classes.
Strong ability to convey training concepts to diverse audiences in both individual and group settings.
Valid driver’s license with HSSW insurable driving record. (Motor Vehicle Records Check required)

Nice To Haves

Experience in positive reinforcement training.
Experience in program design.
Experience in group facilitation.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

Collaborate with the VP of Operations to design and implement education and behavior training programs aligned with HSSW’s mission and philosophy.
Plan and conduct group training sessions for the public, including puppy and adult dog classes, emphasizing positive reinforcement, socialization, and obedience.
Develop and deliver training plans to support families considering surrendering their dogs, reducing shelter intakes.
Provide tailored training and behavior support to adopters, ensuring successful transitions for dogs and families.
Create individualized training plans for foster caregivers to address behavioral challenges and improve dogs’ adoptability.
Communicate regularly with shelter staff and leadership, providing updates on training programs, foster dog progress, and post-adoption support.
Partner with marketing to create educational content for email, social media, and community outreach.

Benefits

Health insurance effective the first of the month following hire (full-time employees).
Dental and vision insurance effective the first of the month following hire.
Matching percentage 401(k) retirement plan beginning the first month after hire, with a 3-year graded vesting schedule and ROTH contribution option.
Employee Assistance Program (EAP) available to all employees and household members.
Section 125 FSA Cafeteria Plan for out-of-pocket health and/or dependent day care expenses.
Access to affordable life, disability, and accidental supplemental insurance.
Numerous employee discounts and discounts with partner organizations.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness qualified employer.
Paid Time Off (PTO) accrued at a rate of 2 hours for every 40 hours worked.
Floating Holidays (full-time employees).
Bereavement leave.
Pet bereavement leave.