Dog Trainer

Peninsula Humane Society & Spca • Saratoga, CA

265d • $31 - $31

About The Position

The Peninsula Humane Society & SPCA (PHS/SPCA) is a local, private, non-profit charitable organization dedicated to animal welfare. It is our mission to build healthy relationships between people and animals. PHS/SPCA is truly an open admission shelter, not only accepting many pet animals who might be refused at other shelters, but also taking care of injured and orphaned native wildlife from San Francisco through San Mateo and the northern half of Santa Clara County. Our work means 6,300 lives saved each year. Our Behavior Department uses positive reinforcement training techniques only. The position of Public Dog Trainer is part-time, requiring 5-7 hours per week, with a starting salary of $31.25 per hour (DOE).

Requirements

• Must pass a background check upon hire.
• Bachelor's degree (B.A.) from four-year college or university; or one to two years related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum of 2 years dog training experience with positive reinforcement training techniques.
• Trainer certification (APDT, CPDT, IAABC, etc.) and/or knowledge of or experience teaching Dog Agility preferred.
• Customer service and previous animal handling and behavior experience.
• Ability to work well with and communicate effectively both orally and in writing with the public, staff and volunteers.
• Must possess excellent written and verbal communication skills, outstanding customer service skills, and be reliable with a strong work ethic.
• Must be available to facilitate class on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 5:30pm-8:00pm.
• Comfortable assisting clients with common behavior issues such as housetraining, separation anxiety, dog-dog reactivity, and fear.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in teaching Dog Agility.
• Ability to assist clients with common behavior issues.

Responsibilities

• Work with puppies and adult dogs on basic and advanced obedience in a class and playgroup environment.
• Lead classes consisting of up to 8 clients and/or puppy playgroups consisting of up to 15 puppies.
• Conduct all classes and consults using positive reinforcement training techniques.
• Demonstrate flexibility according to the specific requirements for individual classes and/or clients.
• Conduct all classes and consults in a professional manner.
• Enthusiastically lead a dog training class or puppy playgroup to keep clients motivated and engaged.
• Demonstrate knowledge of appropriate puppy play styles and explain to owners about appropriate play.
• Communicate with Department staff and/or Lead Trainer on issues related to scheduling, client concerns, curricula, etc.
• Solicit feedback from clients as appropriate.
• Attend and participate in mandatory trainings and Department meetings as needed.
• Ensure work environment is maintained in a neat, clean and safe manner before and after each class.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Free vaccines, spay/neuter, microchipping, and two pet adoptions for employees with pets.
• Discounted euthanasia services/cremation, bloodwork, urinalysis, prescription food, and discounts at retail stores.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Religious, Grantmaking, Civic, Professional, and Similar Organizations
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree