Dog Trainer -Independent Contractor - LIC Facility

Second Chance Rescue Inc•New York, NY

10d•$50 - $51•Onsite

About The Position

The Dog Trainer is an independent contractor who visits the SCR LIC facility two to three times per week for two to three hours per visit, providing force-free behavior support and training for resident dogs. This hands-on role works directly with dogs in kennels, play areas, and on the treadmill, while coaching staff and volunteers to help maintain progress between visits. The focus is on larger dogs, dogs with resource guarding, and fearful or under-socialized dogs, using Fear Free or comparable low-stress, positive-reinforcement methods. The trainer coordinates closely with the Adoption Center Manager and behavior team to help dogs become more comfortable, adoptable, and safe to handle, and to support well-matched placements. The contractor provides their own training tools and equipment, except for SCR facility equipment such as the treadmill, carries their own insurance, and is responsible for their own taxes. A completed W-9 is required before the first payment. SCR may adjust the scope of services based on organizational needs by mutual agreement.

Requirements

Fear Free certification, such as Fear Free Certified Trainer or Fear Free Shelter Program, or an equivalent force-free certification or training background, such as CPDT-KA, KPA-CTP, CBCC-KA, or IAABC credentials.
At least 3 years of professional dog training experience, including demonstrated experience with larger breeds, resource guarding, and fearful or under-socialized dogs.
Working knowledge of canine body language, stress signals, and safe handling of dogs with a bite risk.
Experience with dog treadmill conditioning, or willingness to be trained on SCR's equipment and protocols.
A force-free, positive-reinforcement training philosophy and track record; aversive tools or methods are not permitted.
Ability to teach and coach staff and volunteers clearly and supportively.
Strong written and verbal communication skills and reliable documentation habits.
Comfort working professionally and calmly in a fast-paced, emotionally dynamic shelter environment.
Current general liability insurance covering professional dog training, or willingness to obtain it before starting.
Service-oriented mindset and commitment to SCR's mission and values.
Provide own training tools and equipment other than SCR facility equipment, carry own insurance, and be responsible for own taxes.
Submit a completed W-9 before the first payment.

Nice To Haves

Shelter or rescue experience is strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

Conduct individual training and behavior sessions with resident dogs, prioritizing larger dogs, dogs with resource guarding, and fearful or shy dogs.
Use Fear Free, force-free, low-stress methods such as positive reinforcement, counter-conditioning, desensitization, and choice-based handling; do not use aversive tools or methods.
Develop and carry out behavior modification plans for resource guarding, emphasizing safe management, prevention, and gradual training without confrontation.
Help fearful dogs build confidence and trust through gentle handling and gradual exposure to leash and harness use, kennels, cars, new people, and new environments.
Teach and reinforce basic manners and adoption-readiness skills, including leash walking, sit, settle, and polite greetings.
Use the treadmill for conditioning and exercise, introduce dogs to it safely, assess candidates, and help high-energy or large dogs exercise.
Observe dogs for stress, fear, pain, or escalating arousal, and adjust or stop sessions as needed to protect dogs and people.
Evaluate dogs on request and provide concise behavior observations to adoption, foster, and medical teams.
Recommend management strategies and placement considerations, including home type, adopter experience, and compatibility with other pets or children.
Promptly flag significant safety, medical, or welfare concerns to the Adoption Center Manager and appropriate leadership.
Model and teach staff and volunteers safe, low-stress handling and training techniques for larger, fearful, and resource-guarding dogs.
Train designated staff in safe treadmill use and identify dogs approved to use it.
Provide simple written or verbal plans for each dog, including do's and don'ts, triggers, and management tips, to support consistent care between visits.
Support staff in preventing negative animal interactions in line with SCR SOPs and behavior guidelines.
Document each session in designated SCR systems or logs, including the dog, goals, techniques, progress, and recommendations.
Share concise updates and, where appropriate, photos or videos with the Adoption Center Manager and behavior team in accordance with SCR privacy and brand guidelines.
Immediately report bites, injuries, or incidents and complete SCR incident reports as required.
Follow SCR SOPs, biosecurity and sanitation protocols, and on-site safety requirements.
Keep training areas and equipment, including the treadmill, clean, safe, and returned to their proper place after use.