Dog Training Class Instructor

Nebraska Humane • Omaha, NE

6d

About The Position

The Dog Training Class Instructor works in the Training department and reports to the Director of Community Training. The position instructs public dog training classes that focus exclusively on positive reinforcement methods, including adult and puppy classes offered through the Nebraska Humane Society. The instructor monitors supplies and handouts in training areas, alerts the Director when supplies are low, and performs other job-related duties assigned by the Director.

The work involves interacting with dogs, their owners, employees, volunteers, and customers in a shelter setting. Conditions may include barking or whining animals, unpredictable animal reactions, seasonal temperature variation, and potential exposure to zoonotic diseases and hazardous chemicals. The instructor must be able to work around animals without severe allergic reactions. Work outside the shelter may involve environmental hazards such as fallen tree limbs, storms, or snow and ice; issues must be reported promptly to the direct supervisor. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Requirements

• At least 1 year of experience in direct dog training instruction.
• At least 1 year of customer service experience.
• Understanding of basic animal behavior and body language, with strong dog-handling skills.
• Knowledge of the items on the Canine Good Citizen test.
• Knowledge of effective positive training techniques, applications, and tools.
• Strong desire to train people as well as animals, with a creative and positive attitude toward working with people and their dogs.
• Adherence to high ethical standards; trustworthiness; maturity and sound independent judgment; and a professional manner and appearance.
• Ability to communicate clearly verbally and in writing.
• Valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record and proof of vehicle insurance.
• Comfort and skill working with culturally diverse staff and community members.
• Considerate, respectful, and helpful demeanor toward employees, volunteers, and customers.
• Ability to work cordially, safely, and efficiently in fast-paced, stressful conditions.
• Ability to cope with animal death due to illness, injury, or euthanasia.
• Ability to exhibit the organization’s core values: compassion for all animals, respect and dignity for all, striving for excellence, and teamwork.
• Ability to handle animals safely and humanely.
• Ability to respectfully give and receive feedback.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to work in close proximity to others.
• Ability to work around animals without severe allergic reactions.

Nice To Haves

• Canine Good Citizen Evaluator qualification.
• CPDT (Certified Pet Dog Trainer) or comparable certification.

Responsibilities

• Lead adult and puppy classes offered through the Nebraska Humane Society.
• Monitor supplies and handouts in all training areas and notify the Director of Community Training when supplies are low.
• Perform other job-related duties as assigned by the Director of Community Training.
• Report environmental issues encountered during work outside the shelter to the direct supervisor.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Education Level: No Education Listed