Prison Program Certificate Coordinator
About The Position
The Prison Program Certificate Coordinator will oversee programs in eight to ten correctional facilities, supporting more than 150 incarcerated participants and managing the developmental progression of dogs through each certification stage. This position serves as the central point of coordination between correctional partners, internal Canine Companions departments, volunteers, and community finishers. This role is essential to implementing a tiered certification pathway for incarcerated adults, increasing program participation, strengthening dog development outcomes, and expanding the national impact of prison-raised service dogs.
Requirements
- 2-3 years of experience working with dog training, animal welfare, or service dog programs
- Strong organizational and data-tracking skills
- Ability to manage multiple facilities, timelines, and stakeholders simultaneously
- Strong communication, mentorship, and problem-solving skills
- Valid driver’s license and ability to travel extensively within the region
Nice To Haves
- Experience working in or with correctional, nonprofit, or structured institutional environments preferred
- Familiarity with LIMA training practices preferred
Responsibilities
- Oversee daily operations of all prison-based puppy raising and training programs across South Central Region
- Serve as the primary liaison between correctional facilities and Canine Companions
- Track certification progress, assessments, exams, and practical evaluations for all participants, maintain individualized timelines for incarcerated participants and dogs
- Monitor each dog’s developmental journey from puppy placement through release to finisher or professional training, ensure all medical, grooming, and animal welfare standards are met
- Support incarcerated participants in mentorship roles within intermediate and advanced stages, provide guidance on training plans, cue development, cooperative care, and behavior management
- Maintain accurate records of participant certifications, exams, and practical evaluations, track dog outcomes, training milestones, and placement results, provide reports to regional leadership demonstrating program growth, outcomes, and impact
- Travel regularly between correctional facilities across the region, coordinate national transportation and shipping for dogs transitioning to finishing homes or end-goal placements
Benefits
- Employer-matched 403(b) retirement plan
- Additional paid hours to volunteer within your community
- Support for both professional and personal well-being
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
No Education Listed
