K9s For Warriors is the nation’s largest provider of service dogs to veterans suffering from the invisible wounds of war, such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Our unique, in-house program helps change the lives of American heroes by pairing them with a battle buddy, who was likely a rescue dog and then teaching him or her to utilize that dog to mitigate the symptoms of their wounds. In order to continue the great work, we are doing, we are in need of a K9 Trainer- Puppy to join our amazing team!
Basic Function
Under the general direction of the Manager of K9 Training Operations, the K9 Trainer (Puppy) is responsible for soliciting, screening, providing instruction, training, and support to volunteers raising puppies, and identifying, selecting, and transporting new puppies into the puppy program. Additionally, this position facilitates one-on-one and group puppy classes, evaluates puppy development, and performs administrative tasks as required by the position.
Essential Functions And Duties
Instruct volunteer puppy raisers on proper training techniques and standards in accordance with approved K9s For Warriors training methods
Manage, coordinate, document, and maintain records on Puppy Program volunteer activities, classes, calendars, and ambassador events
Maintain detailed training, evaluation, behavior modification, and medical records as per our policies and procedures
Recruit, interview, and provide in-person or virtual training to new puppy raiser volunteers; conduct in-home visits to evaluate safe puppy-raising environment
Develop, coordinate, and teach group and one-on-one puppy classes
Identify behavior concerns and create specific behavior modification plans
Maintain positive and open communication with volunteers, provide feedback and updates on puppies in for final training; coordinate pre-graduation meet and greets
Conduct puppy temperament testing, identify and procure new puppies for the program
Participate in public relations presentations and demonstrations to show how Service Dogs provide assistance to veterans who have PTSD, TBI, or MST in addition to promoting our mission and encouraging donations
Perform daily, weekly, and monthly cleaning of training equipment, vehicles, and on-campus training areas
Analyze Puppy Program data and generate reports
Schedule day training and kennel camp sessions
Provide a positive example regarding work ethic, attitude, professional ethics, knowledge of policies/procedures, interpersonal interactions, and mutual respect.
Provide exceptional, courteous, and compassionate customer service to the public, volunteers, and other staff members at all times.
Must be able to work independently with little or no supervision and always handle oneself in a professional matter
Other Duties
Attend various Puppy Program activities off campus
Work nights & weekends as needed
Perform any other duties as assigned by supervisor or management
Travel locally, regionally, and nationally to procure puppies
Arrange grooming appointments for hypoallergenic dogs
Qualifications And Education Requirements
High school degree or equivalent
Dog training certification from an accredited school or equivalent work experience
Must have excellent organizational skills
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Proficient in Microsoft Office 365
Ability to prioritize and handle multiple tasks
Reliable transportation to and from offsite training locations required
Comfortable with being photographed, filmed and other interactions with media
Must have a valid Driver’s License and able to be on company vehicle insurance
Ability to work independently and within a group setting
Core Competencies
Coaching
Sociability
Adaptability
Verbal Communication
Planning and Organizing
Initiative
Physical Requirements
Walking 3 to 5 miles per day on average
Ability to exert a moderate to extensive amount of physical effort, including stooping, crouching, pushing, pulling, twisting, turning, walking stairs, climbing, and lifting up to fifty (50) pounds individually. Exposure to unpleasant odors, sounds, cleaning chemicals, loud noises, and inclement weather.
Seniority level
Entry level
Employment type
Full-time
Job function
Education and Training
Industries
Non-profit Organizations
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