K9 Intake Trainer

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 Intake Trainer to join our amazing team!

Role and Responsibilities

Under the direction and general supervision of the K9 Procurement & Training Assistant Manager, the K9 Intake Trainer is responsible for building training foundations that prepare the dogs in the quarantine kennels, during intake, for service dog training. The training foundation includes but is not limited to clicker conditioning, calm kennel manners, loose lead walking, target training, and focus; based on our protocols, training standards, and standard operating procedures.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Help with intake of new dogs entering quarantine. Providing positive interactions with new dogs to make their transition as comfortable as possible
• Assess new dogs during their intake period and create a training plan
• Set goals for behavior and training outcome at the end of their intake period
• Conduct playgroups with the new intake dogs
• Maintain detailed training, medical and enrichment records per policies and procedures
• Work with other departments to make a smooth transition for the dogs when they finish their intake period
• Assist in the care and health of our canines which consists of training, feeding, breaking, bathing, exercising, enriching, and medicating dogs
• Assist kennel staff in cleaning quarantine and isolation kennels to include, feeding bowls, beds, and provide enrichment when needed
• Assist veterinary staff with intake exams, sample collection, veterinary restraint, and monitoring treatment effectiveness in assigned dogs
• Communicate with other departments regarding the care and training of the new intake dogs
• Must be able to work independently with little or no supervision and always handle oneself in a professional matter
• Understand and abide by best practices related to quarantine and isolation protocols
• Provide assistance with training and breaking of all dogs that fall under the Procurement and Placement department

Other Duties

• Provide assistance with training and breaking of career changed dogs
• Travel to shelters and assess possible candidates with the Procurement team
• Cross-train in Adoptions and Foster teams to help with on and off-site events
• Assist Procurement team with shelter trainings
• Assist with intake and evaluations of Provider dogs
• Weekend and holiday work may be required.
• Perform any other duties as assigned by supervisor or management

Qualifications and Education Requirements

• High School diploma or equivalent
• Experience working with purpose-bred and shelter dogs preferred
• Ability to prioritize and multi-task
• Comfortable with being photographed, filmed, and other interactions with media
• Ability to work independently and within a group setting
• Training experience preferred
• Must have basic computer literacy skills
• Must have 1-2 years of dog handling experience
• Valid driver’s license and meet policy requirements for company auto insurance

Physical Demands

• 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, walking stairs, climbing, and lifting up to fifty (50) pounds individually.
• Exposure to unpleasant odors, sounds, chemicals, loud noises, and inclement weather

CORE COMPETENCIES

• Adaptability
• Integrity
• Planning and Organizing
• Cooperation