K9 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 Trainer to join our amazing team!

ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Under the direction of the Assistant K9 Training Manager and general supervision of the assigned Lead K9 Trainer, the K9 Trainer is responsible for independently implementing all elements of assistance dog training, including reading dog body language, training procedures, environmental awareness, application of learning theory and related modalities, use of training equipment, training of K9s For Warriors (K9s) skills, dog evaluation, assessment, and reporting.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Independently modify dog behavior and train specific service dog tasks from basic to advanced obedience
• Train obedience and service tasks in alignment with a Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive (LIMA) based training philosophy.
• Maintain detailed training, evaluation, behavior modification and medical records in accordance with K9s’ policies and procedures
• Analyze and assess individual dogs; execute a tailored training program and assist with their care
• Provide public access exposure to Service Dogs in training
• Participate in impulse control, time outs, quiet kennels, temperament testing, group walks, and continuing education sessions
• Coordinate, run, and supervise dog playgroups; evaluate dog’s stress levels, monitor for rude or aggressive behavior; identify when and how to interrupt inappropriate play.
• Liaise with kennel staff on assigned dog’s kennel behavior; coordinate dog procedure requests, feeding schedule and enrichment plans through K9 Training Management and Kennel Management; assist K9 Caretakers with cleaning kennels when needed
• Assist Warrior Trainers with identifying the correct Service Dog for each veteran, initial dog pairing, and provide training assistance through transference
• Participate in events, tours and media opportunities to demonstrate the dog’s trained skills to raise awareness and support fundraising and development endeavors.
• Participate in training sessions at Paws for Change locations to aid in training for dogs in the Paws for Change program.
• Perform frequent cleaning of training equipment, vehicles, and campus training areas
• Participate in public relations presentations and demonstrations showing how Service Dogs provide assistance to veterans with PTSD, TBI, or MST in addition to promoting the mission and encouraging donations
• Display 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
• Perform other duties as assigned by supervisor or management

COMPETENCIES

• Adaptability
• Initiative
• Integrity
• Planning and Organizing

QUALIFICATIONS AND EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

• H.S. diploma or equivalent
• 2 years of professional animal training experience or graduation from the apprenticeship program
• Experience working with purpose bred and shelter dogs preferred
• Kennel experience preferred
• Ability to prioritize and handle multiple tasks, and work independently with minimal supervision
• Comfortable being photographed, filmed and other interactions with media
• Good communication skills
• Valid driver’s license and meet policy requirements for company auto insurance.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Walk 3 to 5 miles per day on average
• Ability to train dogs in crowded environments on campus and in public
• Ability to exert a moderate to extensive amount of physical effort, including stooping, crouching, pushing, pulling, walking stairs, climbing, and lifting to fifty (50) pounds individually. Exposure to unpleasant odors, sounds chemicals, loud noises, and inclement weather.