Full Time Dog Trainer

We’re Opportunity Barks Behavior & Training—a team of dog training pros who are building the future of Lifestyle Dog Training. We exist to change the way humans and dogs live together—not just to teach “sit” and “stay,” but to lead the industry with an approach that helps dogs and their people actually thrive.

We’re growing our Training Team in Old City East Falls, Philadelphia, and we’re looking for a next-level human to join us. This is for someone who doesn’t just “like dogs,” but is obsessed with understanding behavior, shaping confident dogs, and helping humans unlock their best life alongside their canine companions.

If you self-identify as a hard-working, self-starting, dog-loving, no-BS, humble-yet-hungry learner who can take coaching and run with it, we might be your people. If you prefer staying in your comfort zone or think dog training is just about obedience drills, we are not your people.

Let’s talk about the work.

THE ROLE: TRAINER

We need a boots-on-the-ground, hands-dirty trainer who can help dogs and their people succeed through:

Training & Behavior Development:

• Assess dogs’ behavior and training needs upon entering programs.
• Implement behavior plans that build front-brain thinkers, develop impulse control, and create calm, confident dogs.
• Train cues, leash skills, polite behaviors, and problem-solve real-world issues with direction from the Program Manager.
• Get dogs moving: leash walks, treadmill training, movement games, enrichment walks, and decompression outings.
• Help dogs transition from chaos to calm with arousal regulation and real-world pattern games.
• Support group classes, private lessons, and client check-ins at our Old City East Falls studios.

Client Communication & Coaching:

• Keep owners looped in with structured progress updates and guidance.
• Coach humans on the dog training lifestyle—because training doesn’t end when the leash is unclipped.
• Help clients problem-solve behavior hiccups and make sustainable shifts in how they live with their dog.
• Document progress like a pro. Track sessions, wins, and challenges—keeping everything dialed and detailed.

Enrichment & Dog Well-being:

• Ensure dogs get what they need: mental work, physical exercise, and decompression.
• Create structured enrichment sessions that help dogs work their bodies and minds.
• Monitor dog interactions to ensure safe and positive socialization experiences.

Team Player Energy:

• Communicate clearly and consistently with the Program Manager and the team.
• Embrace feedback and be open to growth—we all learn, we all evolve.
• Bring your best every day. Dogs and their humans count on you.

WHO YOU ARE:

• Experienced: 2 years of hands-on dog training.
• Growth-minded: Hungry to learn, humble in the process.
• Detail-oriented: Documentation and follow-through matter.
• Physically capable: You can handle dogs of all sizes and temperaments.
• Client-savvy: You know how to coach humans with empathy and clarity.
• Committed: You’re all in on this work and understand it takes consistency.

BONUS POINTS IF YOU:

• Have certification(s) in dog training or behavior (e.g., CPDT, IAABC).
• Know dog body language and behavior inside out.
• Have experience with behavior modification cases (reactivity, fear, aggression).
• Have worked in a fast-paced, client-facing environment.

THE DETAILS:

• Full-time: 40 hours/week (some weekends required).
• Pay: $19-$23/hr (based on experience) tips performance bonuses.
• In-Person: Old City & East Falls Studios.

BENEFITS THAT MATTER:

• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance.
• 401(k) with Matching.
• Paid Vacation & Sick Time.
• Professional Development Opportunities.
• Employee Discounts.
• On-the-job Training Growth Tracks.

Show us what you’ve got.
Submit your resume with a quick cover note about your training experience and why you want to join OpBarks. We read every application.

We’re building something bigger than obedience drills. We’re redefining what it means to live and thrive with dogs. If that excites you, we want to hear from you.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $19.00 - $23.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• On-the-job training
• Opportunities for advancement
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Referral program
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Shift:

• 8 hour shift

Supplemental Pay:

• Performance bonus
• Tips

Work Days:

• Monday to Friday
• Weekends as needed

Experience:

• dog training: 2 years (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $19 - $23