Determined to end Veteran suicide, K9s For Warriors is the leading nonprofit organization providing Service Dogs to military Veterans nationwide suffering from PTSD, traumatic brain injury, and/or military sexual trauma — at no financial cost to the Veteran. Founded in 2011 as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, K9s For Warriors is committed to saving lives at both ends of the leash by primarily rescuing dogs and pairing them with Veterans in need. In order to continue the great work we’re doing, we’re looking to add a K9 Trainer to 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 obedienceTrain 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 proceduresAnalyze 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 sessionsCoordinate, 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 neededAssist 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 areasParticipate 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 donationsDisplay a positive example regarding work ethic, attitude, professional ethics, knowledge of policies/procedures, interpersonal interactions, and mutual respectProvide exceptional, courteous, and compassionate customer service to the public, volunteers, and other staff members at all timesPerform other duties as assigned by supervisor or management

COMPETENCIES

Adaptability InitiativeIntegrity Planning and Organizing

QUALIFICATIONS AND EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

H.S. diploma or equivalent2 years of professional animal training experience or graduation from the apprenticeship programExperience working with purpose bred and shelter dogs preferredKennel experience preferredAbility to prioritize and handle multiple tasks, and work independently with minimal supervisionComfortable being photographed, filmed and other interactions with mediaGood communication skillsValid driver’s license and meet policy requirements for company auto insurance.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Walk 3 to 5 miles per day on averageAbility to train dogs in crowded environments on campus and in publicAbility 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.