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 Warrior Trainer to join our amazing team!

Role and Responsibilities

Under the general direction of the Manager of Warrior Training, the Warrior Trainer is to oversee all aspects of Warrior Training, including but not limited to, daily instruction and introduction of new commands, providing and monitoring practical application of each command, and presenting class lectures, as required. The Warrior Trainer must maintain training standards with all Warriors, as well as any updates to training methods/materials.

**Daily local travel, Monday through Friday, and possibly on weekends and evenings, as needed.

Preparation for Team Training

Review upcoming Warrior applications to familiarize yourself with each Warrior’s disabilities and training needsReview each class dog file with the K9 Training teamRequest supplies for delivery prior to team training, such as leashes, vests, collars, treat bags, collapsible bowls, and waste bag dispensersMake sure each class has equipment and binders set up prior to arrival Warrior Training

Conduct all training of Warrior and Service Dog teams including daily public accessReview and administer written exams and the Public Access TestAssist with and participate in the graduation ceremony each monthSchedule training and locations of Warrior and Service Dog teamsReview and provide written weekly personalized training plans for each WarriorMentor, guide, and assist Warriors through difficult training situations Misc. Tasks

Carry an after-hours duty phone on a rotating basis for Warrior grads to have contact with us 24/7 for any training and/or medical concerns with their Service Dog.Work with the Manager of Warrior Training on staff events, Warrior events, photos and press releases, media requests, and interviewsMaintain detailed training and evaluation notes as per policies and procedures.Provide public access exposure to Warriors and Service Dogs in training that include shopping centers, restaurants, sporting events, crowded city environments, parades, etc. Attend weekly staff meetings and special events, and/or make presentations when neededAlways represent the organization in a professional mannerAssist in giving campus tours and check presentationsPreferred Skills

LeadershipMilitary experienceManagement skills

Core Competencies

Customer OrientationResults OrientedCoachingConductStress Management Professionalism

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to perform the essential functions of this job successfully. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets, and fax machines.

Ability to exert a moderate to extensive amount of physical effort, including stooping, crouching, twisting, turning, walking stairs, climbing, and lifting up to fifty (50) pounds individually. Exposure to unpleasant odors or sounds. Exposure to chemicals, loud noises, and inclement weather.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

High school diploma or equivalent is requiredKnowledge of issues facing Veterans and a passion for serving this communityRequired Minimum of 2 years’ experience working directly with veterans at any Veteran Service Organizations and/or Department of Veterans AffairsRequired Experience working with Veterans dealing with mental and physical disabilitiesExperience working in customer service field preferred, e.g. customer service associate Possess patience to interact with challenging clientsStrong verbal, written, and oral communication skills; this position requires the candidate to possess a strong ability to speak clearly and effectively as well as the ability to listen to and hear clients who may be challenging and/or in distress.Veteran status preferred or familiarity with military/veteran communityValid driver’s license, and meeting policy requirements for company auto insurance is required

Monday -Friday
Typically 8am to 5pm
Some weekends & holidays