Join Our Team as a Service Dog Trainer Assistant!

Are you passionate about working with dogs and making a difference in people's lives? As a Service Dog Trainer Assistant, you'll play a vital role in the training of exceptional service dogs for our clients – children and veterans. Your primary focus will be to support the training of dogs to meet the rigorous standards required of a service dog in public work, task training, and exemplary manners while supporting the training team.

This is your opportunity to contribute to a meaningful mission: helping service dogs master specific tasks tailored to individuals with disabilities while ensuring they demonstrate exemplary manners and obedience both in public and at home. Embrace this rewarding journey and be part of a team that changes lives!

Duties:

Work closely with members of the training department to learn and support the following tasks.

Conducting thorough assessments of a client's needs and requirements for a service dog.
Designing and implementing individualized training programs for service dogs based on specific client needs.
Utilizing positive reinforcement techniques to train service dogs in appropriate manners, task performance, and public access skills.
Monitoring, evaluating, and recording the progress of service dogs during the training process, making necessary adjustments to training methods as needed.
Collaborating with a multidisciplinary team, including veterinarians and behavioral specialists, to address any health or behavioral concerns.
Providing guidance and training to volunteers who assist in various aspects of service dog training.
Working closely with clients to provide guidance, support, and education on handling and maintaining their service dogs.

Other duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Skills and Abilities:

Must Have:

Ability to gain knowledge of service dog tasks as it relates to the individualized learning styles of each dog and begin to develop a group of dogs working towards placements for specific clients.
Competency in utilizing computer programs for accurate record-keeping and efficient communication.
Demonstrated adherence to 4 Paws Values: Passion, Ability, Commitment, and Teamwork.
Ability to collaborate effectively as a respectful member of a professional team and take direction from leadership.

Nice to Have:

Evidence of continuous professional development in dog or client-related areas.

Education and Experience

Must Have

Possession of a valid driver's license with the ability to obtain insurance at standard rates.
Completion of high school or equivalent (GED).
Willingness to pursue and maintain professional development by earning Continuing Education Units (CEU) through relevant workshops, conferences, and seminars to stay abreast of industry trends and enhance expertise

Nice to Have

Possession of positive dog training credentials or certifications.
Bachelor's degree in a related field.

Physical Ability/Work Environment

Capable of safely lifting objects weighing up to 45 pounds and safely handling, holding, and restraining active dogs weighing up to 110 pounds.

Employees are encouraged to seek assistance when lifting dogs or objects exceeding 45 pounds in weight.

Ability to maintain extended periods of standing, walking, bending, and/or stooping on hard surfaces while on one's feet.

Equal Opportunity Employer

4 Paws for Ability is an equal-opportunity employer and values diversity in our workforce. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sexual identity, gender orientation, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected status. We are committed to providing a fair and inclusive employment environment for all employees and applicants.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: Starting at $14.00 per hour

Benefits:

Dental insurance
Health insurance
On-the-job training
Paid time off
Parental leave
Retirement plan
Vision insurance

Schedule:

8-hour shift

Work Location: In person

4 Paws for Ability jobs

Service Dog Training Assistant