STARTING PAY IS $16.50+ depending on experience and certification. Schedule to be determined, including evening and weekend hours.
POSITION SUMMARY
The Canine Training Coordinator will be primarily responsible for teaching public dog training classes and private lessons as well as maintaining Wayside Waifs post-adoption follow-up program. The ideal candidate will have a CPDT-KA or equivalent professional dog training certification. and will be people-oriented with excellent customer service and communication skills. This position will involve communicating information both in person and via email/phone. In addition, this position will assist with the day to day training and behavioral maintenance of dogs currently available for adoption at the shelter.
PRIMARY ACCOUNTABILITIES
- Provide and maintain a robust follow-up program for dogs and puppies adopted from Wayside Waifs
- Utilize the provided curriculum to teach group dog training classes
- Teach private and group dog training lessons (i.e. Basic Obedience, Canine Good Citizen preparation, some dog reactivity, and confidence building)
- Respond to training inquiries made by phone, email or in-person. Providing advice or directing to training classes or other resources as appropriate
- Build the knowledge and skills of Waysides staff and volunteers through classes, mentorship and continuing education
- Provide basic obedience and manners training for dogs awaiting adoption
- Assist with behavior evaluations and data collection/entry as needed
- Other related tasks as assigned
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS/ KEY COMPETENCIES
- Thorough understanding of canine behavior and body language
- Thorough understanding of human learning styles
- Ability to use safe and humane dog handling techniques for both fearful and high arousal dogs
- Ability to work independently, as well as within a team setting, and to provide and accept feedback in the moment
- Strong customer service background
- Attention to detail and ability to prioritize tasks in a fast paced environment
- Ability to work under pressure
- Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing
- Strong public speaking skills
- Ability to work in an emotionally charged environment, and have challenging conversations effectively and appropriately
POSITION REQUIREMENTS
Experience
- Experience handling and training canines
- Experience teaching private lessons and/or group classes
- General computer experience required
- Demonstrated experience working effectively with people in a variety of high-stress situations
- Previous shelter experience preferred
Education
- High School diploma or GED required
- CPDT- KA or equivalent required (must hold a current certification or be willing and able to acquire within 6 months of hire date)
Physical
- Ability to lift 50lbs
- Able to maintain control of dogs of all sizes
- Significant amount of standing and squatting during a typical day, exposure to fumes, animal smells, and airborne particles
- Noise level is moderate to high
- Exposure to animal waste
- Potential to be scratched or bitten
