Find & Apply For Animal Trainer Jobs in Tucson, Arizona

About Dogs of Tucson Dogs of Tucson is more than an indoor dog park. We are a community built around helping dogs and their humans live better lives together. We provide daycare, staycations, training, enrichment, indoor private dog park, and events in a safe, clean, relationship-focused environment. Our approach is rooted in positive reinforcement, communication, and understanding individual dogs . Every dog is different, and our team is responsible for creating an environment where dogs can safely play, rest, learn, and simply be themselves. Position Summary The Rufferee is responsible for maintaining a safe, clean, calm, and enjoyable environment for dogs and their humans at Dogs of Tucson. Rufferees actively supervise dogs during play, monitor body language and group dynamics, facilitate safe introductions and interactions, manage rotations, provide appropriate enrichment, maintain cleanliness, and communicate concerns to the management team. This is an active position that requires someone who is comfortable being on their feet, moving throughout the facility, cleaning, interacting with dogs of different sizes and temperaments, and making thoughtful decisions quickly. The Rufferee is not simply watching dogs play. You are actively managing the environment and helping dogs succeed. Essential ResponsibilitiesDog Supervision & Safety Actively monitor dogs throughout play sessions rather than simply observing from one location. Learn and recognize individual dogs, their personalities, behaviors, play styles, triggers, and limitations. Read canine body language and identify signs of stress, fear, overstimulation, conflict, or inappropriate play. Intervene appropriately when play becomes too rough, intense, or unsafe. Help prevent conflicts before they escalate. Maintain appropriate group sizes and play environments based on the dogs present. Follow Dogs of Tucson protocols for introductions, rotations, transitions, feeding, potty breaks, rest periods, and separation. Be especially attentive around gates, doors, fences, kennels, and other transition areas. Never allow dogs to become crowded or trapped in an unsafe situation. Know where each dog belongs and be able to correctly identify dogs in the facility. Follow all emergency and incident procedures. Immediately communicate injuries, concerning behavior, escapes, fights, illness, or other safety concerns to management. Dog Handling Safely and confidently handle dogs of varying sizes, breeds, ages, energy levels, and temperaments. Use calm, appropriate handling techniques. Maintain a professional and confident demeanor around dogs. Understand that dogs respond to human body language, energy, and emotional state. Ask for assistance when unsure about a dog rather than allowing uncertainty to create a safety issue. Work with management and experienced team members when introducing yourself to a dog you have not previously handled. Follow approved Dogs of Tucson handling protocols at all times. Enrichment & Rotations Assist with structured rotations to ensure dogs receive appropriate opportunities for play, rest, potty breaks, and enrichment. Help implement enrichment activities when scheduled. Watch for dogs who may need a break from group play. Support activities designed to provide mental stimulation and prevent overstimulation. Help ensure dogs are not spending unnecessary periods confined without appropriate potty, movement, or enrichment opportunities. Communicate observations about individual dogs that may help the team improve their daily experience. Cleanliness & Facility Care Keeping the facility clean is a major part of the Rufferee position.

Responsibilities may include:

Sweeping and mopping floors. Cleaning playrooms, bathrooms, hallways, and common areas. Cleaning and disinfecting surfaces and equipment. Removing dog hair, dirt, and debris. Cleaning up accidents promptly and thoroughly. Emptying trash. Cleaning kennels and rest areas. Keeping water bowls and other dog equipment clean. Maintaining a clean and organized work environment throughout the shift. Completing assigned cleaning responsibilities before leaving the facility. A clean facility is part of dog safety and quality of care—not an optional task. Customer Service Rufferees are often one of the first team members our clients and members interact with.

You will:

Welcome members and their dogs. Provide friendly, professional customer service. Answer basic questions about the facility and services. Help clients understand facility rules and dog-play expectations. Communicate professionally with dog owners regarding their dogs. Bring concerns or difficult conversations to management when appropriate. Represent the Dogs of Tucson brand positively at all times. Teamwork & Communication Communicate clearly with other Rufferees, trainers, managers, and leadership. Participate in shift handoffs and communicate important information about dogs. Share relevant observations about behavior, health, feeding, potty habits, and interactions. Ask questions when you are unsure. Be willing to help teammates with dogs, cleaning, rotations, and other facility responsibilities. Support a positive and respectful team environment. Follow the direction of management and established Dogs of Tucson procedures. What We Are Looking For The ideal Rufferee is: Calm and confident around dogs Comfortable working with dogs of many sizes and personalities Able to recognize canine body language Observant and proactive Reliable and punctual Comfortable working independently while also being a team player Physically active and able to remain on their feet for extended periods Comfortable cleaning and performing physically demanding tasks Willing to learn and follow established protocols Comfortable communicating with dog owners Able to remain calm during stressful or unexpected situations Patient and willing to give dogs time to adjust Someone who understands that dog care requires consistency and responsibility Experience Previous professional experience working with dogs is preferred but not necessarily required. Experience in any of the following is a plus: Dog daycare Boarding Dog training Veterinary care Pet sitting Dog walking Animal shelter/rescue Grooming Veterinary assisting Animal behavior Customer service We are willing to train the right person who demonstrates good judgment, a willingness to learn, and a genuine commitment to quality dog care. Physical Requirements This is an active, physical position.

Rufferees must be able to:

Stand and walk for extended periods. Frequently bend, squat, kneel, reach, and move around the facility. Safely interact with dogs of different sizes. Clean floors, kennels, bathrooms, and other facility areas. Lift and carry supplies and equipment as needed. Respond quickly when a dog requires assistance. Work indoors in an environment where barking, movement, dog hair, and accidents are part of the job. Work Environment Dogs of Tucson is a busy, active environment.

Rufferees should expect:

Dogs barking and playing. Multiple dogs moving throughout the facility. Regular cleaning and occasional accidents. Fast-paced periods during arrivals, departures, and rotations. Working around dogs with different personalities and behavior needs. Standing and moving for much of the shift. Weekend, evening, holiday, and early morning availability depending on scheduling needs. Professional Expectations All Rufferees are expected to: Put dog safety first. Stay engaged and actively supervise dogs. Never use a cell phone or other distraction while responsible for active dog supervision. Follow Dogs of Tucson policies and procedures. Treat every dog and client with respect. Maintain a calm and professional demeanor. Keep the facility clean throughout the shift. Communicate concerns rather than ignoring them. Ask for help when needed. Be dependable and arrive prepared for every scheduled shift. Continue learning about canine behavior and safe dog handling. Support the entire team—not just the tasks immediately assigned to them. Training & Development New Rufferees will receive training on Dogs of Tucson procedures, including: Dog identification Canine body language Safe group play Dog introductions Gate and transition safety Rotations Enrichment Cleaning and sanitation Emergency procedures Facility policies Customer service expectations Dogs of Tucson's positive reinforcement approach Continued coaching and training will be provided as team members develop their skills.

Compensation Starting Pay:

$15-$17 per hour Pay may vary based on experience, demonstrated dog-handling skills, reliability, responsibilities, and performance. Opportunities for increased responsibility and advancement may be available for team members who demonstrate strong dog-handling skills, leadership, reliability, and a commitment to Dogs of Tucson.

Pay:

$16.00 - $18.00 per hour

Benefits:

Employee discount Flexible schedule

Work Location:

In person