Experienced Positive Reinforcement Dog Trainer

Job Summary We are seeking an experienced, highly hands-on Positive Reinforcement Dog Trainer to join our growing training team. This role is ideal for someone who: deeply understands dogs and dog behavior, thrives in an active, fast-moving environment, enjoys both training and day-to-day camp life, and brings calm, collaborative leadership energy to a team. The right candidate is emotionally steady, observant, hardworking, low-ego, and genuinely excited to help dogs succeed.

This is not a desk-based role. Our trainers are actively engaged with dogs, handlers, clients, and the daily rhythm of camp life. In this role, you will utilize humane, reward-based training methods to help dogs and their owners achieve their training goals. Your expertise will foster a positive environment where animals feel safe, confident, and eager to learn. This position offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of pets and their families while working in a lively, supportive setting that values professional growth and animal welfare. About Far Fetched Acres is a behavior-forward canine boarding and training camp located in the Hudson Valley of New York.

We are not a traditional dog boarding facility. Our approach combines thoughtful socialization, enrichment, training, structure, and outdoor adventure to support dogs physically, emotionally, and behaviorally while in our care.

Built on a foundation of humane, science-based positive reinforcement training, our work centers canine welfare, emotional regulation, relationship-building, and clear communication — both with dogs and with the humans who love them.

Our team believes deeply in continuing education, collaboration, and raising the standard of dog care and training. The Role Dog Training & Behavior Design and implement customized positive reinforcement training programs for dogs of all breeds and temperaments Train, generalize, and maintain real-world behaviors using force-free methods Support safe, thoughtful socialization and playgroup integration Assess each dog's behavior, temperament, and training needs through hands-on handling and observation Participate in enrichment, structured play, and daily camp activities Team Support & Mentorship Mentor junior trainers, apprentices, and handlers in real time Support team education around body language, handling skills, and humane training practices Help maintain a calm, safe, and collaborative training environment Client Communication Communicate training progress clearly and professionally with clients Create thoughtful written and video updates for Board & Train families Collaborate with our NYC-based training and client teams as needed Daily Camp Contribution Jump in where needed to support overall camp operations and dog wellbeing Assist with feeding, cleaning, grooming support, handling, and general dog care tasks as needed Requirements Strong experience in positive reinforcement / force-free dog training Excellent dog handling skills and understanding of canine body language Experience managing dog-dog interactions and social groups Calm, grounded presence in fast-paced environments Strong communication and teamwork skills Physically able to stand, walk, bend, kneel, and lift up to 50 lbs regularly Flexible schedule, including some weekends and holidays Reliable transportation to Chatham, NY or willingness to relocate Preferred Qualifications CPDT-KA, KPA, or similar certifications/education Experience with Board & Train programs Experience mentoring newer trainers or handlers Strong understanding of behavior modification and welfare-centered handling Video Submission Requirement Please include a short video (3-5 minutes max) introducing yourself and sharing brief clips of yourself training, handling dogs and / or working in group settings. This does not need to be highly produced — a simple phone video is completely fine. Why Join FFA? Far Fetched Acres offers a rare opportunity to work with dogs in a truly enriching, social, and behavior-forward environment surrounded by an experienced and passionate team.

We value: continuing education, thoughtful training, emotional intelligence, teamwork, and deep respect for dogs.

Benefits include:

Health insurance Paid time off Professional development support Opportunities for growth and leadership Access to training courses and continuing education If you're excited by the idea of helping shape the future of humane dog care and training while working closely with a highly engaged team of dog professionals, we'd love to hear from you.

Job Type:

Full-time.

Location:

Chatham, NY (in person)

Pay:

$45,000.00 - $80,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Health insurance On-the-job training Paid time off Professional development assistance

Work Location:

In person