Canine Behavior Specialist/Advanced Canine Behavior

Pet Camp Ranger Station Full-Time & Part-Time Opportunities Starting at $21/hour + Comprehensive Benefits + Career Development Looking for More Than a Traditional Dog Daycare Job? Pet Camp Ranger Station is seeking experienced canine professionals who are passionate about behavior, enrichment, and individualized dog care. Unlike traditional daycare environments, our program is designed for dogs with unique social, behavioral, and environmental needs. Many of the dogs we work with are fearful, reactive, socially selective, easily overstimulated, or otherwise challenged in large-group settings. Our mission is to help these dogs build confidence, develop social skills, and enjoy positive experiences in a safe and structured environment. We're looking for skilled handlers who can confidently read canine body language, manage complex social interactions, and provide thoughtful, individualized care for every dog in our program. This position is ideal for beginning-to-experienced dog trainers, veterinary professionals, shelter and rescue staff, behavior-focused daycare handlers, and others seeking to deepen their expertise in canine behavior and enrichment. What You'll Do Behavior-Focused Dog Handling Supervise carefully selected playgroups and individual interactions among dogs with diverse personalities and behavioral needs Assess canine body language and social dynamics in real time to maintain safe, positive interactions Recognize and respond appropriately to stress signals, arousal levels, and changing group dynamics Utilize proactive handling techniques to prevent conflict and promote successful social experiences Enrichment & Development Implement structured enrichment activities tailored to individual dogs Facilitate confidence-building exercises, sensory activities, and interactive play sessions Support dogs as they develop appropriate communication and social skills Help create individualized care plans that address each dog's unique needs and goals Client Communication & Team Collaboration Communicate observations and behavioral progress clearly and professionally Partner with pet parents to provide meaningful updates and guidance regarding their dog's experience Collaborate with a skilled team committed to behavior, safety, and individualized care Participate in ongoing education and professional development opportunities What We're Looking For Required Qualifications Professional experience working with dogs in a daycare, training, boarding, veterinary, shelter, rescue, or behavior-focused environment Strong understanding of canine body language, communication, and behavior Confidence handling dogs of all breeds, sizes, and temperaments Excellent observational and communication skills Ability to remain calm, focused, and proactive in a dynamic environment Commitment to maintaining the highest standards of safety and animal welfare Highly Preferred Experience Two or more years of professional dog handling experience Experience working with behaviorally complex, fearful, reactive, or socially selective dogs Experience implementing enrichment programs, training exercises, or behavior-modification support plans Background in dog training, veterinary medicine, animal sheltering, rescue work, or behavior-focused daycare operations Industry certifications or coursework related to dog training or behavior (a plus, but not required) Compensation & Benefits Competitive Compensation Starting pay of $21/hour Performance-based pay increase after 90 days Outstanding Benefits Package Medical, dental, and vision insurance 401(k) Safe Harbor retirement plan access to our transit benefits program Defined benefits retirement program Profit-sharing opportunities Land's End clothing allowance Paid training and professional development Scholarship opportunities cell phone reimbursement Why Join Pet Camp Ranger Station? Many of the dogs in our program have struggled in traditional daycare environments or require a more individualized approach to succeed. Your work will directly improve their quality of life while strengthening the bond between pets and their families. At Pet Camp Ranger Station, you'll find: A specialized behavior and enrichment-focused environment Opportunities to work with a diverse range of canine personalities and behavioral challenges Ongoing mentorship, education, and professional growth A supportive, collaborative team culture Clear opportunities for advancement within the organization Meaningful work that makes a lasting difference for dogs and their families Ready to Make an Impact? If you're an experienced canine professional looking to build your career in behavior-focused dog care—and help dogs succeed where others have struggled—we'd love to hear from you. Apply today and become part of a team dedicated to helping every dog thrive.

Pay:

From $21.00 per hour

Benefits:

401(k) Dental insurance Employee discount Health insurance On-the-job training Opportunities for advancement Paid time off Professional development assistance Vision insurance People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply Application Question(s): Please describe your experience working with reactive, fearful, or behaviorally complex dogs.

Experience:

professional dog handling: 2 years (Required)

License/Certification:

California driver's license (Preferred)

Work Location:

In person