An Animal Trainer trains animals to become familiar with human voices and contact, and to respond to commands. Trains dogs to assist people with disabilities. May train animals for a health, competition, or show. May train other animals such as horses, dolphins, and apes.
Canine Training & Enrichment Manager Associated Humane Societies Newark, NJ Job Details Full-time $64,000 - $70,000 a year 22 hours ago Benefits Paid time off Qualifications Companion animal handling Record keeping Teamwork Volunteer management Attention to detail Organizational skills Behavioral therapy
Full Job Description Position Description:
Title:
Canine Training and Enrichment Manager Location:
Newark, NJ Reports to:
Shelter Director Full Time:
Full Time Exempt
WHO WE ARE
For over a century, Associated Humane Societies has offered a haven to abused and neglected animals. Founded in 1906, AHS is the LARGEST animal sheltering system in New Jersey, operating three shelters located in Newark, Tinton Falls, and Forked River. Our Forked River facility also includes Popcorn Park, a sanctuary established in 1977 for abandoned, injured, ill, exploited, abused, or elderly animals—including exotic species, birds, farm animals, and wildlife.
TALENT + CULTURE AT AHS
At AHS, we want both our team and the animals in our care to feel safe, supported, and valued. Animal rescue is a demanding but deeply rewarding mission. We strive to create a workplace that encourages learning, professional growth, and compassionate action in every aspect of our work.
WHO WE NEED
We are seeking a passionate and experienced Canine Training and Enrichment Manager to lead and elevate the behavior and enrichment programs for dogs in our care. Based at our Newark location, this role will help build and maintain structured, humane training programs that promote adoptability, reduce stress, and provide positive behavioral outcomes for every dog. This is a hands-on leadership position that works closely with operations, medical, and adoption teams, as well as the public.
WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT TO DO
Program Development & Enrichment Oversight Design and implement structured canine behavior, training, and enrichment programs. Conduct behavior assessments on intake and provide individualized behavior support plans. Establish daily enrichment routines that reduce stress and support overall well-being. Recommend and apply humane behavior modification techniques that support adoption success. Team Training & Volunteer Engagement Train, mentor, and support animal care staff and volunteers. Lead hands-on workshops and ongoing education for staff on dog handling, behavior observation, and training practices. Promote a compassionate, fear-free, and enrichment-focused environment. Canine Behavior & Adoption Support Work directly with dogs exhibiting challenging behaviors to increase adoptability. Support foster caregivers and adopters with customized training guidance. Provide post-adoption counseling and behavioral resources to ensure successful placements as needed. Collaboration & Community Education Partner with shelter operations and veterinary teams to ensure safety. Serve as a liaison to adopters, fosters with training related inquiries. Represent AHS by educating the public on humane training, dog body language, and enrichment practices. Behavior Data & Recordkeeping Maintain accurate behavior records and track progress on all dogs, ensuring there's a pathway plan in place. Use data to inform programming, assess outcomes, and drive strategy. Contribute to organization-wide efforts to reduce length of stay and increase live outcomes.
WHAT YOU NEED A
passion for dogs and deep compassion for animals in shelter environments Fear Free Certification At least 3 years of professional experience in animal behavior or training (CPDT-KA or similar certification a plus) Knowledge of positive reinforcement, enrichment techniques, and canine body language Excellent communicator, able to collaborate across departments and with the public Strong organizational skills and attention to detail in recordkeeping Ability to safely handle dogs of all breeds, sizes, and behavioral needs Comfortable working in a shelter environment and in all weather conditions Physically able to lift 50 lbs, stand for long periods, and safely manage large or strong dogs
