Become a Dog Trainer with Wags n Wisdom Dog Training! Wags n Wisdom Dog Training is looking for a motivated, dependable, and enthusiastic part-time Train n Play Associate & Trainer-in-Training to join our team! •Professional dog training certification (CPDT-KA, KPA, or another approved organization) is strongly preferred. Candidates who are actively working toward certification will also be considered This position is a great opportunity for someone who loves working with dogs and wants to develop their skills in professional dog training. You will begin by working primarily in our Train n Play program , gaining hands-on experience with a variety of dogs while learning and implementing Wags n Wisdom's training curriculum and methods. As you demonstrate competency, reliability, and the ability to consistently follow our training program, you will have the opportunity to assist with group classes and eventually progress into independently teaching classes of your own. We are looking for someone who is highly coachable, eager to learn, receptive to feedback, and committed to continuing their education in modern, science-based dog training. Previous professional dog training experience is a plus, but we are willing to train the right person who demonstrates the right attitude and aptitude. Responsibilities Train n Play & Dog Training Lead and manage individual and small groups of dogs in our Train n Play program Follow and accurately implement Wags n Wisdom's established training curriculum and protocols Learn and apply positive reinforcement training techniques Adapt training exercises appropriately to meet individual dogs' needs while maintaining the goals and standards of our curriculum Develop training plans based on each dog's individual progress and behavioral goals Monitor and document each dog's training progress Communicate training updates and recommendations to pet owners Maintain accurate and timely training records and notes Safely manage dogs with a variety of breeds, ages, temperaments, and training needs Ensure the safety, supervision, and well-being of all dogs in our care Group Classes & Trainer Development Assist experienced trainers during group classes Learn and demonstrate Wags n Wisdom's group class curriculum Observe and participate in teaching exercises and client instruction Receive coaching and feedback from experienced trainers Consistently implement feedback and corrections in future training sessions Progress toward independently teaching group classes as competency is demonstrated Eventually lead group classes independently according to Wags n Wisdom's curriculum and training standards Provide professional, knowledgeable, and consistent guidance to clients General Responsibilities Assist with general animal care tasks, including feeding, exercising, cleaning, and nail trims as needed Provide excellent customer service to clients Answer client questions professionally and appropriately, seeking guidance from a senior trainer when needed Collaborate with other trainers and staff to maintain a positive, team-oriented environment Maintain accurate records using Microsoft Word, Excel, Google Docs, and Google Sheets Maintain a clean, organized, and safe training environment What We're Looking For We are looking for someone who is: Highly coachable and receptive to feedback Willing and able to follow an established training curriculum Eager to learn and continue developing their dog training knowledge Reliable, responsible, and punctual Comfortable asking questions when they are unsure rather than guessing Professional and confident when communicating with clients Patient, observant, and attentive to individual dogs' needs Comfortable working independently while also taking direction from senior trainers Positive, team-oriented, and willing to continually improve their skills Qualifications & Skills Experience working with and training dogs of various breeds, ages, and temperaments is a plus Professional dog training experience is preferred but we are willing to train the right candidate Currently hold or be actively working toward a recognized professional dog training certification such as CPDT-KA, KPA, or another approved training organization Strong dog handling and behavior management skills Familiarity with positive reinforcement training methods Familiarity with general pet care practices, including nail trimming Experience in a dog daycare, kennel, boarding, veterinary, shelter, or similar animal care environment is beneficial Excellent communication and interpersonal skills Strong attention to detail and ability to complete training records accurately and on time Ability to receive constructive feedback and consistently apply what you have learned Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Word, Excel, Google Docs, and Google Sheets Schedule & Availability Part-time position, approximately 10-25 hours per week Flexible availability required Monday through Friday Schedule may vary from day to day based on the number of dogs enrolled in Train n Play and other training programs Some evening availability will eventually be required for group classes Applicants must be willing to work a flexible schedule as their responsibilities develop Physical Requirements Ability to stand and walk for extended periods of time Ability to safely handle dogs of various sizes and strength levels Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. safely Ability to work in an active environment with frequent movement, bending, walking, and handling of dogs Pay & Compensation Starting pay: $16.80/hour Opportunity for pay increases based on demonstrated performance, experience, training, and professional certifications As you demonstrate competency and progress into additional training and teaching responsibilities, there will be opportunities to advance into higher-level trainer positions with increased compensation Growth Opportunity This position is designed as a trainer-development position with the potential for advancement. Our goal is to help the right candidate grow from a Train n Play Associate into a confident, knowledgeable dog trainer who can eventually assist with and independently teach Wags n Wisdom group classes. Advancement is based on demonstrated competency, including: Consistently and correctly implementing Wags n Wisdom's training methods Demonstrating strong dog-handling skills Understanding the reasoning behind training exercises Accurately documenting training progress Effectively communicating with clients Demonstrating reliability and professionalism Accepting and implementing coaching and feedback Demonstrating readiness to take on additional teaching responsibilities If you are passionate about dogs, eager to learn, and want to build a career in professional dog training, we'd love to hear from you!

Job Type:

Part-time Pay:

From $16.80 per hour

Benefits:

Flexible schedule People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

Work Location:

In person