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NV
National Veterinary Associates
Pet Trainer I
Career Insights for Animal Trainer
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What they do
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.
$40,144 / year median in Virginia
+7% projected growth
Job Description
Job Description Canine Behavior & Training Specialist Position Overview We are seeking a highly skilled Canine Behavior & Training Specialist to join our team. This role is designed for a professional who integrates advanced learning theory with a hands-on, empathetic approach to pet education. You will be responsible for facilitating both group curricula and private instructional sessions, serving as a primary resource for pet parents seeking to enhance their bond and communication with their dogs. The ideal candidate will prioritize psychological safety and physical comfort, ensuring that the training process is a positive, supportive experience for all participants.
Key Responsibilities Instructional Leadership:
Facilitate engaging, curriculum-based group classes and customized individual training sessions for a diverse range of breeds, ages, and temperaments.Behavioral Advocacy:
Utilize comprehensive knowledge of learning theory to educate clients on canine behavior, promoting patience and realistic expectations throughout the developmental process.Safety & Environment Management:
Maintain a secure and low-stress training environment, proactively managing group dynamics to ensure the comfort of both pets and their owners.Client Engagement:
Act as a professional consultant for pet parents, providing actionable feedback and demonstrating training techniques that foster long-term success and bonding.Continuous Development:
Participate in ongoing on-the-job training to stay current with evolving industry standards and evidence-based training methodologies.Professional Qualifications Experience:
A minimum of one year of professional, job-related experience in canine training or animal behavior is required.Technical Knowledge:
Strong foundational understanding of operant conditioning, classical conditioning, and modern reinforcement-based training techniques.Communication:
Exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability to translate complex behavioral concepts into accessible, encouraging instruction for clients.Adaptability:
Proven ability to manage a variety of canine personalities and client needs with professionalism and composure. Our Commitment We provide a collaborative professional environment where expertise is respected and pet welfare is the cornerstone of our mission. This position offers the opportunity to make a tangible impact on the lives of pets and the families who love them. National Veterinary Associates is a leading global pet care organization united in the love of animals and the people who love them. At NVA, we're on a mission to improve the lives of pets and the people who love them. That starts by empowering our care teams. We nurture their growth with resources to practice medicine their way. Our network of 1,000 hospitals connects them to a community of professionals who share their passion so they can learn and grow together. Our national presence enables us to deliver technology and innovations that simplify work and expand care for all. At NVA, we're committed to your professional growth. We support your entire career journey, offering opportunities ranging from mentorship to ownership. At National Veterinary Associates, we want to make sure your experience connecting with us is seamless and straightforward. Here's what to expect when interacting with us:- We'll always reach out via verified LinkedIn profiles or emails ending in @nva.com
- We may also contact you via text message from an identified NVA representative for recruiting-related communication
- All job opportunities and applications are hosted on our official careers site: careers.nva.com
- There is no cost or confidential information required to apply or be considered for a position If you have any doubts about a communication, feel free to visit our careers page to verify authenticity or email us at hiringhub@nva.