Full-Time Foster & Young Dog Development Manager

Dogs2DogTags Is Growing Dogs2DogTags is a growing 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Plymouth, Wisconsin, dedicated to saving our vets one dog at a time. Our mission is to rescue, train, and place service dogs with veterans living with PTSD and anxiety. As our organization continues to expand, we are building a team of passionate professionals committed to helping veterans and their dogs succeed through structured training, consistency, and compassionate support. To date, Dogs2DogTags has delivered more than 9,100 hours of training and successfully paired 40 veteran-dog teams — at no cost to the veterans we serve. This is more than a job. It's an opportunity to be part of a growing organization where your work directly impacts veterans, dogs, and the future of our program every single day. Position Overview Dogs2DogTags is seeking a passionate, organized leader to join our team as the Foster & Young Dog Development Manager — a newly created role designed to support the continued growth of our program. This position serves as the heartbeat of our foster and young dog development program. The Foster & Young Dog Development Manager will oversee our foster network, guide the development of young service dog prospects, and help ensure consistency throughout the critical middle phase of training — bridging the gap between rescue intake and veteran placement. This role combines program management, volunteer leadership, canine evaluations, and hands-on oversight within a structured service dog program environment. Key Responsibilities Management & Program Leadership Recruit, vet, and manage foster homes and puppy raisers Conduct foster home visits and ongoing evaluations Exercise independent judgment regarding dog progression, placement readiness, and foster suitability Develop and implement structured training protocols and program standards Conduct canine evaluations and behavioral assessments Support consistency across all foster homes and development stages Make progression and placement recommendations aligned with program standards Operational & Training Support Lead group instructional sessions as part of program oversight Monitor canine progress and volunteer/veteran handling skills Oversee facility sanitation and canine care protocols Maintain consistency in training standards and program structure Qualifications & Experience Required Qualifications Minimum of five (5) years of hands-on, professional dog training experience in a structured environment Professional certifications are valued; however, extensive real-world, hands-on experience is required. Online-only training certifications without practical application will not be considered. Strong understanding of canine behavior, development, and foundational obedience training Experience implementing or following structured training protocols or curriculum Proven ability to manage multiple dogs while maintaining consistent training standards Experience leading, coaching, or managing volunteers or teams Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills Ability to balance administrative responsibilities with hands-on program oversight Valid driver's license with a driving record that meets insurance requirements Preferred Qualifications Experience working within a foster-based or volunteer-driven dog program Experience with service dog development, evaluation, or placement programs Experience working with veterans or veteran-serving organizations Experience developing SOPs, training protocols, or program documentation Experience in nonprofit operations or volunteer management Additional Requirements Ability to operate an organization-owned vehicle for public access training This is an on-site position based in Plymouth, Wisconsin Candidates must be able to reliably commute to the training facility Preference given to candidates located in Wisconsin or the Midwest Physical Requirements Ability to handle dogs of various sizes and strength levels Standing, walking, stooping, bending, and carrying up to 25 pounds Ability to lift up to 50 pounds Ability to work indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions Schedule Full-time position averaging 40-50 hours per week Flexible schedule with predictable start and stop times May include evenings, weekends, and holidays based on program needs Compensation & Benefits $50,000 annual salary (exempt) Paid Time Off Paid Personal and Sick Days Employer-paid Short-Term Disability, Long-Term Disability, and Life Insurance Potential dental and vision insurance options Opportunity for professional growth within a mission-driven organization To Apply Please submit your resume and cover letter outlining your relevant experience to: HR@d2dt.org Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Pay:

From $50,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Flexible schedule Life insurance Paid time off

Work Location:

In person