Training - Certified Group Training Instructor - Casual

Toronto Humane Society; Toronto; On-site; CAD 100,000 - 125,000; Part time

Job summary

An established industry player in animal welfare seeks a Certified Group Training Instructor to lead canine training classes. This role involves teaching group sessions, providing individualized coaching, and ensuring a safe and supportive environment for both dogs and their handlers. The ideal candidate will have a passion for animal care, experience in positive reinforcement training, and excellent communication skills. Join a compassionate team dedicated to improving the lives of animals and fostering a culture of inclusion and respect. This position offers flexible hours and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the community.

Qualifications

• Must pass the Certified Group Training Instructor Examination with at least 80%.
• Minimum 2 years of canine care experience required.

Responsibilities

• Teach group training classes and provide one-on-one coaching.
• Maintain a safe and positive learning environment for dogs and handlers.

Skills

Canine care and enrichment

Positive reinforcement methodology

Learning theory understanding

Communication skills

Teamwork

Patience

Education

Certification as a Group Training Instructor

Tools

Microsoft Office (Teams, Word, Excel, PowerPoint)

Online schedule management apps

Job description

Training - Certified Group Training Instructor - Casual

Tuesday, April 15, 2025

Our Vision: To be a leader in animal welfare, working for a compassionate society where all animals are respected and valued.

Our Mission: To Improve the Lives of Animals.

Job Summary

The Certified Group Class Training Instructor, under the direction of the Senior Manager, Public Services, will be primarily responsible for teaching group canine training classes to public clients. Incumbents may also lead one-on-one training sessions for public clients seeking extra coaching in a one-on-one environment. Duties also include providing case notes and summaries to clients as well as internal record keeping.

The position will deal with members of the public and owned animals.

Main Duties/Responsibilities

• Teach group training classes of up to 6 clients and dogs per class
• Foster an environment of positive reinforcement learning for both dogs and handlers
• Maintain a safe learning environment at all times by monitoring dog body language and arousal levels
• Monitor student participation and manage environment as necessary through use of visual barriers and distance, or direct students with dogs experiencing high FAS or arousal to private training services
• Maintain class attendance lists and conduct student question and answer “office hour” events as required
• Assist with other training services as required
• Foster, promote, support and drive inclusion and influence others to promote, embrace and progress Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at THS.
• Maintain a professional appearance, demeanor, and attitude at all times
• Maintain a high level of confidentiality in all interactions
• Attend and participate in workshops, seminars, and in-service training to further education, skills, and training
• Be aware of and work within the regulations of all Toronto Humane Society policies and protocols
• Work in compliance with the provisions of the OHSA and its regulations including understanding and adhering to the requirements of the Health and Safety Manual and any other rules and regulations established by THS
• Other Duties as required in the day-to-day operation of the Society

Qualifications/Requirements

• Must pass the Toronto Humane Society’s Certified Group Training Instructor Examination with a grade of 80% or more
• Minimum 2+ year’s Canine care and enrichment experience
• Experience teaching or assisting dog training classes using positive reinforcement methodology an asset
• Experience creating and delivering group class curriculum an asset
• Intermediate level learning theory understanding and application competency
• Experience training others in positive reinforcement operant conditioning techniques
• Exhibit patience and a calm demeanor
• Demonstrated ability and comfort working with dogs that have all types of behavioural problems and temperaments
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to work with varying personalities and abilities
• Ability to work individually as well as part of a team
• Proficient in Microsoft Office programs (including Teams, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint)
• Proficient using online schedule management and booking apps

Work Conditions

• Flexible hours including evenings, weekends, and holidays (if required). Hours may change based on demand.
• Attendance and participation in training
• Operation of desktop computer and peripherals
• Ability to work outdoors with animals over extended periods
• Interaction with employees, management, and the public at large
• Working in a busy office environment with frequent interruptions
• Occasional overtime

Performance of essential functions may require exposure to adverse environmental conditions, such as dirt, dust, odors, noise extremes, hazardous materials, bright/dim lights, toxic agents, animal attacks, animal bites, disease, pathogenic substances, or rude/irate customers.

Next Steps

We thank all applicants for their interest in Toronto Humane Society; however, due to the high number of applications we receive, only those selected will be contacted for an interview.