Dog Care Assistant (Trainee)

JobStart Scheme; Newtownabbey; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Part time

Job summary

A dog daycare facility in Newtownabbey is seeking enthusiastic Dog Care Assistant Trainees to join their team. This hands-on role involves supervising dogs, assisting with daily care routines, and maintaining hygiene standards. Candidates should have a genuine interest in animal welfare and possess good communication and teamwork skills. Training will be provided throughout employment, with flexible working hours available.

Qualifications

• Genuine interest in working with animals and improving their welfare.
• Ability to follow instructions and work safely.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Capable of performing physical tasks such as cleaning and handling dogs.
• Previous experience with animals preferred.
• Interest in pursuing a career in animal care or related fields.

Responsibilities

• Assist with supervision of dogs in playgroups.
• Support daily care routines including feeding and cleaning.
• Maintain high hygiene standards across the facility.
• Assist in setting up play areas.
• Observe dog behavior and report concerns.
• Greet clients and provide professional service.

Skills

Genuine interest in working with animals

Ability to follow instructions

Good communication skills

Teamwork skills

Customer service experience

Job description

THE EMPLOYER IS: K9 CLUBHOUSE LTDK9 Clubhouse is a professional dog day care facility providing safe, structured, and enriching play and care for dogs of all sizes and breeds. We are offering an opportunity for enthusiastic people to join our team as Dog Care Assistant Trainees through the JobStart Scheme.This is a hands‑on role where participants will gain valuable experience in dog handling, welfare monitoring, teamwork, customer service, and workplace communication. Full training and mentoring will be provided throughout.

Responsibilities

• Assist with the supervision of dogs in playgroups, ensuring safe and positive interactions.
• Support daily care routines including feeding, cleaning, and enrichment.
• Maintain high hygiene standards across all areas of the facility.
• Assist in setting up and tidying indoor and outdoor play areas.
• Observe dog behaviour and report any concerns to senior staff.
• Greet clients during drop‑off and collection times and provide friendly, professional service.
• Follow all health, safety, and welfare protocols.
• Carry out general housekeeping duties to support smooth day‑to‑day operations.

Skills and Qualifications

• Genuine interest in working with animals and improving their welfare.
• Ability to follow instructions and work safely.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Capable of performing physical tasks such as cleaning and handling dogs.
• Previous experience (paid or voluntary) with animals, such as pet sitting, walking, or volunteering at a shelter.
• Basic understanding of animal behaviour and welfare.
• Interest in pursuing a career in animal care, veterinary support, or related fields.
• Customer service experience or confidence speaking with the public.

Further Information

The Employer is: K9 CLUBHOUSE LTDJobstart Opportunity - Working Hours Information- Standard Hours: up to 25 hours per week.- Flexible/Reduced Hours: May be available upon approval by a Work Coach.- Additional Hours: The employer may offer extra hours depending on availability. This should be discussed directly with the employer before starting employment.The job advert may end before the closing date if requested by the employer.

Application Information

JOBSTART IS OPEN TO WORKING AGE BENEFIT CLAIMANTS WHO ARE DEEMED ELIGIBLE BY A WORK COACH. If you are on Universal Credit, please contact your Work Coach via your Journal. If you are in receipt of any other working age benefit, please contact your local Jobs & Benefits Office on 0800 001 5782.