Assistance Dog Trainer

Key Human Services; Harrisburg (Dauphin County); On-site; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is looking for a dedicated Assistance Dog Trainer to help provide life-changing support through trained assistance dogs. In this rewarding role, you will develop and implement training plans tailored to the unique needs of each dog and their partner. Your expertise in positive reinforcement training will be essential as you ensure the dogs' well-being and help them thrive in public settings. This position offers a competitive salary, flexible hours, and a comprehensive benefits package, making it a great opportunity for those passionate about animal training and support services. Join a mission-driven team and make a difference in the lives of individuals with disabilities.

Benefits

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

401K

Generous paid time off

Travel reimbursement

Extensive training opportunities

Career development

Qualifications

• Two years of experience training dogs with positive reinforcement methods.
• Knowledge of dog health and communication is essential.

Responsibilities

• Train assistance dogs using positive reinforcement techniques.
• Develop and implement detailed training plans for dogs.

Skills

Positive reinforcement training

Canine communication

Interpersonal skills

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in related field

Tools

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Outlook

Job description

Susquehanna Service Dogs - Assistance Dog Trainer

Susquehanna Service Dogs is seeking a full time Assistance Dog Trainer to join in our mission of providing assistance dogs that give people the confidence to live more independent lives, doing things they didn’t think possible.

The Assistance Dog Trainer trains dogs to meet the individualized needs of Susquehanna Service Dog partners. This position develops and implements detailed training plans, assesses dogs for placement suitability, supports partners in learning to work with their assistance dog, and transports dogs for training.

Responsibilities Include:

• Train assistance dogs in accordance with Least Intrusive Minimally Aversive principles using positive reinforcement via the clicker method
• Develop, implement and document detailed training plans
• Ensure the physical and mental well-being of the dogs by providing age-appropriate enrichment, as well as recognizing and responding appropriately to dog body language and signs of stress
• Transport dogs to public locations to develop and maintain their public access skills and assistance dog tasks
• Participate in the partner matching process and supports partners in successfully pairing with their assistance dog at the time of placement and throughout the working life of the dog
• Maintain the training area and equipment to assure safety and functionality
• Assist with canine evaluations, client interviews and home visits, puppy program classes and outings as needed
• Full time, non exempt position
• $17.50 per hour, may increase based on education and experience
• Primarily daytime hours with flexibility to meet program needs
• Position requires regular travel to locations throughout the greater Harrisburg area and occasional travel within a 4-hour driving radius of the training facility
• Competitive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, 401K and more
• Generous paid time off program
• Travel Reimbursement
• Extensive training and learning opportunities
• Career development and advancement

Minimum Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Two years of demonstrated training experience working with dogs, including experience using positive reinforcement training
• Knowledge of mental and physical health of dogs and canine communication
• Two years of experience teaching or leading others individually or in groups
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, organization, and administrative skills
• Intermediate computer skills, ability to use Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook and learn web based systems
• Valid driver’s license and daily access to privately maintained and insured vehicle
• Successful completion of pre-employment process, including Criminal History, Child Abuse and FBI clearances

Preferred Qualifications:

• Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in related field
• Dog training certification (i.e. KPA-CTP, CPDT, or IAABC) or equivalent

Keystone Human Services prohibits discrimination against qualified individuals based on their status as protected veterans or individuals with disabilities and prohibits discrimination against all individuals based on any category protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Disclaimer: The preceding job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this job. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job.