Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT)

Humane Society for Southwest Washington; Vancouver (WA); On-site; USD 25,000 - 39,000; Part time

Job summary

Humane Society for Southwest Washington seeks a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT) for a part‑time position (20–25 hours per week) in Vancouver, WA. The role focuses on developing and delivering training programs, supporting adopted and foster dogs, and reducing shelter intakes through proactive education.

The ideal candidate has experience in positive reinforcement training, program design, and group facilitation with strong communication skills.

Qualifications

• CPDT certification in positive reinforcement dog training or equivalent.
• Experience addressing behavioral challenges and leading group classes.
• Strong communication skills for diverse audiences.
• Valid driver’s license with insurable driving record.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement education and behavior training programs with leadership input.
• Plan and conduct group training sessions for the public (puppy and adult classes).
• Develop training plans to prevent surrender and support foster and adopters.
• Collaborate with shelter staff and marketing to share educational content.
• Provide tailored training to foster caregivers and monitor progress.

Skills

Positive reinforcement training

Group training facilitation

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Valid driver’s license

Job description

Description

The Humane Society for Southwest Washington is currently seeking a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT) to join our team. This is part-time (20 - 25 hours per week) FLSA nonexempt employment opportunity.

Since 1897, HSSW has been the leader in animal welfare across Southwest Washington. With an annual operating budget of $15 million, we are the largest and most innovative animal welfare organization in the region. Our shelter campuses in Vancouver and Longview, WA serve more than 10,000 animals each year, providing high-quality care, medical services, and the compassion they deserve.

Our community-based approach helps keep pets and people together. Through the Nierenberg Community Veterinary Clinic, the Sandra Richardson Miller Mobile Veterinary Clinic, the Swigert Family Behavior & Training Center, and programs like free pet food and other essential resources, we serve more than 18,000 owned animals annually expanding access to affordable veterinary care, spay/neuter, training, and support.

We also own and operate ReTails Thrift Store, a top shopping destination named Best Thrift Store in Clark County for eight consecutive years, providing vital funding for our mission.

At HSSW, you’ll find an innovative, high-energy culture where your passion for animals and people can make a real difference. We’re looking for team members who want to be part of something bigger: supporting pets, strengthening families, and shaping the future of animal welfare in Southwest Washington. HSSW has been honored as Best Non-Profit for two years running - a recognition of our impact and leadership in the community.

Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT)

The Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT) will play a vital role in enhancing the well-being of dogs in our care and in the community. This position focuses on developing and delivering behavior training programs, supporting newly adopted and fostered dogs, and helping keep pets with their families. The ideal candidate is experienced in positive reinforcement training, program design, and group facilitation, with excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Key Responsibilities:

Program Development & Implementation

• Collaborate with the VP of Operations to design and implement education and behavior training programs aligned with HSSW’s mission and philosophy.

Group Classes

• Plan and conduct group training sessions for the public, including puppy and adult dog classes, emphasizing positive reinforcement, socialization, and obedience.

Surrender Prevention

• Develop and deliver training plans to support families considering surrendering their dogs, reducing shelter intakes.

Post-Adoption Support

• Provide tailored training and behavior support to adopters, ensuring successful transitions for dogs and families.

Foster Support

• Create individualized training plans for foster caregivers to address behavioral challenges and improve dogs’ adoptability.

Collaboration & Reporting

• Communicate regularly with shelter staff and leadership, providing updates on training programs, foster dog progress, and post-adoption support.
• Partner with marketing to create educational content for email, social media, and community outreach

Position Requirements

• Certification: Recognized certification in positive reinforcement dog training.
• Experience: Proficiency in addressing behavioral challenges (e.g., reactivity, anxiety, resource guarding) and leading group training classes.
• Communication Skills: Strong ability to convey training concepts to diverse audiences in both individual and group settings.
• Valid driver’s license with HSSW insurable driving record. (Motor Vehicle Records Check required)

Working Conditions

• Work is performed in conjunction with an animal shelter that operates seven days per week, with exposure to environmental conditions that include working with animals.
• There is potential exposure to fractious animals, high-noise levels, zoonotic diseases, animal bites and scratches, cleaning chemicals, allergens, and potential exposure of infectious diseases to self and personally owned animals.
• Work is conducted in both indoor and outdoor settings, including training centers, parks, and other agreed-upon locations.
• Outdoor work may involve exposure to varying weather conditions such as heat, cold, wind, or rain.
• Handling dogs of various breeds, sizes, and temperaments, requiring physical strength, stamina, and agility.

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only