Dog Behavior Trainer & Volunteer Mentor

Austin Pets Alive!; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 20,000 - 29,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Employee Assistance Program

Discounted Perks Programs

Pet Insurance (fully subsidized)

Time off incentives

Job summary

Austin Pets Alive! is seeking a part-time Dog Behavior Trainer to lead hands-on training, socialization, enrichment, and behavior modification for dogs with behavioral challenges. The role collaborates with volunteers to advance the health, safety, and adoptability of APA!

dogs while maintaining organizational values. The position emphasizes hands-on training, data-driven decisions, and teamwork within a volunteer-powered environment.

Qualifications

• Hands-on experience working with dogs in a professional setting.
• Ability to read canine body language and stress signals.
• Commitment to humane, evidence-based training methods.
• Physical ability to handle large, energetic dogs.
• Ability to uphold high safety standards with dogs of all sizes.
• Willingness to work evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Commitment to APA!'s mission and values.

Responsibilities

• Actively contribute to a volunteer-powered culture by partnering with volunteers during every shift.
• Lead behavior consults and adopter meet-and-greets to ensure safe placements.
• Perform formal behavioral assessments and document notes.
• Provide training and mentorship to staff and volunteers on dog behavior.
• Collaborate with medical, adoption, and foster teams to support holistic care.

Skills

Dog handling

Body language reading

Volunteer training

Team collaboration

Safety awareness

Education

CPDT-KA / CBCC-KA certifications

Job description

Austin Pets Alive! is seeking a part-time Dog Behavior Trainer to lead hands-on training, socialization, enrichment, and behavior modification for dogs with behavioral challenges. The role collaborates with volunteers to advance the health, safety, and adoptability of APA!

dogs while maintaining organizational values. The position emphasizes hands-on training, data-driven decisions, and teamwork within a volunteer-powered environment.