Dog Trainer

Petco; Rockford (IL); On-site; USD 16,531 - 26,863; Part time

Job summary

Petco is seeking a Certified Dog Trainer in Rockford, Illinois, focused on enhancing guest interactions and providing quality training. Responsibilities include one-on-one training sessions, group classes, and engaging with clients to recommend pet wellness solutions. Ideal candidates are passionate about animal care and training, possess strong communication skills, and have the ability to work with dogs safely.

The position offers a salary range of $12.00 to $19.50 per hour, with an emphasis on team collaboration and excellence in guest service.

Qualifications

• Passion for animal care, training, and welfare.
• Flexibility to work weekends, evenings, and holidays.
• Physical stamina to stand, walk, bend, and lift up to 50 pounds.

Responsibilities

• Provide one-on-one training sessions and group classes.
• Engage guests for solutions on pet health and wellness.
• Maintain records of training sessions and guest feedback.
• Ensure safety protocols for partners, guests, and pets.

Skills

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Ability to handle dogs safely

Organizational skills

Job description

Position Overview

As a Petco Certified Dog Trainer, you will enhance the bond between pet parents and their dogs by providing one‑on‑one training sessions, group classes, and personalized training plans. You will also engage guests to offer 360‑degree solutions for pet health and wellness, recommending nutrition, services, and supplies.

Position Responsibilities

• Attend and successfully pass Petco’s 6‑week Dog Trainer Instructor Program.
• Complete all assigned Workday Learning modules and DTIP Student Workbook materials per the DTIP roadmap.
• Recommend and sell appropriate dog training classes, training, and supplies.
• Keep accurate records of training sessions, progress, and pet parents’ feedback.
• Maintain confidentiality and professionalism.
• Work cross‑functionally with grooming and veterinary teams to provide holistic whole‑health solutions.
• Apply ongoing training programs to maintain expertise.
• Provide outstanding guest experience by engaging guests in the recommendation and selection of merchandise and services.
• Generate future business through deep understanding of guests and their pets.
• Demonstrate awareness and knowledge of animal health, welfare, and handling.
• Perform related duties to support the Pet Care Center in achieving its performance goals.
• Ensure merchandise is stocked, priced, and displayed effectively.
• Complete cash register transactions and support guests with their omni shopping experience.
• Adhere to established operational guidelines, policies, and procedures.
• Promote a positive culture of teamwork, inclusion, and collaboration.
• Complete other duties and special projects as assigned.
• Evaluate guest inquiries and refer to the Leader on Duty as needed.

Other Essential Duties

• Utilize selling behaviors to identify and solve guest needs.
• Maintain safety protocols to protect partners, guests, and pets.
• Be a part of a collaborative culture focused on pet health and wellness.
• Engage in career development opportunities throughout your career.

Certification Requirements

• Stage 1: Complete the Dog Training Instructor Program (DTIP) – 6‑week instructor‑led learning.
• Stage 2: Successfully run and grow the dog training business at a Pet Care Center with local and national marketing support.
• Stage 3: Complete the Health & Wellness Certification Program for Dogs.
• Candidates with prior experience may be eligible for accelerated training if they pass skill and knowledge assessments.

Basic Qualifications

• Passion for animal care, training, and welfare.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to handle and work with dogs of all sizes, ages, and breeds safely and humanely.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple tasks.
• Flexibility to work weekends, evenings, and holidays as needed.
• Physical stamina to stand, walk, bend, and lift heavy objects (up to 50 pounds).
• Familiarity with computer systems and software for managing training records and schedules.

Supervisory Responsibility

None

Salary Range

Hourly rate: $12.00 – $19.50 (start rate: $15.00)

Petco Animal Supplies, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or any other protected classification.