Dog Trainer/ Kennel Tech, Part-time or Full

Sunland Acres; Fruit Cove (FL); On-site; USD 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Employee discounts

Flexible schedule

Opportunity for advancement

Paid time off

Training & development

Tuition assistance

Job summary

Sunland Acres is seeking a Kennel Technician / Dog Trainer in Florida to provide hands-on kennel care and deliver professional dog training as part of board-and-train and enrichment programs. You will be responsible for keeping dogs safe, clean, and mentally stimulated while advancing training progress.

Responsibilities include conducting structured training sessions, safely handling dogs of all sizes, monitoring behavior, and following SOPs.

Qualifications

• Prior experience in dog training or behavior preferred.
• Prior experience working with dogs required.
• Knowledge of basic obedience training principles and humane handling techniques.
• Strong communication and observation skills.
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced, physically active setting.
• Flexible availability, including weekends and holidays.

Responsibilities

• Conduct structured dog training sessions as assigned, including basic obedience, leash manners, behavior shaping, and enrichment activities
• Safely handle dogs of all sizes and temperaments during training and daily care
• Monitor dogs for behavioral progress, challenges, or training plateaus and report observations to leadership
• Maintain training standards and follow approved training methods and protocols
• Provide daily kennel care when not assigned to training duties, including feeding, cleaning, and monitoring dog health and behavior
• Assist with dog movement throughout the facility for training, playtime, enrichment, grooming, or boarding needs
• Assist the front desk team with dog check-in and check-out processes as needed
• Follow all standard operating procedures (SOPs) and safety protocols
• Execute all responsibilities in alignment with the company’s core values and mission

Skills

Dog training

Dog handling

Communication

Observation skills

Physical stamina

Job description

Benefits:

• Employee discounts
• Flexible schedule
• Opportunity for advancement
• Paid time off
• Training & development
• Tuition assistance

Position Overview

The Kennel Technician / Dog Trainer is a dual-role position responsible for providing hands-on kennel care while also delivering professional dog training services as part of the facility’s board-and-train and enrichment programs. Reporting to the Shift Lead and General Manager, this role helps ensure dogs are safe, well-cared for, mentally stimulated, and progressing in their training while boarding at the facility.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct structured dog training sessions as assigned, including basic obedience, leash manners, behavior shaping, and enrichment activities
• Safely handle dogs of all sizes and temperaments during training and daily care
• Monitor dogs for behavioral progress, challenges, or training plateaus and report observations to leadership
• Maintain training standards and follow approved training methods and protocols
• Provide daily kennel care when not assigned to training duties, including feeding, cleaning, and monitoring dog health and behavior
• Assist with dog movement throughout the facility for training, playtime, enrichment, grooming, or boarding needs
• Assist the front desk team with dog check-in and check-out processes as needed
• Follow all standard operating procedures (SOPs) and safety protocols
• Execute all responsibilities in alignment with the company’s core values and mission

Qualifications

• Prior experience in dog training or behavior preferred
• Prior experience working with dogs required
• Knowledge of basic obedience training principles and humane handling techniques
• Strong communication and observation skills
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced, physically active setting
• Flexible availability, including weekends and holidays

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, lift, and reach throughout the workday
• Ability to safely handle dogs of various sizes and strength levels
• Comfortable working in a kennel and training environment with noise, odors, and cleaning chemicals