Head of Puppy Programs & Training Impact

Canine Companions; Santa Rosa (CA); On-site; USD 85,000 - 95,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Employer-Paid Health Coverage

Paid Time Off and Holidays

403(b) Retirement Plan

Volunteer hours funding

Diversity & Inclusion Committee

Job summary

Canine Companions seeks an Apprentice Instructor to oversee Regional Puppy Programs, supervise managers, and guide volunteer puppy-raising education across national initiatives. The role supports the puppy distribution system and collaborates with veterinary and health teams to ensure policy-aligned training.

You will create and update program materials, coordinate national meetings, and represent Canine Companions at events.

Qualifications

• Strong verbal and written communication skills, including public speaking.
• Ability to multitask and manage time effectively while maintaining organization.
• Ability to travel to regional centers for staff and workshop support; conferences and events to represent Canine Companions.
• Ability to manage, network and motivate staff, volunteers, and clientele.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to maintain detailed records and meet deadlines.
• Experience with dog training and behavior, animal health, teaching, public speaking, and disability awareness and sensitivity.
• Prior dog handling and training experience required.

Responsibilities

• Oversee Regional Puppy Programs including providing supervision and training to Regional Puppy Program Managers and staff.
• Oversee volunteer puppy raising education programs including puppy raiser, leadership, and college/prison specialty programs.
• Plan and organize puppy arrivals and turn-ins to meet regional and national needs.
• Develop content for Puppy Program manuals, workshops, and communications; update materials as needed.
• Coordinate regular meetings with staff to address topics and issues; represent Canine Companions externally at events.

Skills

Verbal communication

Written communication

Public speaking

Multitasking

Time management

Travel

Staff motivation

Organizational skills

Dog training knowledge

Disability awareness

Team leadership

Education

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience

Tools

CRM software

TIS systems

Job description

Canine Companions seeks an Apprentice Instructor to oversee Regional Puppy Programs, supervise managers, and guide volunteer puppy-raising education across national initiatives. The role supports the puppy distribution system and collaborates with veterinary and health teams to ensure policy-aligned training.

You will create and update program materials, coordinate national meetings, and represent Canine Companions at events.