Lead K9 Trainer: Service Dogs for Veterans

K9s For Warriors Inc; Ponte Vedra Beach (FL); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

K9s For Warriors Inc. in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL is seeking a Lead K9 Trainer to oversee the training of service dogs for veterans, manage a team of trainers, and ensure program quality.

You will implement training plans, monitor dog progress, maintain records, and ensure public access experiences with dogs in real-world settings.

The role requires formal canine training certification or equivalent, HS diploma, and supervisory experience; readiness to work in a dynamic nonprofit environment.

Qualifications

• HS diploma or equivalent.
• Certification from an accredited dog training school or equivalent relevant work experience.
• Kennel experience preferred.
• Previous supervisory or management experience preferred.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to prioritize and handle multiple tasks.
• Be comfortable being photographed, filmed and other media situations.
• Valid driver’s license and meet policy requirements for company auto insurance.

Responsibilities

• Review training logs, behavior plans, enrichment forms, and class dog summaries for accuracy.
• Document training times into spreadsheet; assist with sponsor updates and class bios.
• Create weekly public access plans and establish training objectives and public access goals.
• Coordinate meetings between K9 Trainers and the Training Manager.
• Independently modify dogs’ behavior and train basic, intermediate, and advanced tasks.
• Provide public access exposure to Service Dogs in training in real-world settings.
• Participate in team training activities and supervise dog playgroups.
• Evaluate dogs’ stress levels and monitor for inappropriate behavior.
• Coordinate feeding schedules and enrichment plans; assist with kennel care.

Skills

Excellent communication skills

Prioritization & multitasking

Media readiness

Valid driver’s license

Supervisory experience

Education

HS diploma or equivalent

Cert from accredited dog training school

Job description

K9s For Warriors Inc. in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL is seeking a Lead K9 Trainer to oversee the training of service dogs for veterans, manage a team of trainers, and ensure program quality.

You will implement training plans, monitor dog progress, maintain records, and ensure public access experiences with dogs in real-world settings.

The role requires formal canine training certification or equivalent, HS diploma, and supervisory experience; readiness to work in a dynamic nonprofit environment.