Pet Trainer I

National Veterinary Associates; Purcellville (VA); On-site; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive benefits program

401k with employer match

Paid time off including sick time

Job summary

A leading pet care organization seeks a skilled Canine Behavior & Training Specialist in Purcellville, Virginia. The specialist will lead group and individual training sessions, educating pet parents on canine behavior truths while ensuring a positive environment. Candidates should have a minimum of one year of experience in canine training and a strong understanding of contemporary training methods. NVA is committed to professional growth, offering a collaborative work culture that values pet welfare, providing an impactful opportunity to enhance pet and owner relationships.

Qualifications

• Minimum one year of professional experience in canine training or animal behavior.
• Strong understanding of modern reinforcement-based training techniques.
• Exceptional communication skills to instruct clients effectively.
• Ability to manage diverse canine personalities calmly.

Responsibilities

• Facilitate engaging group classes and customized training sessions.
• Educate clients on canine behavior and training expectations.
• Manage a secure and low-stress training environment.
• Provide actionable feedback to pet parents for long-term bonding.
• Engage in ongoing on-the-job training to stay current with methods.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Knowledge of operant conditioning

Adaptability to canine personalities

Adaptability

Job description

Position Overview We are seeking a highly skilled Canine Behavior & Training Specialist to join our team. This role is designed for a professional who integrates advanced learning theory with a hands-on, empathetic approach to pet education. You will be responsible for facilitating both group curricula and private instructional sessions, serving as a primary resource for pet parents seeking to enhance their bond and communication with their dogs.

The ideal candidate will prioritize psychological safety and physical comfort, ensuring that the training process is a positive, supportive experience for all participants.

Key Responsibilities

Instructional Leadership: Facilitate engaging, curriculum-based group classes and customized individual training sessions for a diverse range of breeds, ages, and temperaments.

Behavioral Advocacy: Utilize comprehensive knowledge of learning theory to educate clients on canine behavior, promoting patience and realistic expectations throughout the developmental process.

Safety & Environment Management: Maintain a secure and low-stress training environment, proactively managing group dynamics to ensure the comfort of both pets and their owners.

Client Engagement: Act as a professional consultant for pet parents, providing actionable feedback and demonstrating training techniques that foster long-term success and bonding.

Continuous Development: Participate in ongoing on-the-job training to stay current with evolving industry standards and evidence-based training methodologies.

Professional Qualifications

Experience: A minimum of one year of professional, job-related experience in canine training or animal behavior is required.

Technical Knowledge: Strong foundational understanding of operant conditioning, classical conditioning, and modern reinforcement-based training techniques.

Communication: Exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability to translate complex behavioral concepts into accessible, encouraging instruction for clients.

Adaptability: Proven ability to manage a variety of canine personalities and client needs with professionalism and composure.

Our Commitment

We provide a collaborative professional environment where expertise is respected and pet welfare is the cornerstone of our mission. This position offers the opportunity to make a tangible impact on the lives of pets and the families who love them.

National Veterinary Associates is a leading global pet care organization united in the love of animals and the people who love them.

At NVA, we’re on a mission to improve the lives of pets and the people who love them. That starts by empowering our care teams. We nurture their growth with resources to practice medicine their way. Our network of 1,000 hospitals connects them to a community of professionals who share their passion so they can learn and grow together. Our national presence enables us to deliver technology and innovations that simplify work and expand care for all. At NVA, we're committed to your professional growth. We support your entire career journey, offering opportunities ranging from mentorship to ownership.

At National Veterinary Associates, we want to make sure your experience connecting with us is seamless and straightforward. Here’s what to expect when interacting with us:

• We’ll always reach out via verified LinkedIn profiles or emails ending in @nva.com
• All job opportunities and applications are hosted on our official careers site: careers.nva.com
• There is no cost or confidential information required to apply or be considered for a position

If you have any doubts about a communication, feel free to visit our careers page to verify authenticity or email us at [e-mail]. Thank you for exploring opportunities at NVA!

NVA offers a comprehensive benefits program including medical, dental, vision, a 401k with employer match, and paid time off (including sick time) for all eligible employees. The team can provide more information about compensation and benefits for your specific location during the process. For positions based in Colorado, NVA provides eligible employees with paid sick and safe leave and public health emergency leave in accordance with the requirements of Colorado's Healthy Families and Workplaces Act.

NVA 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, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information. Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and any other state or local hiring regulations, we will consider for employment any qualified applicant, including those with arrest and conviction records, in a manner consistent with the applicable regulation.