Training Assistant

NOVA Canine Academy LLC; Alexandria (VA); Hybrid; USD 33,000 - 43,000; Full time

Job summary

NOVA Canine Academy LLC in Alexandria, VA is seeking a Training Assistant to join our board & train program and support a growing team. You will help manage daily training routines and develop strong, consistent training habits in dogs under the supervision of an experienced trainer.

This role offers hands-on experience with a variety of dogs, opportunities to learn from Ethan Steinberg, and a structured training environment that emphasizes safety, reliability, and effective communication.

Qualifications

• Some prior experience working with dogs or in a training environment.
• Must have reliable transportation and be able to commute to Alexandria, VA daily.
• Strong communication skills and ability to follow detailed instructions.
• Passion for dog training and willingness to learn and grow.

Responsibilities

• Assist with placeboard training, basic obedience, extended stay, and leash work.
• Maintain safe, comfortable, and engaged dogs during sessions.
• Record detailed training logs for each dog in the program.
• Keep training areas clean, organized, and prepared for daily activities.
• Communicate progress with the lead trainer and participate in discussions.

Skills

Experience with dogs

Communication skills

Reliability / punctuality

Job description

Location : Alexandria, VA
Hiring Timeline : ASAP
Hours : Full-Time (30-40 hours per week)
Pay : $24-31 per hour
Positions Available: 1
Schedule: Monday - Friday

NOVA Canine Academy is looking for a Training Assistant to join our growing team and support our board & train program. This is a fantastic opportunity to gain hands-on experience with a variety of dogs in a professional, structured training environment. If you have a passion for working with dogs and a desire to learn from an experienced trainer, this role may be perfect for you!

As a Training Assistant, you will work alongside Ethan Steinberg to manage and train dogs in the board & train program. You will assist with daily training routines and help develop strong, consistent training habits in dogs. This position will give you valuable experience in multiple areas of dog training and behavior management.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with placeboard training, basic obedience, extended stay, loose leash walking, heel training, reactivity training, and crate training
• Work with dogs of varying temperaments and behavior issues
• Ensure all dogs are safe, comfortable, and engaged during training sessions
• Assist with maintaining detailed training logs for each dog in the program
• Help keep the training area clean, organized, and well-prepared for daily activities
• Communicate progress with Ethan Steinberg and contribute to training discussions

Ideal Candidate

Experience : Some prior experience working with dogs or in a training environment is preferred

Transportation : Reliable transportation and ability to commute to Alexandria, VA daily

Communication : Strong communication skills and ability to follow detailed instructions

Passion for Training : A love for working with dogs and the drive to learn and grow in the field of dog training

Work Ethic : Hardworking, reliable, and punctual with a commitment to helping dogs succeed

Adaptability : Ability to work in a dynamic environment and adjust to the needs of different dogs

Hands-on experience: Learn directly from Ethan Steinberg, an experienced professional dog trainer with over 1 million followers online
Training opportunities: Gain valuable experience in dog training and behavior modification
Work with diverse dogs: From basic obedience to more complex behavioral issues, you'll encounter a wide range of training scenarios
Supportive environment: Work alongside a passionate team with a shared commitment to dog training excellence

Requirements

• Must be legally allowed to work in the U.S. and located within the Northern, VA area
• Self-motivated and detail-oriented
• Reliable transportation and ability to commute to Alexandria, VA daily
• Some experience with dog training or working with dogs
• Passion for dog training and helping dogs succeed in their training goals