Van Sitter

Dogs Inc; Florida; On-site; USD 30,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

Dogs Inc is seeking a Van Sitter to ensure safety and care of dogs in training vans, support trainers, and represent the organization in public engagements.

You will monitor dogs, maintain vehicle readiness, assist with grooming, and collaborate with the training team across campus and field routes.

This role requires physical ability to handle large dogs, work outdoors, and uphold confidentiality and professional standards.

Qualifications

• Basic knowledge of dog behavior and handling.
• Genuine care for the well-being of dogs in training and dedication to the mission of Dogs Inc.
• Good communication interpersonal skills.
• Ability to handle confidential and sensitive information with discretion.

Responsibilities

• Relieve dogs on leash prior to training routes; relief is to be bagged and disposed of properly.
• Adhere to any instructions given by trainers for individual dogs.
• Adhere to all safe dog handling protocols.
• Give appropriate water breaks to dogs before and after relief and as needed.
• Observe dog behaviors watching for signs of stress, heat, illness, or injury and notify trainers immediately.
• Assist with dog grooming as needed.
• Attend to any dog in distress when trainers are not present.
• Maintain confidentiality of our dogs in training including medical and training information.
• Always remain in visual proximity to the training van, no more than 30 yards from the vehicle.
• Ensure the vehicle remains at a safe temperature for the dogs inside.

Skills

Dog handling

Dog behavior

Communication

Discretion

Job description

The Van Sitter is responsible for the safety, well-being, and care of Dogs Inc dogs while they are housed in training vans. This position also supports trainers by ensuring the safe operation, security, and readiness of the training vehicle while dogs are being worked.As a forward-facing representative of Dogs Inc, the Van Sitter plays an important role in engaging with the public and educating others about the organization’s mission.RESPONSIBILITESDog Care and SafetyRelieve dogs on leash prior to training routes (relief is to be bagged and disposed of properly)Adhere to any instructions given by trainers for individual dogsAdhere to all safe dog handling protocolsGive appropriate water breaks to dogs before and after relief and as neededAdhere to Dogs Inc training methods of primarily positive reinforcement and use of food rewardObserve dog behaviors watching for signs of stress, heat, illness, or injury and notify trainers immediatelyAssist with dog grooming as neededAttend to any dog in distress when trainers are not presentMaintain confidentiality of our dogs in training including medical and training informationVehicle Care and ResponsibilityAlways remain in visual proximity to the training van, no more than 30 yards from the vehicleEnsure the vehicle remains at a safe temperature for the dogs inside. This may include opening or closing van doors and running air conditioning/heating as needed.Adhere to all safety protocols when entering and exiting a vehicle with or without a dogEnter the vehicle frequently to ensure the air conditioning/heat is functioning properly, and dogs are not in distressAssist trainers with backing up/parking as neededAssist trainers with dog safety vehicle checks as neededSweep training van aisles and crates of dirt, sand, and dog hair dailyCross-Functional CollaborationRepresent Dogs Inc professionally when interacting with members of the publicProvides members of the public with information and education on the mission of Dogs IncParticipate in interdisciplinary meetings and contribute to continuous program improvement.Maintains a collaborative, positive attitude; accepts feedback, works independently with initiative, follows instructions, and demonstrates reliability through strong attendance.JOB SKILL & KNOWLEDGE REQUIREDBasic knowledge of dog behavior and handlingGenuine care for the well-being of dogs in training and dedication to the mission of Dogs IncGood communication interpersonal skillsAbility to handle confidential and sensitive information with discretionADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTSPhysical Requirements: Ability to safely handle large breed dogs, ability to lift up to 100 lbs with assistance, walk multiple miles per day, and work indoors/outdoors in varying conditionsWork Environment: Campus-based with field routes, kennels. Primarily outdoor work environment.Supervision: Reports to the Guide Dog Program Director.QUALITIES OF SUCCESSDemonstrates professionalism, reliability, and accountability.Works steadily with minimal supervision while contributing to a team-oriented culture.Welcomes feedback and maintains a positive, mission-driven attitude.Shows initiative and flexibility in a dynamic environment.Maintains exceptional attendance and punctuality.WORKING RELATIONSThis role collaborates regularly with training departments and represents Dogs Inc to the public.COMMITMENT TO CAMPUS STANDARDSAll Dogs Inc employees share responsibility for maintaining a safe, clean, and welcoming environment. Staff are expected to assist guests and volunteers, report or resolve safety concerns, and exemplify the organization’s values in all interactions.Resource Development & MarketingAt Dogs Inc, every team member helps tell our story. We may occasionally ask you to welcome guests, support tours, or talk about your work. These moments power our fundraising, strengthen our mission, and help sustain your pay and benefits. It’s something we share—and take pride in.