Job Description
Job Description
K9s For Warriors is the nation’s largest provider of service dogs to veterans suffering from the invisible wounds of war, such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Our unique, in-house program helps change the lives of American heroes by pairing them with a battle buddy, who was likely a rescue dog and then teaching him or her to utilize that dog to mitigate the symptoms of their wounds. In order to continue the great work we are doing, we are in need of a K9 Intake Trainer to join our amazing team!
Roles and Responsibilities
Under the direction and general supervision of the K9 Procurement & Training Assistant Manager, the K9 Intake Trainer is responsible for building training foundations that prepare the dogs in the quarantine kennels, during intake, for service dog training. The training foundation includes but is not limited to clicker conditioning, calm kennel manners, loose lead walking, target training, and focus; based on our protocols, training standards, and standard operating procedures.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Help with intake of new dogs entering quarantine. Providing positive interactions with new dogs to make their transition as comfortable as possible
- Assess new dogs during their intake period and create a training plan
- Set goals for behavior and training outcome at the end of their intake period
- Conduct playgroups with the new intake dogs
- Maintain detailed training, medical and enrichment records per policies and procedures
- Work with other departments to make a smooth transition for the dogs when they finish their intake period
- Assist in the care and health of our canines which consists of training, feeding, breaking, bathing, exercising, enriching, and medicating dogs
- Assist kennel staff in cleaning quarantine and isolation kennels to include, feeding bowls, beds, and provide enrichment when needed
- Assist veterinary staff with intake exams, sample collection, veterinary restraint, and monitoring treatment effectiveness in assigned dogs
- Communicate with other departments regarding the care and training of the new intake dogs
- Must be able to work independently with little or no supervision and always handle oneself in a professional matter
- Understand and abide by best practices related to quarantine and isolation protocols
- Provide assistance with training and breaking of all dogs that fall under the Procurement and Placement department
Other Duties
Provide assistance with training and breaking of career changed dogsTravel to shelters and assess possible candidates with the Procurement teamCross-train in Adoptions and Foster teams to help with on and off-site eventsAssist Procurement team with shelter trainingsAssist with intake and evaluations of Provider dogsWeekend and holiday work may be requiredPerform any other duties as assigned by supervisor or managementQualifications and Education Requirements
High School diploma or equivalentExperience working with purpose-bred and shelter dogs preferredAbility to prioritize and multi-taskComfortable with being photographed, filmed, and other interactions with mediaAbility to work independently and within a group settingTraining experience preferredMust have basic computer literacy skillsMust have 1-2 years of dog handling experienceValid driver’s license and meet policy requirements for company auto insurancePhysical Demands
Walking 3 to 5 miles per day on averageAbility to exert a moderate to extensive amount of physical effort, including stooping, crouching, pushing, pulling, walking stairs, climbing, and lifting up to fifty (50) pounds individually.Exposure to unpleasant odors, sounds, chemicals, loud noises, and inclement weatherCORE COMPETENCIES
AdaptabilityIntegrityPlanning and OrganizingCooperationTuesday-Saturday or Sunday-Thursday.
7 : 00AM-3 : 30PM or 4 : 00PM
Weekends and evenings will be required for eventsFlexibility Required