Job Description

Job Description

Job Description

Title: Public Dog Trainer

FLSA Status: Non-union, Non-exempt; Part time (5-7 hrs/week)

Salary: Starting at $31.25 per hour (DOE)

Who we are: Peninsula Humane Society & SPCA (PHS/SPCA) is a local, private, non-profit charitable organization dedicated to animal welfare. It is our mission is to build healthy relationships between people and animals. PHS/SPCA is truly an open admission shelter, not only accepting many pet animals who might be refused at other shelters, but also taking care of injured and orphaned native wildlife from San Francisco through San Mateo and the northern half of Santa Clara County. Our work means 6,300 lives saved each year. Our Behavior Department uses positive reinforcement training techniques only. To learn more about us, visit

Who you are: Someone that truly believes in animal welfare and positive reinforcement techniques. You have excellent customer service skills and previous dog training experience. Last, but not least, you enjoy sharing your training techniques with the public to strengthen the bond between them and their dogs.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following (other duties may be assigned) :

• Work with puppies and adult dogs on basic and advanced obedience in a class and playgroup environment
• Lead classes consisting of up to 8 clients and/or puppy playgroups consisting of up to 15 puppies.
• Conduct all classes and consults using positive reinforcement training techniques.
• Demonstrate flexibility according to the specific requirements for individual classes and/or clients. Conduct all classes and consults in a professional manner.
• Enthusiastically lead a dog training class or puppy playgroup to keep clients motivated and engaged.
• Demonstrate knowledge of appropriate puppy play styles. Observe and tactfully explain to owners about appropriate play demonstrate good judgement about when to intervene during off-leash puppy play.
• Communicate with Department staff and/or Lead Trainer on issues related to scheduling, client concerns, curricula, etc. in a timely manner. Solicit feedback from clients as appropriate.
• Attend and participate in mandatory trainings and Department meetings as needed.
• Ensure work environment is maintained in a neat, clean and safe manner before and after each class.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Upon hire, must pass a background check.
• Bachelor's degree (B.A.) from four-year college or university; or one to two years related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Must be experienced in positive reinforcement training techniques, with a minimum of 2 years dog training experience.
• Trainer certification (APDT, CPDT, IAABC, etc.) and/or knowledge of or experience teaching Dog Agility preferred.
• Must have customer service and previous animal handling and behavior experience.
• Ability to work well with and communicate effectively both orally and in writing with the public, staff and volunteers. Must possess excellent written and verbal communication skills, possess outstanding customer service skills, and be reliable with a strong work ethic.
• Must be available to facilitate class on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 5:30pm-8:00pm. Opportunity to add consults if desired and/or experience reflects ability to do so.
• Comfortable assisting clients with common behavior issues such as but not limited to housetraining, separation anxiety, dog-dog reactivity, and fear also a plus.
• Ability to clearly communicate information to public clients and staff via phone and e-mail, as well as compassionately and patiently assist them with dog behavior issues.

Available to all employees with pets:

• Free vaccines, spay/neuter, microchipping, and two pet adoptions.
• Discounted euthanasia services/cremation, bloodwork, urinalysis, prescription food, and discounts at our retail stores.

For more information about our available job opportunities and how to apply, please visit our website at

The Peninsula Humane Society & SPCA is an equal opportunity employer. We consider applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, national origin, age, disability, marital or veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other legally protected status. EOE/M/F/D/V/SO

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