The Arizona Animal Welfare League (AAWL) – the largest and oldest no-kill shelter in Arizona – is seeking a part time Dog Trainer who has a passion for animal welfare and want to directly impact AAWL’s life saving mission. The Dog Trainer position facilitates and leads dog training class participants using positive reinforcement training programs and workshops, including conducting group classes and private lessons. The Dog Trainer is responsible for handling registration check-ins, customer service, identifying client needs, as well as supervising all class participants to ensure the safety of all people and animals participating in the classes. The Trainer is responsible for preparation and delivery of engaging behavior and training programs to the public. Training programs include dogs of all breeds, sizes, temperaments and training challenges, many coming from a shelter or rescue setting with unknown backgrounds. This position requires the ability to handle multiple programs at the same time period, while also paying attention to detail. Trainers must be available to work evenings and weekends. The Trainer will interact with clients as AAWL’s representative and must communicate and work compassionately with diverse members of our community, including people that may be handling challenging situations involving their pets.
Dog Trainers work 1 weekend day and 1 evening per week, as class schedules demand. Part Time Dog Training positions range from 6 – 13 hours per week, 1 weekend day/week is required and may alternate from month to month.
Responsibilities
· Effectively teach a wide variety of training and behavior classes.
· Create a fun, engaging, and safe group class experience for human clients and dogs.
· Identify client needs and assist with a variety of behavior concerns.
· Communicate regularly, effectively, and professionally with class participants and AAWL staff and volunteers.
· Set up classroom for classes and workshops, tear down post class to include cleaning & sanitizing.
· Provide on-site and off-site private lessons.
· Handle conflict resolution, should a situation arise between clients.
Qualifications
A minimum of 1 year experience teaching dog training/obedience in a group setting preferred. Current dog training certification or pursuing a degree in the area of animal behavior or pursuing equivalent certification through a trade school. Possession of CCPDT, APDT or similar membership preferred. Applicant must demonstrate a commitment to AAWL’s mission and values, including supporting our focus on positive reinforcement training and must possess top-notch customer service skills. Clean driving record and 21+ insurance requirement to support off-site private lessons.
Requirements
Requires periodic sitting at a computer station with prolonged standing and walking. Use of personal computer, phone and general office equipment. Must be comfortable handling dogs and cats daily on a continuous basis. Will be exposed to disinfectant solutions and subject to bites and scratches while handling animals of questionable temperament. Requires normal range of hearing and eyesight to communicate with animals, the public, volunteers, and staff. Also requires flexibility to readily adapt to a fast-paced changing environment and the ability to work weekends and holidays.
To Apply for This Position
submit a resume and cover letter to SSkromme@aawl.org . In your subject line, please reference “Dog Trainer” in your email. No phone calls or walk-ins, please.
Employment Details
AAWL offers compensation that is commensurate with experience and competitive with animal welfare salaries. This position pays $20/hour. Part-time, non-exempt positions accrue paid sick time and twelve paid holidays.
