Training Director, Dog Training

Training Director, Dog Training Are you a proven training leader who knows how to develop high-performing trainers, drive revenue through service excellence, and deliver safe, effective results for dogs and their owners? We are looking for a full-time Training Director to lead all canine training operations, elevate program quality, develop a strong team of trainers, and create an exceptional client experience. This is not just a hands-on training role. This is a leadership position responsible for training performance, team development, operational oversight, and business growth. Who We Are NVA Pet Resorts is part of National Veterinary Associates (NVA) — the largest private owner of veterinary hospitals and pet resorts in North America, with 1,300+ locations. We compete in an $8B+ and rapidly growing industry as pet parents continue to invest in premium care for their family members. Our mission is simple: Create safe, fun, and loving environments for pets while providing exceptional experiences for our clients and team members. We are looking for a leader who can combine advanced canine behavior expertise with business ownership, team leadership, and community presence to continue building a trusted and high-performing training program. The Role: Training Leader and Business Driver As Training Director, you are the leader of the training department. You are responsible for: Overseeing all canine training operations Maintaining and improving structured training programs Leading, developing, and coaching a team of trainers Driving training revenue and service growth Ensuring a high standard of client communication and satisfaction Upholding safety, animal welfare, and operational standards You own the quality of the training experience and the strategy that helps the department grow. What You’ll Lead Training Programs and Behavioral Outcomes Maintain, optimize, and elevate the execution of training programs, including obedience, socialization, and behavior modification Support the development of customized training plans for more complex behavioral issues, including aggression and anxiety Audit the training team on delivery quality and client communication, including intakes, outtakes, and follow-up consultations Evaluate training program effectiveness and adjust strategies based on outcomes and client feedback Ensure training methodologies align with company standards around positive reinforcement, force-free practices, and other approved training methods Sales and Revenue Growth Support revenue goals through program development, upselling training services, and client retention Develop trainers’ client communication skills, sales mindset, and business-building practices Collaborate with front-of-house teams so they can confidently educate clients on training offerings Identify opportunities to expand services, packages, and specialty training programs Develop and implement new training offerings to grow the department’s service portfolio Oversee outreach and business-building practices through reporting and client follow-up Hold the team accountable for time management, scheduling, and calendar organization Team Development Recruit, hire, onboard, and train both junior and senior trainers Provide ongoing coaching, mentorship, and performance evaluations Create weekly schedules and ensure proper staffing and service delivery Validate timekeeping and support accurate reporting related to commissions, tips, or other incentive structures if applicable Address employee concerns, resolve conflict, and foster a positive team culture Build a department that is accountable, professional, and focused on continuous improvement Client Experience Oversee trainer consultations to understand client goals and behavioral concerns Ensure training plans, progress updates, and recommendations are communicated clearly and professionally Promote pet parent education around reinforcement techniques and long-term behavior management Build trust with clients through consistency, professionalism, and strong service execution Maintain a high level of client satisfaction throughout the training journey Safety and Operational Excellence Enforce all safety protocols for staff and dogs within the training department Coach the team on dog signaling, body language, handling procedures, and socialization best practices Maintain compliance with company policies related to dog health and safety Monitor facility conditions to ensure a clean, safe, and organized environment Support operational excellence through strong oversight, professionalism, and attention to detail Marketing and Community Engagement Support marketing initiatives through events, workshops, and community outreach Represent the organization as a subject matter expert in canine behavior and training Build and strengthen partnerships with local pet communities and organizations Help expand awareness of training services and reinforce the brand in the local market What We’re Looking For We are seeking a leader who is: Deeply knowledgeable in canine behavior and learning theory Skilled in trainer development, coaching, and performance management Sales-minded and capable of growing service revenue Strong in client communication and relationship building Highly accountable, organized, and professional Passionate about animal welfare and safety Comfortable influencing change and leading department growth Visible, hands-on, and comfortable operating within the day-to-day resort environment Required Experience High school diploma or equivalent required Bachelor’s degree or equivalent education and experience preferred Minimum 3-5 years of management experience, including profit and loss responsibility Minimum 7+ years of professional dog training experience, including advanced behavioral modification Strong financial and operational management ability Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and relevant scheduling, point of sale, or pet care management systems Strong client-facing skills and comfort operating within a resort environment Preferred Certifications CPDT-KA or equivalent recognized certification Additional credentials in behavior or advanced training techniques You Must Be Able To Work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed Move throughout the resort for extended periods of time Lift and move dogs, equipment, or supplies within the physical requirements of the role Bend, stoop, reach, and work actively in a fast-paced, loud environment Maintain a professional appearance and demeanor with clients, team members, and leadership Perform basic math and understand finances and cost management Hold a valid driver’s license if required by the role Transport a pet in case of emergency if required by the role Why You’ll Love Working Here Competitive compensation: $25.00 - $29.00 per hour Medical, dental, and vision benefits 401(k) with employer match Career growth opportunities within a growing company A workplace centered around pet care, safety, service excellence, and team development Equal Opportunity Employer NVA is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. Folsom Dog Resort & Training Center is the most award-winning pet care facility it the greater Sacramento area. Since 2008, we've provided award-winning dog boarding, dog day care, dog training, and dog grooming services to thousands of clients and canine guests. Over 20 years of industry experience has resulted in a an expert, talented team that is passionate about delivering unmatched pet care and customer service. Our mission is to make pet ownership worry-free by providing outstanding pet care in a safe, healthy, happy environment for their dogs. #J-18808-Ljbffr