Dog Trainer

Dog Trainer - Tender Care Animal Hospital

Peoria, Illinois

Are you passionate about strengthening the bond between dogs and their people? Tender Care Animal Hospital is seeking an enthusiastic and experienced Dog Trainer to join our growing team in Peoria, Illinois!

Our training program is centered around positive reinforcement, confidence building, and practical life skills that help puppies and adult dogs thrive. With classes offered throughout the week, you'll work with a variety of breeds, personalities, and experience levels in a collaborative and supportive environment.

This role is ideal for someone who enjoys client education, teamwork, and helping pets succeed through modern, humane training methods. If you are patient, energetic, and passionate about canine behavior and wellness, we would love to connect with you.

In this role, you will:

• Lead puppy and basic obedience classes using positive reinforcement methods
• Educate pet owners on training techniques, behavior, and communication
• Create a safe, engaging, and supportive learning environment for dogs and handlers
• Assist with behavior guidance and practical training solutions
• Collaborate with veterinary team members to support overall pet wellness
• Build lasting relationships with clients and their pets

Schedule:

Full-time position with a flexible schedule, Monday-Sunday.

Full-time Benefits & Compensation**:

• Compensation: $15/hour*
• 50% commission on completed training sessions (minus hourly wages earned)
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Life insurance and disability coverage
• Employee Assistance Program
• 401(k) options
• Paid time off in accordance with site policy and applicable law
• Personal pet discount
• Uniform allowance

Minimum Qualifications:

• 2+ years of professional dog training experience
• Strong knowledge of positive reinforcement and fear-free training techniques
• Experience teaching group puppy or obedience classes
• CPDT-KA or equivalent certification preferred
• Strong understanding of canine body language and behavior principles
• Excellent communication and client education skills
• Ability to safely manage multiple dogs and handlers
• Collaborative mindset and ability to work alongside a veterinary medical team

About Tender Care Animal Hospital

As an AAHA-accredited hospital, Tender Care Animal Hospital is proud to foster a collaborative, supportive workplace where team members are encouraged to grow professionally and personally. We value compassion, teamwork, and continuous learning while providing exceptional care to pets and the people who love them.

If you're looking for an opportunity to make a meaningful impact while helping dogs and their families succeed, we'd love to hear from you!

#SPO

*To determine specific pay Company will consider the following factors: the applicant's education, training, or experience related to the job position, geographic location where the work is performed, and other relevant factors. **During the process, you may request more information about compensation and benefits for your specific location where the work is performed. Where required under applicable law, WVP provides eligible employees with leave, and similar benefits programs, all in accordance with state and local law. WVP is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic under federal, state or local laws. WVP will consider qualified applicants with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws. Qualified Applicants with disabilities are entitled to reasonable accommodations under applicable state and local law, and the Americans with Disabilities Act. Please contact People Operations, if you need assistance completing the application process.