Dog Instructor - Lions Park

Salary: $10.00 - $30.00 Hourly
Location : Lions Park 516 Dennis Avenue, Raleigh, NC
Job Type: Part-Time
Job Number: 2026-00440
Department: PRCR - Recreation
Opening Date: 04/24/2026
Closing Date: 6/4/2026 11:59 PM Eastern
Work Hours: Varies
Job Description
Seeking a knowledgeable, patient, and professional Dog Instructor to provide high-quality training services to dogs and their owners. This role involves working with dogs of all sizes, temperaments, and backgrounds, as well as coaching owners through effective training techniques. The ideal candidate is confident, communicative, and committed to positive client experiences.

Duties and Responsibilities
• Conduct group training sessions for puppies, adult dogs, and dogs with behavioral challenges.
• Develop individualized training plans based on each dog's needs, temperament, and learning style.
• Demonstrate proper handling, leash work, and training techniques to dog owners.
• Educate clients on behavior management, reinforcement strategies, and long-term training success.
• Provide or recommend appropriate training tools and equipment.
• Ensure a safe environment for dogs, clients, and staff at all times.
• Represent the organization with professionalism, empathy, and clarity.

Typical Qualifications
• Experience in dog training, behavior modification, or related fields.
• Ability to train and handle dogs of all sizes, including large-breed dogs.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work with dog owners from diverse backgrounds.
• Ability to provide or source necessary training tools.
• Reliable transportation and punctuality.

Preferred Qualifications
• Professional dog-training credentials or certifications (CPDT-KA, KPA-CTP, IAABC, etc.).
• Experience with group classes, puppy socials, or behavior consultations.
• Knowledge of learning theory, canine body language, and behavior patterns.
• Experience working in shelters, veterinary clinics, or training facilities.
Additional Information
Physical Requirements

This position requires the physical ability to safely handle and train dogs of various sizes, strengths, and energy levels. Candidates should be able to:
• Lift, guide, or support dogs up to 50-75 lbs as needed.
• Stand, walk, or move continuously for 1-3 hours during training sessions.
• Perform bending, kneeling, crouching, and reaching for hands-on work.
• Maintain control of dogs that may pull, jump, or display reactive behavior.
• Use hands and fingers for fine motor tasks such as attaching leashes, fitting harnesses, or handling treats.
• Work indoors or outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Communicate clearly and confidently with clients.
• Maintain situational awareness to ensure safety for all participants.
Work Environment
• Sessions will take place at Oakwood Dog Park.

Compensation

Compensation is based on number of participants
ADA and other requirements:

Positions in this class typically require Balancing, Stooping, Kneeling, Crouching, Reaching, Standing, Walking, Seeing, Pushing and Pulling, Lifting, Fingering, Grasping, Feeling, Talking, Hearing and Repetitive Motions.


Physical Requirements: Exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 20 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects.
Note

This job classification description is intended to be generic in nature. It is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The essential duties, functions, and responsibilities, as well as the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) designation, may vary based on the specific tasks assigned to the position.