Dog Trainer - Experienced Full Time

Job Description

Job Description

Crossroads Pet Resort is a recognized and established Dog Training and Daycare/Boarding facility and we are looking for an EXPERIENCED DOG TRAINER to join our growing on-site training team! 

Mission/Purpose: Promotes and ensures the efficient and effective training of Board & Train, Puppy, and Daycare & Train dogs using positive reinforcement techniques. Responsible for assessing a canine clients’ behavior, sociability, and training levels and needs; creating a customized training program and implementing behavior modification for various behavioral problems in addition to working with the human client and their dog(s) to achieve defined training goals. Provides training services that align with Crossroads' brand and follows standard operating procedures for the company.

Key Accountabilities: Must have strong working (applied) knowledge of learning theory/operant conditioning with an emphasis on positive reinforcement methods and techniques that are in-line with best practices as supported by LIMA (Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive). Must be able to recognize dog body language and have the ability to pass dog handling tests given by Crossroads. The candidate must be prompt, professional and positive and be able to consistently perform the following duties and responsibilities with or without a reasonable accommodation.

Training Responsibilities: Trainer will be responsible for defining and executing individualized training plans (puppy to basic obedience) for assigned dogs using positive reinforcement and low stress handling techniques. Trainer will be responsible for documenting daily training progress, communicating with owners regarding training progress reports, and providing one-on-one training with owners and their dog(s). Trainers may take phone calls from prospective clients with questions about training services.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to: 

• Work daily with our Board & Train, Puppy, and Daycare & Train dogs using positive reinforcement techniques – multiple dogs may be handled each day
• Maintain an organized schedule of client appointments and daily sessions
• Log training sessions and properly complete training-related paperwork - includes daily training reports/logs and client progress reports
• Design and implement training plans in accordance with documented procedures and direction/guidance provided by Training Manager
• Conduct daily one-on-one training sessions that comply with defined training plans: obedience, behaviors, leash work, and socialization, and/or other training objectives
• Communicate progress and provide coaching to human clients on skills for in-home reinforcement of training objectives – includes in-person, phone, video, and email communications
• Conduct refresher/brush-up training sessions for Daycare or Short-term boarding clients
• Meet with Training Manager on a weekly basis, or more frequently, to conduct review of cases and training plans
• Provide pictures and videos of clients and their dogs for owners and company social media
• Ensure animal safety by cleaning up after dogs, monitoring behavior and proper feeding and water - Observe dogs and report behavioral issues or health concerns
• Observe dog behavior to promote positive interactions – dog-to-dog and dog-to-human – and moderate dog introductions on and off leash and during socialization/play time; prevent and break up dog fights
• Help new canine clients acclimate to a group play environment
• Must be patient, thorough and able to work both in a group setting and autonomously
• May include assisting with and eventually teaching group classes

Knowledge and Skills:

Knowledge: Trainer must be knowledgeable about breed types, ages, sizes, and temperaments and have previous dog training and behavior modification training experience (minimum of 1 year; 2+ years is preferred): Thorough knowledge of canine behavior and experience with complex behavior issues, up to and including fears and aggression, is preferred. CPDT-KA Certification is strongly preferred. Ability for quick recall of dog's names, breeds, and details about individual dogs is a must.

Results Oriented: Takes personal responsibility to make decisions and take action on behalf of the client and their animal. Initiates decisive and timely action to address important issues, involves the General Manager and/or Owner, as needed to ensure appropriate resources are available to meet defined training outcomes. Demonstrates a strong sense of ownership and a commitment to achieving results and sets clear goals for self.

Communication: Provides timely updates and provides appropriate level of detail in communications to training clients and to facility representatives. Communicates written and verbal information in a clear, concise and professional manner.

Motivation: Demonstrates a 'can-do' attitude and has a strong sense of ownership and commitment to the business. Encourages high standards of performance from self and sets a high bar for others to follow. Strengthens working relationships by continuously supporting the broader purpose and mission of the training team and program.

Education and Experience: High school diploma (or GED). Minimum of one (1) year experience as a dog trainer in a board & train setting, or equivalent facility (2+ years is preferred). CPDT-KA Certification, or ability to attain certification within 6 months, is strongly preferred.

Teamwork: Trainers primarily work autonomously; however, occasional assistance with kennel and or play group operations may be needed. Crossroads employees – front office, kennel, grooming, trainers and management - work as a team and everyone helps when necessary to ensure that we maintain the expected level of quality and standard of care for our clients.

Safety and Client Service: Ensure the safety, health and well-being of animals by following Crossroads' standard operating procedures and industry best practices. Is focused on animal welfare/safety and is knowledgeable regarding Breed Standards.

Work Environment: The majority of duties are conducted outdoors. Position requires bending, kneeling, stooping, lifting (up to 50 pounds), and standing for long periods of time in an environment that may be cold, hot, windy, wet and/or noisy - all safety protocols must be followed to reduce any risk of injury to employees, clients and animals.

Additional Requirements: 

• Requires the ability to lift 50 lbs., stand for long periods, maneuver through obstacles, and work in an outdoor environment
• Must be able to work around disinfectants, dog hair, and other potential allergens
• Must be computer literate
• Must possess a valid CA Driver License

Shift: Full-time with some Saturdays required, hours during the week may vary

Salary: $18.00 - $25.00 per hour, based upon experience and certification status

Location: Crossroads Pet Resort – 10832 Knott Ave. Stanton CA 90680