Puppy Socialization Coach

Job Description

Job Description

Salary: $23.50 - $25.50 per hour

Position Summary:

The Seattle Humane Animal Training Program is seeking an experienced Puppy Socialization Coach specializing in Positive Reinforcement training methods to work part time leading Puppy Play Skills sessions at the Seattle Humane Campus. The Puppy Socialization Coach is responsible for overseeing the health and safety of young puppies while participating in this important program.

KEY OR ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Ensure safety and developmentally appropriate interactions for young puppies (between 8 weeks and 1 year of age) using humane, science-based handling and training.
• Guide and support puppy owners in appropriate interactions and teach science-based puppy rearing skills for students while in Puppy Play Skills.
• Teach and mentor volunteers that are assigned to assist in Puppy Play Skills.
• Ensure that play areas are cleaned to a high level to maintain a safe and healthy environment for puppies and their people.
• Assist with Dog Training program administrative support, checking vaccination records and ensuring coverage when Dog Training Manager is not in the office.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY:
None.

COMMUNICATION/INTERPERSONAL CONTACT:

Regular verbal and written communication with Seattle Humane Dog Training Manager, Dog Training Instructors, pet owners, and volunteers through direct contact, email and phone.

COMPLEXITY:

A high degree of independent judgment is required. Must be able to coordinate volunteers and remain focused on the program and organizational goals and objectives. Needs attention to detail and must be able to respond to unexpected questions, comments or requests from other departments or the general public. The ability to motivate, negotiate and mediate will be helpful when handling a variety of personalities and emotions.

KNOWLEDGE/EXPERIENCE/EDUCATION OR TRAINING:

• At least one year of experience working with young puppies using humane, force-free techniques with current scientific knowledge.
• Experience overseeing group puppy or dog play.
• Experience coaching and teaching skills to dog owners.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to effectively train and support others in a positive, constructive manner.
• Strong customer service skills.
  

LICENSES/CERTIFICATIONS REQUIRED:

• Certification in dog training such as through CCPDT or IAABC is strongly preferred.

PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Must be able to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
• Must possess good attention to detail, be able to concentrate and produce accurate work despite frequent interruptions.
• Needs to be sensitive to other opinions, perspectives or cultures.
• Must feel comfortable in dealing with angry, confused and/or emotional people.
• Must be able to stand for long periods of time; to lift and carry at least 40 pounds; to kneel, crouch, bend and reach.
• Must possess good hand-eye coordination, agility and stamina. Must possess good senses of hearing, vision and touch.

WORKING CONDITIONS:General office/classroom, and animal training facility environment.In addition, the handling of animals presents the potential for bites and exposure to zoonotic diseases, animal dander and noise.Potential for working with angry or emotional customers.

• Equipment Use: Potential use of computer, printer, fax, copy machine, multi-line telephone, and animal restraint or animal training devices.
• Chemical Interaction: A wide variety of cleaners, disinfectants, detergents and medical products are used daily. Each position at Seattle Humane will likely encounter these chemicals during the routine performance of their duties.Specific instructions will be provided by a SH staff memberfor the safe and proper use of these chemicals. If there are any questions regarding this information, copies of our chemical MSDS sheets are available for If asked to use a product that is unfamiliar, contact your supervisor for proper instructions.
• Work Hours: Part-time, approximately 10-15 hours a week including evening and weekend hours. Attendance required at all-staff meetings and assigned training workshops or meetings. Some travel may be required for trainings and/or conferences.

LOCATION:

The position works onsite in the Bellevue, WA office.

Equal Opportunity

As an equal opportunity employer, Seattle Humane is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or disability status or any other basis prohibited by applicable law.