Current jobs related to Dog Trainer - Fairfax Station - Homeward Trails Animal Rescue

_Positive Dog Trainer _
**Positive Dog Trainer**

Homeward Trails Animal Rescue is a nonprofit animal rescue and shelter in Northern Virginia. We rescue thousands of animals each year from under-resourced rural shelters in the United States, Puerto Rico and internationally. Dogs we rescue are placed either in foster homes or in our cageless Adoption Center until they are adopted.

The Adoption Center is a unique shelter to the area in that it is centered around frequent socialization for the dogs through playgroups, which offer great opportunities for our dogs to receive daily exercise, enrichment, and socialization.

We are seeking a dedicated and professional Dog Trainer to join our team to assist with developing and implementing behavior plans for the dogs in our care, provide one-on-one training and help our animal care staff develop skills in the areas of dog behavior and training.

**Responsibilities**:

- Assist with overseeing dog social groups in accordance with Homeward Trails guidelines
- Assist in training staff on dog behavior and training techniques
- Conduct evaluations of incoming dogs
- Develop and implement individualized dog behavior plans
- Provide volunteers and adopters with information about the dogs using appropriate terminology and ongoing behavioral modification techniques
- Report medical and behavioral concerns to appropriate supervisors
- Work with dogs individually on basic training tasks using positive, fear-free methods
- Document training and behavior in the shelter database using objective, precise language
- Perform safe introductions between dogs and potential adopters
- Provide behavior information and pre-adoption training for adopters of dogs with specific behavioral needs
- Engage in continuous training and learning opportunities

**Qualifications**:

- Reliable and consistently available for scheduled shifts
- Strong work ethic
- Commitment to the well-being of the dogs in our care
- At least 12 months positive dog training experience or equivalent dog training education program
- Fundamental understanding of basic learning theory and principles
- Strong written and communication skills
- Motivated to learn, gain new skills, and advance their knowledge
- Positive and enthusiastic, with a strong attention to detail
- Able to work with and interact with a wide range of people and personalities
- Able to direct volunteers
- Can remain calm and professional under pressure and in stressful situations
- Must be able to meet physical demands including, but not limited to, lifting heavy items or animals
- Experience working with dogs in a group setting a plus

This is a part-time opportunity looking to fill between approximately 20-30 hours per week. Working on weekends and holidays is mandatory. Starting pay is $20 per hour, depending on experience. Opportunities for advancement are available through skill acquisition, increased competency, and adherence to stated standards of employment.

To apply, please submit your resume and a short message that describes why you are a good fit for this position, your relevant experience, and the days/hours you would be available to work. Applications that are submitted without these details will not be considered.

Homeward Trails is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, national origin, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, citizenship, military or veteran status or genetics.

**Homeward Trails Animal Rescue provided the following inclusive hiring information**:
We are an equal opportunity employer and considers all qualified applicants equally without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or disability status.

**Job Type**: Part-time

Pay: From $20.00 per hour

**Benefits**:

- Paid time off

Schedule:

- Weekends as needed

License/Certification:

- CPDT-KA Certification (preferred)

Work Location: In person