Director, Service Dog Program

The Service Dog Program Director provides leadership and oversight for Dogs Inc's Service Dog program. This role ensures that our service dogs are trained to the highest industry standards, meet the needs of veterans with PTSD and other disabilities, and strengthen Dogs Inc's reputation as a global leader in working dog excellence.

Reporting to the Chief Operations Officer, the Director manages daily training operations, develops staff and apprentices, and delivers consistent program outcomes. This position partners with Admissions, Alumni Support, and Guide Dog Training to ensure appropriate student matches, effective career pathing for dogs, and long-term graduate success.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

Program Leadership

• Leads, manages, and evaluates service dog trainers and apprentices, fostering accountability, professionalism, and innovation.
• Ensures and advances a positive-reinforcement curriculum aligned with Assistance Dogs International (ADI) standards.
• Oversees matching and class preparation to ensure graduate readiness and sustainable outcomes.
• Maintains accurate, thorough, and timely training records and reports.

Collaboration & Alignment

• Partners with Admissions and Alumni Support on applicant acceptance, class selections, denials, and appeals.
• Collaborates with Guide Dog Training to determine career paths for dogs in training.
• Supports Alumni Advisors in recertification processes and graduate follow-up.
• Coordinates with internal teams to align student services, canine care, and training priorities.

Compliance & Standards

• Ensures adherence to ADI accreditation standards and Dogs Inc policies.
• Maintains staff expertise in PTSD and related disabilities to inform training and student support.
• Establishes systems of continuous improvement to strengthen training outcomes.

Staff Development

• Provides mentorship, coaching, and professional development for trainers and apprentices.
• Models effective instructional and communication practices in student and graduate interactions.
• Champions innovation in training techniques and empowers staff contributions to program growth.

External Representation

• Serves as an ambassador for Dogs Inc with puppy raisers, volunteers, donors, and campus guests.
• Supports partnerships with external organizations such as the VA, ADI, and peer service dog institutions.

Required

• Bachelor's degree in animal behavior, animal science, or related field.
• Certified service dog trainer (ADI standards).
• 5+ years of supervisory experience in canine training programs.
• Expertise in operant conditioning and positive reinforcement.
• Experience working with veterans with PTSD or other disabilities.
• Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and cloud-based software systems
• Valid driver's license.

Preferred

• Advanced degree or specialized certification.
• Experience in ADI- or IGDF-accredited institutions.
• Proficiency in applicable databases: IWDR, ProVet, Blackbaud, Volgistics, etc.
• Familiarity with program evaluation, applied research, and data-driven decision-making.

Why Join Dogs Inc?

At Dogs Inc, we don't just change lives—we transform them. Here's why you'll love working with us:

• Comprehensive Benefits: Full dental and vision premiums covered, competitive medical coverage, and a $15,000 life insurance policy.
• Retirement Match: A 5% retirement plan match for benefit-eligible employees.
• Campus Perks: Free access to our fitness center and chef-prepared lunches (Monday–Friday).
• Time to Recharge: Generous PTO policies (12–20 days/year based on tenure) + 13 paid holidays—including your birthday.
• Reward-Based Programs: Earn additional PTO through our Learn and Earn and Pawsitive Strides.
• Dog-Friendly Workplace: Bring your well-behaved, pre-screened pup to work—it's basically heaven.