About the Role
The Canine Program Trainer provides training for service dogs, dogs in training, and other selected canines according to Clear Path for Veterans' standards. This role supports trainers, instructors, and canine staff, and collaborates with the Canine Training Manager to improve system efficiency and promote teamwork.
Responsibilities
- Train assigned Canine Program Guardian teams in obedience and service-level skills.
- Assist in training and development of dogs in the Canine Development Program and Advanced Training.
- Coordinate Behavioral Checklist and other evaluations for dogs in training.
- Consult with the Canine Program team to develop and document training plans.
- Ensure consistency in training techniques.
- Monitor and evaluate dog progress through training and socialization stages, entering data and completing reports.
- Schedule training sessions efficiently.
- Maintain a clean and safe environment for dogs and humans.
- Perform public access training and testing.
- Comply with or exceed Assistance Dog International minimum standards and ethics.
- Respond to health or behavioral emergencies with Clear Path-owned or participant dogs during non-work hours.
- Exhibit flexibility to assist other trainers as needed.
- Attend and participate in departmental and organizational meetings.
- Ensure assigned dogs' basic needs are met.
- Identify gaps and collaborate with the canine team to find solutions.
- Obtain the minimum required CEUs.
- Promote teamwork through regular and effective communication with Canine Program staff.
- Support volunteers to maximize their effectiveness.
- Develop and maintain accurate records related to canine training and management.
- Represent Clear Path for Veterans at community events.
- Complete other assigned duties to support Clear Path's mission.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in a relevant field OR equivalent work experience with certification in a recognized canine training school or organization is preferred.
- 3-5 years of proven successful experience training dogs using modern training techniques.
- American Kennel Club (AKC) Canine Good Citizen (CGC) Evaluator certification preferred.
- Experience with both group and private training sessions preferred.
- Background in training service dogs preferred.
- Excellent verbal, written presentation, and IT skills.
- Experience working with or maintaining extended associations with Veterans preferred.
- Ability to travel and work flexible hours including weekends.
- Knowledge of Military and Warrior culture.
- May be required to work weekends and evenings.
- Participate in special events as required.
- Required to travel to chapter and affiliate locations.
- Attend conferences and networking opportunities.
- Must be able to stand and be actively mobile for extended periods, including bending, stooping, reaching, running, and balancing.
- Must be able to lift a minimum of 35 lbs.
Skills
- Understanding of and commitment to Clear Path’s mission, policies, and protocols.
- Knowledge of the assistance dog industry and associated standards.
- Good knowledge of canine behavior and communication.
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
- Proficient with time management and task prioritization.
- Ability to be compassionate yet firm and exercise good judgment.
- Ability to exhibit passion and support for the Clear Path Veterans mission.
- Ability to work with a diverse group of people.
- Respect, interest, and concern for the wellbeing of canines.
- Leadership style that offers creativity and innovation.
- Above-average problem-solving ability.
- Superior interpersonal and communication skills.
- Exceptional organizational skills.
- Computer literacy and ability to operate office equipment.
- Ability to understand and work with PTS, MST, and TBI in Veterans.
- Speech and hearing sufficient for communication.
- Manual dexterity for computer keyboard and office equipment use.
- Vision sufficient for computer monitor use and reading paperwork.
Location
- Chittenango, NY
Work Type
- Full-Time
- Hourly
- Non-Exempt
- Hours may vary
- Flexible hours including weekends
- Work locations will vary
Experience Level
- 3-5 years proven successful experience training dogs
Education Level
- Bachelor's degree in a relevant field OR equivalent work experience with certification in a recognized canine training school or recognized organization is preferred.
Salary/Compensations
- $38,000—$40,000 USD
About the Company
- Clear Path for Veterans, Inc. (CPV or Clear Path) is a community-based organization delivering world class, holistic programs and services to veterans and their families without condition.
