K9s For Warriors is the nation’s largest provider of service dogs to veterans suffering from the invisible wounds of war, such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Our unique, in-house program helps change the lives of American heroes by pairing them with a battle buddy, who was likely a rescue dog and then teaching him or her to utilize that dog to mitigate the symptoms of their wounds. In order to continue the great work we are doing, we are in need of an Assistant K9 Training Manager to join our amazing team!
ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Under the general direction and supervision of the K9 Training Operations Manager, the Assistant K9 Training Manager is responsible for conducting skills and temperament tests, evaluating K9s in training, providing feedback on Service Dogs in training, and coaching K9 Trainers in behavior modification methods consistent with K9s For Warriors’ (K9s) training standards. The Assistant K9 Training Manager will also input training metrics, identify trends, and provide solutions to consistently improve the quality of the Service Dog.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
- Manage, assign, schedule, approve timecards, review, and conduct/track feedback on the work of Lead K9 Trainers, and K9 Trainers.
- Provide leadership and coaching to K9 Trainers and Puppy Raisers relative to the performance of initiatives aimed at meeting Service Dog training and Warrior placement goals
- Work with the Manager to expand and formalize the training curriculum that identifies obedience and program milestones within a logical progression to ensure quality control for the training team and dogs in training aimed at Warrior placement in a timely and appropriate manner
- Assist the Manager with forecasting available dog numbers for upcoming classes and project K9s appropriate for scheduled skills testing.
- Enter data, collect metrics, run reports, identify trends, modify enrichment and training plans to improve dog’s mental health and behavior
- Identify and provide continuing education opportunities to ensure trainers are informed of professional and industry trends
- Assess K9 Trainer’s skills to create consistency of training; provide feedback and demonstrate appropriate K9s Trainer techniques
- Review training progress data and proactively manage Trainer progress
- Evaluate dogs for potential candidacy into the program, review behavior modification plans and techniques; release dogs from the program when not meeting criteria
- Conduct temperament and incremental skills to evaluate dog progression through training; recommend dogs that are ready for Warrior placement
- Collaborate with Enrichment and Kennel Management on K9 Trainer Dog Procedure requests, kennel assignments, kennel behavior issues, and enrichment activities.
- Work in conjunction with other Assistant Managers for the oversight and coordination of either (a) Paws For Change, (b) Puppy Program, (c) K9 Trainer support of Warrior class needs, (d) research evaluations and data management.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Direct the work of Lead K9 Trainers
- Ensure consistency in methods approved by and in alignment with the K9s For Warriors training philosophy.
- Review K9 Trainer training records to ensure completion and consistency when presenting information.
- Assist the K9 Training Operations Manager with oversight of the Paws for Change program.
- Exercise discretion and independent judgment on matters that are core functions of the K9s mission
CORE COMPETENCIES
- Coaching
- Adaptability
- Initiative
- Integrity
- Planning and Organizing
QUALIFICATIONS AND EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS
- Certification from an accredited dog training school or equivalent work experience
- 2 years in a supervisory and management position responsible for the performance of five or more employees
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Proven Professional experience in dog training
- Exhibit confidence in self and others; inspire and motivate others to perform well; effectively influence actions and opinions of others
- Kennel experience preferred
- Valid driver’s license and meet policy requirements for company auto insurance
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Ability to exert a moderate to extensive amount of physical effort, including stooping, crouching, twisting, turning, walking stairs, climbing, and lifting up to fifty (50) pounds individually. Exposure to unpleasant odors or sounds. Exposure to chemicals, loud noises, and inclement weather