Professional Dog Trainer – Sport & Performance Specialist
**Location:** Crystal Lake, IL
**Employment Type:** Part-Time
At Gohld K9, we believe exceptional dog trainers are built through years of hands-on experience, continuous learning, and an obsession with developing both dogs and handlers. We are looking for an experienced trainer who has dedicated themselves to mastering a specific sport or niche within the dog training world.
This is **not** an entry-level training position.
We are seeking someone who has extensive real-world experience training, competing, and coaching others in a discipline such as:
* AKC or UKC Obedience
* Rally
* Agility
* Nose Work/Scent Detection
* Hunting & Retriever Sports
* Freestyle
* Disc Dog
* Detection K9s
* Or another specialized area with demonstrated success
We're looking for someone who understands what it takes to build a dog from foundation through advanced performance.
What You'll Do
* Train dogs in both private and structured training programs.
* Coach owners with clear, effective instruction.
* Help develop dogs from foundational skills through advanced work.
* Demonstrate proper training techniques and problem-solving skills.
* Assist in developing training curriculum and educational material.
* Work independently while maintaining consistent training standards.
* Collaborate with our team to provide an exceptional client experience.
* Continue expanding your own education and knowledge.
## Minimum Qualifications
Applicants should have:
* Extensive experience training dogs in a specific sport or working discipline.
* Experience actively competing, trialing, testing, or working dogs at a high level.
* Experience coaching or mentoring other handlers.
* A strong understanding of learning theory, motivation, engagement, drive building, and behavior modification.
* Excellent communication and people skills.
* The ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
* Reliable transportation and dependable attendance.
## The Kind of Person We're Looking For
Technical skill is only part of what makes a great trainer.
We want someone who is:
* Honest and trustworthy
* Reliable and accountable
* Humble and always willing to learn
* Easy to work with
* Professional with clients
* Patient with both dogs and people
* Passionate about developing exceptional dog teams
* Comfortable giving and receiving constructive feedback
* A positive representative of our company
## Bonus Qualifications
These are not required but are highly valued:
* Multiple competition titles or certifications
* Experience handling difficult behavioral cases
* Experience teaching group classes
* Experience training service dogs or working dogs
* Knowledge of balanced training methods and modern learning theory
* Experience creating training plans and documenting progress
* Social media or educational content creation experience
## What We Offer
* Competitive pay based on experience
* Opportunities for continued education and professional development
* A supportive team environment
* The ability to specialize and expand your area of expertise
* The opportunity to help shape one of the region's premier dog training programs
## How to Apply
If you're passionate about dog training and have dedicated years to mastering your craft, we'd love to hear from you.
When applying, please include:
* A resume
* A summary of your dog training background
* The sports or disciplines you've participated in
* Competition titles, accomplishments, or certifications
* Any coaching or instructor experience
* Videos or social media showcasing your work (if available)
We are looking for professionals who care deeply about their craft and want to continue growing alongside a team committed to excellence.
Pay: $15.00 - $50.00 per hour
Benefits:
Work Location: In person
