Position Title: Dog Trainer
Location: The Simon Foundation, 120 Rescue Lane in Bloomfield, CT
Employment Type: Part-Time (Flexible hours)
About Us
The Simon Foundation is dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming animals in need. Our mission is to improve the lives of homeless pets through compassionate care, behavioral support, and successful adoption placements.
Position Summary
We are seeking a knowledgeable, patient, and compassionate Dog Trainer to join our team. The successful candidate will work directly with shelter dogs to assess behavior, develop training plans, improve adoptability, and support successful transitions into permanent homes.
Key Responsibilities
- Evaluate the behavior and temperament of shelter dogs.
- Address common behavioral challenges, including leash reactivity, fearfulness, anxiety, and basic obedience issues.
- Conduct positive reinforcement-based training sessions.
- Work closely with shelter staff and adopters to ensure consistent handling and training practices.
- Provide adopter education and post-adoption training guidance as needed.
- Maintain accurate training records and behavioral assessments.
- Assist with behavior evaluations for incoming and resident dogs.
- Promote animal welfare and humane training methods at all times.
Qualifications
- Previous professional dog training experience required.
- Certification through a recognized organization (e.g., CCPDT, IAABC, KPA) preferred.
- Strong understanding of canine behavior, body language, and learning theory.
- Experience working with shelter, rescue, or behaviorally challenged dogs is highly desirable.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to safely handle dogs of various sizes, breeds, and temperaments.
- Valid driver's license and reliable transportation preferred.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to stand, walk, bend, and lift up to 50 pounds.
- Comfortable working both indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions.
- Ability to safely restrain and manage dogs when necessary.
What We Offer
- Meaningful work that directly improves animal lives.
- Supportive and mission-driven team environment.
- Professional development opportunities.
- Opportunity to make a lasting impact on animals in need
How to Apply
Interested candidates should apply and submit a cover letter outlining their dog training experience and passion for animal welfare.
Pay: From $20.00 per hour
Benefits:
Work Location: In person
