Full-Time, Hours may vary
LOCATION: Chittenango, NY
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. The Canine Program Trainer provides the training required to meet the standards and guidelines set forth by Clear Path for Veterans Canine Program for assigned service dogs, service dogs in training, and all other selected canines. Recognizes and provides additional support for trainers, instructors, care technicians, and all other assigned canine staff. The incumbent engages and works with the Canine Training Manager to maintain, develop, and improve upon systems and processes to increase efficiency across each section. Actively listens to staff while maintaining realistic expectations and promoting teamwork. This position reports to the Canine Program Training Manager for all matters pertaining to the Canine Program.
Canine Training and Management
- Train assigned CPV Canine Program dogs to successfully learn a variety of cues, skills, and behaviors from basic obedience to service level.
- Assist in the training and development of all dogs enrolled in the Canine Development Program and Advanced Training.
- Assist in the coordination of Behavioral Checklist and other evaluations for all dogs in training.
- Frequently consult with the Canine Program team to develop and document effective training plans.
- Ensure consistency among training techniques.
- Monitor and evaluate the dogs as they progress through training and socialization stages; enter data and complete required forms and reports in a timely manner.
- Efficiently schedule training in a timely manner.
- Maintain a clean, safe environment for the dogs and humans at the program sites.
- Perform public access training and testing to ensure canines exhibit proper behavior when in public spaces.
- Comply with or exceed Assistance Dog International minimum standards and ethics.
- May be required to respond to health or behavioral emergencies with Clear Path-owned or participant dogs during non-work hours.
- Exhibit maximum flexibility to fill in or assist other trainers as needed.
- Attend and actively participate in departmental and organizational meetings.
- Ensure assigned dogs have basic needs met throughout the day.
- Identify any gaps and collaborate with the rest of the canine team to identify solutions.
- Obtain the minimum amount of CEUs required by Clear Path for Veteran's Training Standards.
Teamwork, Cohesion, Collaboration
- Promote teamwork by communicating regularly and effectively with the Canine Program staff including Canine Program team progress; assistance needed; resolving issues; sharing new techniques, and any other topics that make for a more effective team.
- Support volunteers to maximize their effectiveness and efficiency.
Administrative and Miscellaneous
- Develop and maintain accurate records related to canine training and management in compliance with data management standard operating procedures.
- Represent or assist in representing Clear Path for Veterans at various community events and other activities.
- Complete other duties or tasks assigned or needed to complete job responsibilities and support Clear Path's mission.
Education and Experience Needed
- Bachelor's degree in a relevant field OR equivalent work experience with certification in a recognized canine training school or recognized organization is preferred.
- 3-5 years proven successful experience training dogs using modern training techniques.
- American Kennel Club (AKC) Canine Good Citizen (CGC) Evaluator certification preferred.
- Experienced 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.
Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities Needed to Perform Effectively in the Position
- 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.
- The ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
- Proficient with time management with the ability to prioritize tasks.
- The ability to be compassionate yet firm and exercise good sound 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 in the program.
- Leadership style that offers creativity and innovation to promote ideas and outcomes.
- Above-average ability to problem solve.
- Superior interpersonal and communication skills.
- Exceptional organizational skills.
- Computer literacy and the ability to operate office equipment sufficient to perform the functions of the job.
- Ability to understand and work with PTS, MST, and TBI in Veterans.
- Ability to travel and work flexible hours including weekends.
- Knowledge of Military and Warrior culture.
- May be required to work weekends, and evenings as needed.
- Participate in special events as required.
- Required to travel to chapter and affiliate locations as strategically defined.
- Attend conferences and networking opportunities on a frequent basis.
Work locations will vary depending on day-to-day tasks and responsibilities. Active attendance at Clear Path for Veterans main location will be required when not conducting off-site tasks.
Job-related Physical Abilities needed to perform the job in a satisfactory manner
Must possess speech and hearing sufficient for telephone and in-person communications. Manual dexterity is sufficient for constant use of computer keyboard and other office equipment. Vision sufficient for frequent use of a computer monitor, developing and reading paperwork. Must be able to stand and be actively mobile for extended periods of time, including bending, stooping, reaching, running, balancing, etc. Must be able to lift a minimum of 35 lbs.
- All requirements are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities.
- Ensure all Clear Path for Veterans employees conduct themselves in a professional manner towards others including but not limited to; Veterans, volunteers, other Clear Path employees, and visitors.
- Ensure that Veterans, volunteers, employees, or visitors have a positive experience with Clear Path.
- Supports and promotes the Clear Path mission.
- Adheres to Clear Path for Veterans policies and procedures.
- Promotes teamwork amongst coworkers.
- Meets or exceeds expected performance standards, including consistently reporting to work on time prepared to perform the duties of the position.
