POSITION OVERVIEW

The Puppy-Raising Supervisor (Burnaby) works under the supervision of PADS’ Managers to manage the training aspects of PADS puppy raising program. PADS training philosophy is based on scientifically supported operant and classical conditioning training methods and PADS trainers teach dog obedience and skills using principles of clicker/marker training.

The Puppy-Raising Supervisor is a full-time position and is the primary contact person for all issues in the puppy program in the lower mainland relating to dog training, general care and behaviour issues. This position works collaboratively with the Puppy Program Administrator, the Puppy Program Trainers and the Puppy-Raising Supervisors in other regions to ensure that our organizational, volunteer and puppy-in-training requirements are being met.

Main Responsibilities

• Teach beginner and intermediate evening puppy classes as per current training curriculum
• Substitute teach puppy kindergarten classes when and if required
• Coordinate puppy program training plans and activities with Puppy Program Trainers under the direction of the Puppy Program Manager
• Attend puppy program conference calls and meetings bi-weekly
• Submit weekly puppy class lesson plans to Puppy Program Manager
• Review monthly puppy reports for all levels while identifying concerns and/or behavioral and handler problems
• Perform one on one training with raisers and sitters as scheduling requires which may include weekday, evenings and weekend work.
• In tandem with the Puppy Program Administrator and the Puppy Program Manager (as well as other regions) review proposed puppy raiser assignments for new puppies entering the program
• In consultation with the Puppy Program Manager and the Puppy Program Administrator, organize puppy training (home) swaps
• Working in conjunction with Advanced Kennel Assistant, organize turn-in orientations for all volunteers with puppies entering the advanced training program
• Perform and record (video) “Walk and Talks” for puppies in the Burnaby program at age 4 months and 8-10 months and
• Document all individual training sessions, Walk and Talks and all related training and behavioral issues within the puppy’s training files (paper and electronic files). Provide written feedback and video to puppy raiser or sitter within 1 week of training visit
• Participate in puppy/dog assessments when and if required, including on occasion, bringing puppy in training home overnight
• Submit release and spay/neuter requests when necessary
• Write puppy report summary for each dog entering into advanced training
• Organize puppy classes; locations, weekly instructions and provide electronic updates to all communication platforms and applicable staff.

Qualifications

• High school graduation is (Required)
• KPA-CTP (Preferred)
• CBATI (Preferred)
• A combination of skills is essential including a strong knowledge and basic experience in canine learning theory including canine behavior, training and behaviour assessments, general dog care and safety. Also, fundamental knowledge of canine nutrition, anatomy and physiology
• Broad experience relating to canines and individuals for partnership training
• Good working knowledge of adult education and demonstrated skill for teaching adults
• A sensitivity to working with individuals with disabilities is required. A familiarity with terminology, medical requirements, psychological and social factors would be beneficial
• Clear and receptive verbal and written communication style while conversing with individuals, in groups and the public at large
• Demonstrated ability to clicker/ marker train
• Demonstrated capacity to work in a busy and at times, noisy work environment
• Demonstrated interest in learning new training techniques
• Demonstrated capability in problem-solving, reasoning, and organizational skills
• Effective time management
• Solid record of having engaged in positive, productive working relationships. High level of earned trust, appropriate confidentiality and sound judgment in conduct and interactions
• Satisfactory results from the applicable Provincial Ministry’s Criminal Record Check: both at the time of an interview for this position and throughout the duration of employment at PADS
• Ability to lift 50 lbs. of food products for up to 200 feet and dogs weighing 80 lbs. for up to 10 feet
• Efficient use of PCs; the Internet; and MS Word, Excel, and Outlook. Ability to learn new software
• Valid BC Driver’s License, at a minimum level of Class 5
• Use of personal vehicle will be required for travel to and from puppy raiser homes and training locations not at Burnaby campus. Such use will be reimbursed at PADS mileage rate (currently .50 cents per km)
• Ability to work a flexible schedule when and if required.

The base wage for this position is $16.00 – $17.50/hour based on relative expertise (employee benefits package available). Regular reviews and increases based on job performance and experience.