ADVANCED DOG TRAINER | Accepting Applications

POSITION OVERVIEW

Are you ready to embark on a journey where every wag of a tail makes a difference? At Pacific Assistance Dogs Society (PADS), we’re dedicated to changing lives, one dog at a time. We’re currently seeking a passionate and skilled individual to join us as an Advanced Dog Trainer, helping us fulfill our mission of providing assistance dogs to our waiting clients.

 

ABOUT US

We’re an organization driven by passionate people – that change lives every single day. We expect excellence of ourselves and our team, but we have fun too. PADS breeds, raises and trains fully certified assistance dogs. Our service (mobility & PTSD) and hearing dogs provide life-changing independence to those with disabilities other than blindness. Our accredited facility dogs work with community professionals, such as teachers, RCMP and psychologists to help support wellness in our community.

We’re proud of the fact that we were the first fully accredited member of Assistance Dogs International in Canada.

About our training philosophy

PADS’ training philosophy is relationship centered, and based on current, evidence-based training methods and follows a Least Invasive Minimally Aversive (LIMA) approach. PADS Trainers teach advanced sitters the skills they need to teach their advanced dogs in the area of Skills, Manners and Socialization. PADS Trainers teach clients how to follow the LIMA principles when working with their canine partners.

ABOUT THE POSITION

As an Advanced Dog Trainer, you’ll play a vital role in our training program, assisting with the training of adult dogs and supporting our team in making successful placements with clients. You’ll be responsible for the care and training of a cohort of approximately 6 advanced dogs, working closely with volunteers and adhering to our training protocols.

What You’ll Do

  • Train and care for a cohort of approximately 6 advanced dogs, as well as the volunteers that support them.
  • Maintain accurate training records and assist with assessments to ensure dogs are a fit for our program.
  • Participate in grooming, medical care, and transportation of dogs to various locations.
  • Help with kennel and yard maintenance to ensure our facilities are clean and safe.
  • Support administrative tasks, attend meetings, and engage in public education efforts.

Working Conditions

  • This role requires lifting 50-70lb dogs and walkng 4-6km/day while exercising or training dogs
  • Expect some physical tasks and outdoor work
  • Position based at our Burnaby or Calgary campus with occasional off-site training.
  • Regular interaction with dogs and clients, requiring sensory attention and awareness.

Qualifications & Skills

  • High school diploma is required
  • Previous experience with dog training or grooming is an asset, however, formal dog training education is preferred (e.g. Karen Pryor Academy, Jean Donaldson Academy, The School of Canine Science, Absolute Dogs Pro Dog Trainer, Grisha Stewart Behaviour Adjustment Training)
  • Knowledge and basic experience in canine learning theory including canine behaviour, general health care and safety, knowledge of canine nutrition, anatomy and physiology
  • Working knowledge of adult education and demonstrated skill for teaching adults
  • Previous experience and demonstrated ability to clicker/marker train
  • Previous experience working in a busy, noisy, fast paced environment is required.
  • Proven success in a role where you had to be coached and develop new skills specific to the role
  • Previous experience working with diverse population with varying abilities and needs is preferred
  • Basic working knowledge of disabilities specific to PADS clients, including: familiarity with terminology, medical requirements, and psychological and social factors

 

DETAILS & COMPENSATION

This is a full time position working out of our Burnaby, BC or Calgary, AB Campus. The PADS Advanced Trainer shares work space and equipment with other employees at PADS’ facilities. Most of the time, work is scheduled from Monday to Friday, 7.5 hours per day, from 9 am to 5 pm with a 30-minute unpaid lunch break.Β  There may occasionally be need to work evenings or weekends.

The position is compensated at $23.73/hr with a benefits package that includes RRSP Match, Extended Health after the 3 month probation period.

 

BE YOU.Β WITH US.

We serve communities that are greater and stronger because of their diversity. What makes YOU different is worth both celebrating and cultivating.

PADS is committed to equality across race, gender, age, religion, identity, ability, and experience. We invite you to bring your whole self to our team, helping us to change lives, one dog β€”and personβ€”at a time.

DOES THIS ALL SOUND LIKE A GOOD FIT?

Submit your CV and cover letter below before April 1, 2024.

Accommodation will be provided in all parts of the hiring process. Applicants are invited to make required accommodations known in advance.

We thank all applicants for their interest and will contact only those applicants selected for further considerations. Please note that submissions will be reviewed on an ongoing basis, and therefore early submission is encouraged. The position is available immediately.

APPLICATIONS ARE NOW CLOSED