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Assistant Dog Trainer Jobs in Renton, WA (NOW HIRING)

Dog Handler

Seattle, WA · On-site

$21.30 - $22.87/hr

Become an proficient Gingr user and communicating with pet parents * Assist with dog rotations and ... Cross-train for other positions within the company over time (concierge, pack leader, trainer ...

Dog Handler

Seattle, WA · On-site

$21.30 - $22.87/hr

Become a proficient POS software/app user * Assist with dog rotations and mealtimes * Assist with ... Cross-train for other positions within the company over time (concierge, pack leader, trainer ...

Dog Handler

Seattle, WA

$21.30 - $22.87/hr

Become a proficient POS software/app user * Assist with dog rotations and mealtimes * Assist with ... Cross-train for other positions within the company over time (concierge, pack leader, trainer ...

Dog Handler

Seattle, WA · On-site

$21.30 - $22.87/hr

Become a proficient POS software/app user * Assist with dog rotations and mealtimes * Assist with ... Cross-train for other positions within the company over time (concierge, pack leader, trainer ...

Dog Handler

Seattle, WA · On-site

$14.50 - $18.75/hr

Become an proficient Gingr user and communicating with pet parents * Assist with dog rotations and ... Cross-train for other positions within the company over time (concierge, pack leader, trainer ...

Dog Handler

Seattle, WA

$14.50 - $18.75/hr

Become an proficient Gingr user and communicating with pet parents * Assist with dog rotations and ... Cross-train for other positions within the company over time (concierge, pack leader, trainer ...

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Part Time Canine Handler

Kent, WA · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

... training games, and one-on-one engagement. * Assist with feeding routines, medication support, and special care instructions under management direction. * Safely transition dogs between daycare rooms ...

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Part Time Canine Handler

Kent, WA · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

... training games, and one-on-one engagement. * Assist with feeding routines, medication support, and special care instructions under management direction. * Safely transition dogs between daycare rooms ...

Laborer - Red Dog

Tacoma, WA

$19 - $24.50/hr

Barge Operations Support: Assist in securing and releasing mooring lines. * Cleaning & Maintenance ... Training in heavy equipment operation * Assisting with electrical and hydraulic repairs * Working ...

Millwright - Red Dog

Tacoma, WA

$27 - $35.50/hr

Repair & Maintain Barge Conveyor Systems to ensure efficient operation. * Assist in General Barge ... Training in heavy equipment operation * Assisting with electrical and hydraulic repairs * Working ...

Concierge

Seattle, WA · On-site

$21.30 - $22.87/hr

... etc * Assist with the care of the Puppy Nursery and Senior Center pooches throughout the shift ... Cross-train for other positions within the company over time * Complete training as a Dog Handler ...

Laborer - Red Dog

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$19 - $24.25/hr

Barge Operations Support: Assist in securing and releasing mooring lines. * Cleaning & Maintenance ... Training in heavy equipment operation * Assisting with electrical and hydraulic repairs * Working ...

Laborer - Red Dog

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$19 - $24.25/hr

Barge Operations Support: Assist in securing and releasing mooring lines. * Cleaning & Maintenance ... Training in heavy equipment operation * Assisting with electrical and hydraulic repairs * Working ...

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Showing results 1-20

Assistant Dog Trainer information

See Renton, WA salary details

$18K

$47.3K

$78.7K

How much do assistant dog trainer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant dog trainer in Renton, WA is $47,287.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27,000.00 and $56,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an assistant dog trainer?

Assistant Dog Trainers are professionals who support lead dog trainers in teaching dogs obedience, agility, and other skills. They help with training sessions, work on reinforcing commands, manage dogs' behavior, and assist in maintaining a safe and positive training environment. Assistant Dog Trainers may also interact with dog owners, provide feedback, and help with administrative tasks related to training programs. This role is a great entry point for those interested in pursuing a career in animal training or behavior.

What does an assistant dog trainer do?

Assistant dog trainers help run coaching classes for pet owners and their dogs or help prepare service animals for their duties. As an assistant dog training, your responsibilities may include ensuring leashes are adequately secured and that all equipment and supplies, such as treats, obstacles, or training equipment, are accessible during the class. You learn to train dogs by observing the head dog trainer; once you have worked in the field for a while, the head dog trainer may allow you to perform some of the training techniques on dog clients. Other job duties may include administrative tasks, such as confirming client appointments, scheduling canine behavior classes, and cleaning up after the lessons.

What is the difference between Assistant Dog Trainer vs Dog Trainer?

AspectAssistant Dog TrainerDog Trainer
CertificationsBasic dog training certifications, on-the-job trainingAdvanced certifications, professional credentials (e.g., CPDT-KA)
Work EnvironmentAssisting in training sessions, kennels, training facilitiesLeading training sessions, client consultations, private or group classes
Employer & IndustryAnimal shelters, training centers, pet storesTraining centers, private businesses, doggy daycare

Assistant Dog Trainers support experienced trainers by assisting in training sessions and caring for dogs, often requiring basic certifications. Dog Trainers lead training programs, work directly with clients, and typically hold advanced credentials. Both roles are vital in the pet training industry, but Dog Trainers usually have more responsibility and specialized qualifications.

What are some common challenges assistant dog trainers face when working with clients and their pets?

Assistant Dog Trainers often encounter challenges such as managing dogs with varying temperaments and behavioral issues, as well as addressing owners’ expectations and consistency in training. Building rapport with both the dog and the owner is crucial, as successful training depends on owner involvement and follow-through at home. Additionally, working under the guidance of a lead trainer means adapting to different training methods and being open to feedback, which can be an excellent learning opportunity for career growth.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant dog trainer?

To thrive as an Assistant Dog Trainer, you need knowledge of canine behavior, basic obedience training techniques, and often a high school diploma or relevant animal care experience. Familiarity with training tools like leashes, clickers, and positive reinforcement methods, as well as certifications from organizations such as the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT), are commonly beneficial. Patience, strong communication, and a genuine passion for working with animals are essential soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial for effectively training dogs, ensuring safety, and fostering positive relationships with both pets and their owners.
What are the most commonly searched types of Dog Trainer jobs in Renton, WA? The most popular types of Dog Trainer jobs in Renton, WA are:
What are popular job titles related to Assistant Dog Trainer jobs in Renton, WA? For Assistant Dog Trainer jobs in Renton, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Assistant Dog Trainer jobs in Renton, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Assistant Dog Trainer jobs in Renton, WA are:
What cities near Renton, WA are hiring for Assistant Dog Trainer jobs? Cities near Renton, WA with the most Assistant Dog Trainer job openings:
Infographic showing various Assistant Dog Trainer job openings in Renton, WA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, and 30% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,287 per year, or $22.7 per hour.

Assistant Dog Trainer (Tacoma, WA) - Instructor Track

Paws for Purple Hearts

Tacoma, WA • On-site

$21 - $23/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

The Paws for Purple Hearts’ Assistant Dog Trainer position is a feeder position for the Associate Program Instructor position. Promotion to the Associate Program Instructor will be considered with completion of probationary period and successfully meeting training benchmarks.

The Paws for Purple Hearts’ Assistant Dog Trainer is expected to have met the following specific educational requirements:

  • AS degree
  • Preferably volunteer experience with assistance dog organizations.

Prior experience preferred for this position includes:

  • Two-years experience in human service/mental health field (licensing may be required based on assignment);
  • One-year experience in dog handling/training or kennel work, desirable if with assistance dogs;
  • Work in or knowledge of the assistance dogs field;
  • A background in teaching or human health services related to disabilities (particularly Veterans' mental health or mobility).

Basic qualifications include the following areas:

  • A strong desire to teach dogs to help people;
  • Knowledge of and or interest in teaching people to train puppies and dogs using positive methods;
  • Knowledge of or an interest in understanding and working with Warriors (active-duty and Veteran military personnel) with physical and psychological injuries;
  • Knowledge of or an interest in symptomatology related to Post Traumatic Stress acquired from military deployments and other circumstances;
  • Licensing from a board of behavioral science may be required based on assignment;
  • Accurate reporting and record keeping;
  • Good communication and interpersonal skills;
  • Ability to make presentations to the general public or other interested parties;
  • Ability to complete all requirements for the locations of our services, which may include TB testing, vaccination requirements, and background checks to gain clearance to military bases and locations;
  • Valid driver's license;
  • Compatibility with PPH’s direction and purpose.

Responsibilities:

  • As assigned by and under close supervision of the Senior Program Instructor and Site Manager under the direction of the National Dog Program Director, assist in the implementation and maintenance of the Paws for Purple Hearts Assistance Dog Training Program and the specialty management roles as appropriate to each regional site;
  • As assigned by and under close supervision of the Senior Program Instructor and Site Manager under the direction of the National Dog Program Director, assist with the concept of dogs helping veterans, active-duty military and other military personnel;
  • As assigned by and under close supervision of the Senior Program Instructor and Site Manager under the direction of the National Dog Program Director, assist in the development of an influential stakeholders group to compliment and sustain the program;
  • Continuing professional education, including, if instructed for job promotional purposes;
  • Commitment to PPH’s mission, goals, objectives;
  • All other duties as assigned by the Senior Program Instructor as approved by the National Dog Program Director, the Site Manager or Regional Director or the National staff responsible for that specialty.

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Employee assistance program
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Opportunities for advancement
  • Paid time off
  • Retirement plan
  • Vision insurance

Schedule:

  • 8 hour shift
  • Day shift
  • Evenings as needed
  • Monday to Friday
  • Weekends as needed
  • Occasional traveling

Application Question(s):

  • Are you willing to complete all requirements including but not limited to required vaccines, TB testing, and paperwork for military base access in order to provide the services to our clients and participants?

Ability to Relocate:

  • Tacoma, WA 98402: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person

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