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K9 Trainer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

K9s For Warriors Inc

K9 Trainer

Ponte Vedra, FL · On-site

$20.48 - $23.56/hr

ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES Under the direction of the Assistant K9 Training Manager and general supervision of the assigned Lead K9 Trainer, the K9 Trainer is responsible for independently ...

GLOBAL K9 PROTECTION GROUP LLC

K9 Manager MIA

Miami, FL

$63K - $67K/yr

K9 Training * Mentor, Train, Monitor Handler & K9 Proficiency * K9 Medical and Behavioral Assessment * The K9 Manager position was developed to establish local K9 training and guidance and to advise ...

Global K9 Protection Group

K9 Manager MIA

Miami, FL · On-site

$63K - $67K/yr

K9 Training * Mentor, Train, Monitor Handler & K9 Proficiency * K9 Medical and Behavioral Assessment * The K9 Manager position was developed to establish local K9 training and guidance and to advise ...

Constellis

K9 Trainer

Moyock, NC

The Trainer alsoassistswith preparing canines for new operational missions in new and/or evolving operating environments. The Trainer is assigned to a specific geographical region andis responsible ...

Constellis

K9 Trainer

Moyock, NC · On-site

The Trainer also assists with preparing canines for new operational missions in new and/or evolving operating environments. The Trainer is assigned to a specific geographical region and is ...

Off Leash K9 Training

Dog Trainer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$3.2K - $4.2K/mo

Become a dog trainer for the globally recognized dog training business, Off Leash K9 Training! With over 140 licensed locations throughout the United States, over 300,000 fans on Facebook, and over ...

Off Leash K9 Training

Dog Trainer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Become a dog trainer for the globally recognized dog training business, Off Leash K9 Training! With over 140 licensed locations throughout the United States, over 300,000 fans on Facebook, and over ...

Off Leash K9 Training

Dog Trainer

Palm Springs, CA · On-site

Become a dog trainer for the globally recognized dog training business, Off Leash K9 Training! With over 180+ licensed locations throughout the United States, over 500,000+ fans on Facebook, and over ...

Off Leash K9 Training

Dog Trainer

Palm Springs, CA · On-site

Become a dog trainer for the globally recognized dog training business, Off Leash K9 Training! With over 180+ licensed locations throughout the United States, over 500,000+ fans on Facebook, and over ...

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K9 Trainer information

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$123.5K

How much do k9 trainer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for k9 trainer in the United States is $68,607.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,000.00 and $80,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a K9 trainer do?

A K9 Trainer specializes in training dogs, often for roles in law enforcement, military, search-and-rescue, or service work. They teach obedience, scent detection, protection, and other specialized skills based on the dog's intended purpose. Trainers use positive reinforcement, repetition, and behavior conditioning techniques to ensure that dogs perform reliably in high-pressure situations. They may also work closely with handlers to reinforce training and enhance the dog's effectiveness.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a K9 trainer?

To thrive as a K9 Trainer, you need in-depth knowledge of dog behavior, training techniques, and animal care, often supported by experience in veterinary settings or certifications such as those from the National Association of Professional Dog Trainers. Familiarity with specialized training tools, scent detection equipment, and behavior assessment systems is essential for this role. Patience, strong observation skills, and effective communication help build trust with both dogs and their handlers or owners. These abilities ensure successful training outcomes, safety, and strong working relationships between the K9 teams and their organizations.

What are the typical duties and work environments for a K9 trainer?

K9 Trainers are responsible for developing and implementing training programs tailored to dogs involved in law enforcement, search and rescue, or service work. Daily tasks often include conducting obedience sessions, scent detection drills, agility training, and providing guidance to handlers on effective techniques. The role may involve working both indoors and outdoors, sometimes in challenging or unpredictable environments to simulate real-world scenarios. Trainers usually collaborate with law enforcement officers, veterinarians, and other specialists to ensure successful outcomes for each dog and team. This hands-on, dynamic environment offers opportunities for continuous skill development and career advancement within specialized K9 fields.

Can I make a living as a K9 trainer?

A K9 trainer can make a living by providing training services to law enforcement, military, or private clients, often earning income through hourly rates, contracts, or ongoing training programs. Success and income levels depend on experience, specialization, reputation, and the ability to build a client base; certifications and practical skills are important for higher earning potential.
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K9 Trainer jobs near you
Infographic showing various K9 Trainer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,607 per year, or $33 per hour.

K9 Trainer

K9s For Warriors Inc

Ponte Vedra, FL • On-site

$20.48 - $23.56/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Determined to end Veteran suicide, K9s For Warriors is the leading nonprofit organization providing Service Dogs to military Veterans nationwide suffering from PTSD, traumatic brain injury, and/or military sexual trauma — at no financial cost to the Veteran. Founded in 2011 as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, K9s For Warriors is committed to saving lives at both ends of the leash by primarily rescuing dogs and pairing them with Veterans in need. In order to continue the great work we’re doing, we’re looking to add a K9 Trainer to our amazing team! 

ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Under the direction of the Assistant K9 Training Manager and general supervision of the assigned Lead K9 Trainer, the K9 Trainer is responsible for independently implementing all elements of assistance dog training, including reading dog body language, training procedures, environmental awareness, application of learning theory and related modalities, use of training equipment, training of K9s For Warriors (K9s) skills, dog evaluation, assessment, and reporting.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS 

  • Independently modify dog behavior and train specific service dog tasks from basic to advanced obedience
  • Train obedience and service tasks in alignment with a Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive (LIMA) based training philosophy.
  • Maintain detailed training, evaluation, behavior modification and medical records in accordance with K9s’ policies and procedures
  • Analyze and assess individual dogs; execute a tailored training program and assist with their care 
  • Provide public access exposure to Service Dogs in training 
  • Participate in impulse control, time outs, quiet kennels, temperament testing, group walks, and continuing education sessions
  • Coordinate, run, and supervise dog playgroups; evaluate dog’s stress levels, monitor for rude or aggressive behavior; identify when and how to interrupt inappropriate play.
  • Liaise with kennel staff on assigned dog’s kennel behavior; coordinate dog procedure requests, feeding schedule and enrichment plans through K9 Training Management and Kennel Management; assist K9 Caretakers with cleaning kennels when needed
  • Assist Warrior Trainers with identifying the correct Service Dog for each veteran, initial dog pairing, and provide training assistance through transference 
  • Participate in events, tours and media opportunities to demonstrate the dog’s trained skills to raise awareness and support fundraising and development endeavors. 
  • Participate in training sessions at Paws for Change locations to aid in training for dogs in the Paws for Change program.
  • Perform frequent cleaning of training equipment, vehicles, and campus training areas
  • Participate in public relations presentations and demonstrations showing how Service Dogs provide assistance to veterans with PTSD, TBI, or MST in addition to promoting the mission and encouraging donations
  • Display a positive example regarding work ethic, attitude, professional ethics, knowledge of policies/procedures, interpersonal interactions, and mutual respect
  • Provide exceptional, courteous, and compassionate customer service to the public, volunteers, and other staff members at all times
  • Perform other duties as assigned by supervisor or management

 

 COMPETENCIES

  • Adaptability 
  • Initiative
  • Integrity 
  • Planning and Organizing

 

QUALIFICATIONS AND EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

  • H.S. diploma or equivalent
  • 2 years of professional animal training experience or graduation from the apprenticeship program
  • Experience working with purpose bred and shelter dogs preferred
  • Kennel experience preferred
  • Ability to prioritize and handle multiple tasks, and work independently with minimal supervision
  • Comfortable being photographed, filmed and other interactions with media
  • Good communication skills
  • Valid driver’s license and meet policy requirements for company auto insurance.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

  • Walk 3 to 5 miles per day on average
  • Ability to train dogs in crowded environments on campus and in public
  • Ability to exert a moderate to extensive amount of physical effort, including stooping, crouching, pushing, pulling, walking stairs, climbing, and lifting to fifty (50) pounds individually.  Exposure to unpleasant odors, sounds chemicals, loud noises, and inclement weather.   

 

 


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