Turn Your Passion for Dogs Into Life-Changing Work
Canine Program Manager | Alaqua Animal Refuge
Full Time
Do you believe training is about more than commandsโitโs about communication, trust, and second chances? Alaqua Animal Refuge is seeking a Canine Program Manager to play a vital role in preparing rescue dogs for successful, lifelong homes.
At Alaqua, your skills wonโt just shape behaviorโtheyโll save lives, strengthen the humanโanimal bond, and help dogs overcome the challenges of their pasts. If youโre passionate about humane training, collaboration, and making a tangible difference every single day, weโd love to meet you.
What Youโll Do
Behavior Assessment & Individualized Training
Conduct comprehensive behavior and temperament evaluations for dogs of all breeds, ages, and backgrounds
Create customized training and behavior-modification plans tailored to each dogโs needs
Supervise Animal Care Tech staff to ensure protocols are being followed
Positive Reinforcement Training
Train dogs using science-based, force-free methods
Teach basic obedience, confidence-building skills, socialization, and behavior modification
Address challenges such as fear, anxiety, reactivity, and under-socialization with compassion and expertise
Adopter & Client Education
Coach adopters on positive reinforcement techniques to ensure long-term success
Provide practical, easy-to-follow guidance for reinforcing training at home
Help prevent common behavior issues and strengthen the dogโhuman relationship
Professional Growth & Collaboration
Stay current with industry best practices and evolving training methodologies
Maintain and pursue professional certifications
Work closely with staff, volunteers, and fosters to support each dogโs journey
What Weโre Looking For
Training Credentials & Knowledge
Certification in positive reinforcement dog training from a recognized organization preferred
Strong understanding of canine behavior, learning theory, and humane training principles
Hands-On Experience
Proven experience training dogs using force-free, reward-based methods
Comfortable working with diverse breeds, temperaments, and behavioral needs
Strong Communication Skills
Confident, clear communicatorโboth in person and in writing
Ability to teach, demonstrate, and inspire adopters and team members
Heart for Rescue Work
Deep commitment to animal welfare and ethical treatment
Patience, empathy, and adaptability when working with dogs from challenging backgrounds
Team-Oriented Mindset
Why Alaqua?
At Alaqua Animal Refuge, your work directly impacts outcomesโmore confident dogs, happier adopters, and fewer returns. Youโll be part of a compassionate, dedicated team that values your expertise and supports your growth while doing work that truly matters.
If youโre ready to use your training skills to change livesโboth canine and humanโwe invite you to join us.