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Pet Training Instructor I Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

See More See Less As a PetSmart Pet Trainer, you'll be joining the nations' largest pet retailer as an essential member of our dynamic store teams. PetSmart is seeking Pet Trainers who are passionate ...

See More See Less As a PetSmart Pet Trainer, you'll be joining the nations' largest pet retailer as an essential member of our dynamic store teams. PetSmart is seeking Pet Trainers who are passionate ...

See More See Less As a PetSmart Pet Trainer, you'll be joining the nations' largest pet retailer as an essential member of our dynamic store teams. PetSmart is seeking Pet Trainers who are passionate ...

See More See Less As a PetSmart Pet Trainer, you'll be joining the nations' largest pet retailer as an essential member of our dynamic store teams. PetSmart is seeking Pet Trainers who are passionate ...

See More See Less As a PetSmart Pet Trainer, you'll be joining the nations' largest pet retailer as an essential member of our dynamic store teams. PetSmart is seeking Pet Trainers who are passionate ...

See More See Less As a PetSmart Pet Trainer, you'll be joining the nations' largest pet retailer as an essential member of our dynamic store teams. PetSmart is seeking Pet Trainers who are passionate ...

See More See Less As a PetSmart Pet Trainer, you'll be joining the nations' largest pet retailer as an essential member of our dynamic store teams. PetSmart is seeking Pet Trainers who are passionate ...

See More See Less As a PetSmart Pet Trainer, you'll be joining the nations' largest pet retailer as an essential member of our dynamic store teams. PetSmart is seeking Pet Trainers who are passionate ...

See More See Less As a PetSmart Pet Trainer, you'll be joining the nations' largest pet retailer as an essential member of our dynamic store teams. PetSmart is seeking Pet Trainers who are passionate ...

See More See Less As a PetSmart Pet Trainer, you'll be joining the nations' largest pet retailer as an essential member of our dynamic store teams. PetSmart is seeking Pet Trainers who are passionate ...

See More See Less As a PetSmart Pet Trainer, you'll be joining the nations' largest pet retailer as an essential member of our dynamic store teams. PetSmart is seeking Pet Trainers who are passionate ...

See More See Less As a PetSmart Pet Trainer, you'll be joining the nations' largest pet retailer as an essential member of our dynamic store teams. PetSmart is seeking Pet Trainers who are passionate ...

See More See Less As a PetSmart Pet Trainer, you'll be joining the nations' largest pet retailer as an essential member of our dynamic store teams. PetSmart is seeking Pet Trainers who are passionate ...

Development opportunities Job Summary PetSmart's Pet Training Instructor is responsible for engaging with pet parents and their pets while providing positive experiences and upholding the company ...

Development opportunities Job Summary PetSmart's Pet Training Instructor is responsible for engaging with pet parents and their pets while providing positive experiences and upholding the company ...

Development opportunities Job Summary PetSmart's Pet Training Instructor is responsible for engaging with pet parents and their pets while providing positive experiences and upholding the company ...

Pet Trainer

Knightdale, NC · On-site

$13.07 - $19.57/hr

Development opportunities Job Summary PetSmart's Pet Training Instructor is responsible for engaging with pet parents and their pets while providing positive experiences and upholding the company ...

Pet Trainer

Apex, NC · On-site

$13.07 - $19.57/hr

Development opportunities Job Summary PetSmart's Pet Training Instructor is responsible for engaging with pet parents and their pets while providing positive experiences and upholding the company ...

Development opportunities Job Summary PetSmart's Pet Training Instructor is responsible for engaging with pet parents and their pets while providing positive experiences and upholding the company ...

Pet Trainer

Morrisville, NC · On-site

$13.07 - $19.57/hr

Development opportunities Job Summary PetSmart's Pet Training Instructor is responsible for engaging with pet parents and their pets while providing positive experiences and upholding the company ...

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Showing results 1-20

Pet Training Instructor I information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$34.5K

$66.8K

$100.6K

How much do pet training instructor i jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for pet training instructor i in Raleigh, NC is $66,760.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,400.00 and $72,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Pet Training Instructor I?

A Pet Training Instructor I is an entry-level professional who teaches basic obedience and behavioral skills to pets, primarily dogs, and sometimes cats or other animals. They work with pet owners to address common issues such as house training, socialization, and responding to commands. Instructors may lead group classes or offer private sessions, focusing on positive reinforcement and humane training methods. This role typically requires strong communication skills, patience, and a genuine love for animals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Pet Training Instructor I?

To thrive as a Pet Training Instructor I, you need a foundational understanding of animal behavior, positive reinforcement techniques, and basic dog training principles, often supported by a high school diploma or animal care coursework. Familiarity with training aids, reward-based systems, and, in some cases, certifications like CPDT-KA are typical for this role. Patience, strong communication, and the ability to engage both pets and pet owners are essential soft skills. These abilities ensure effective training sessions, foster positive client relationships, and promote animal well-being and safety.

What are some common challenges Pet Training Instructor I professionals face when working with pet owners and their animals?

As a Pet Training Instructor I, one common challenge is adapting training techniques to suit different breeds, temperaments, and learning speeds of both pets and their owners. Instructors often need to manage group dynamics in classes, ensuring that each pet receives appropriate attention and that owners feel supported and informed. Building trust and clear communication with pet owners is essential, especially when addressing behavioral issues or setbacks. Patience and adaptability are key, as progress can vary widely from one pet to another.

What is the difference between Pet Training Instructor I vs Pet Training Instructor II?

AspectPet Training Instructor IPet Training Instructor II
CertificationsBasic pet training certifications, such as CPDT-KA or equivalentAdvanced certifications or additional specialized training
Work EnvironmentEntry-level training sessions, basic obedience classesMore complex training, handling challenging behaviors
ResponsibilitiesAssist in training, follow established programsLead training sessions, develop training plans

The main difference between Pet Training Instructor I and II lies in experience, responsibilities, and certification levels. Instructor I typically performs basic training tasks, while Instructor II handles more advanced training and leadership roles within the industry.

Where do pet training instructors make the most money?

Pet training instructors tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for pet services, such as urban areas or affluent communities. Experience, certifications, and specialization in certain training methods can also influence earning potential, regardless of location.
Infographic showing various Pet Training Instructor I job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,760 per year, or $32.1 per hour.

Pet Training Instructor I

Garner, NC


PetSmart
Retail • 10K+ employees

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 1,115 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

21st of 39 rated national retailers

People enjoy working here

Recommended by students

Recommended by parents


Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

See More See Less
Job Description 

As a PetSmart Pet Trainer, you'll be joining the nations' largest pet retailer as an essential member of our dynamic store teams.  PetSmart is seeking Pet Trainers who are passionate about helping to strengthen the bond between pet parents and their pets through a fun and social education experience.  Our Pet Trainers educate store teams to build support for the Pet Training program, maintain store pet training displays and promotional materials. 

PetSmart is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, genetics, and protected veteran status, as well as any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law.

For applicants in our Waterloo, San Francisco, or Los Angeles locations: Pursuant to the Waterloo and San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, as well as the Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring, we will consider for employment, qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records in a manner consistent with the law

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About PetSmart

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At PetSmart, Anything for Pets begins with our people. Every associate plays a vital role in creating meaningful experiences for pets and their families, and we empower our teams with the tools, resources, and opportunities to grow and succeed. With 50,000+ associates nationwide, we foster a culture grounded in integrity, teamwork, and inclusion - where your voice is heard, your efforts are valued and your career can thrive. Together, we make a difference for pets, their people and each other.

Industry

Retail and legal services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Phoenix, AZ, US


What PetSmart employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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