Service Dog Instructor

As a certified service dog instructor, you will train service dogs for veterans living with physical and invisible wounds. You will instruct and support students and graduates through class, fieldwork, and follow-up, and you will maintain accurate and timely documentation throughout the process. You will work closely with the Program Director, Training team, Canine Care, Admissions, and Alumni Support to provide consistent support and guide students from class through home training and long-term follow-up. You will also contribute to a training environment that produces confident, reliable service dogs and successful working teams.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Dog Training

• Train and evaluate service dogs using positive-reinforcement methods aligned with ADI and Dogs Inc standards.
• Lead daily training routes, task sessions, and real-world exposures.
• Observe behavioral or medical concerns and communicate them promptly.
• Collaborate with the Program Director and Guide Dog Training on career path decisions for dogs in training.

Student Instruction

• Teach students how to work safely, confidently, and effectively with their service dogs.
• Support students during class, home-based training, and follow-ups.
• Conduct home interviews, in-home training, and post-placement visits (in-state and occasional out-of-state travel).
• Communicate with clarity, empathy, and consistency.

Program & Cross-Team Collaboration

• Partner with Admissions on interviews, class preparation, and student selection.
• Assist with class logistics, recertifications, alumni visits, and campus demonstrations for donors and guests.
• Work closely with Canine Care, Alumni Support, and Guide Dog Training to keep training goals aligned.

Documentation & Standards

• Maintain accurate, timely documentation in IWDR, ProVet, and other systems.
• Follow Dogs Inc policies and uphold ADI accreditation standards.
• Support program improvements and priorities set by the Program Director.

Team Contribution

• Support apprentice development and contribute to a high-performing training team.
• Model professionalism, reliability, and constructive communication.
• Represent Dogs Inc positively with puppy raisers, volunteers, graduates, and campus visitors.

Required

• High school diploma or GED.
• At least 3 years of dog training experience—or equivalent demonstrated success training working dogs.
• Ability to train and assess dogs for advanced task work and public access.
• Strong communication skills for both group and one-on-one instruction.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and cloud-based tools.
• Valid driver’s license.

Strongly Preferred

• ADI-certified service dog instructor.
  •  If you’re not certified yet but have strong working-dog training skills, we can provide a path to certification.
• Degree in psychology, animal behavior, or a related field.
• Familiarity with PTSD, mobility challenges, and other disabilities served by the program.
• Experience with IWDR or similar behavior/training databases.
• AKC CGC Evaluator and CPR/First Aid certifications.

Physical Requirements

• Stand and walk for extended periods.
• Lift up to 50 lbs independently.
• Use hands and fingers for training, handling, grooming, and data entry.
• Work indoors and outdoors in varied weather conditions.
• Perform tasks requiring close vision, depth perception, and color recognition.
• Work indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Exposure to moderate noise typical of training environments.
• Occasional travel required

At Dogs Inc, we don’t just change lives—we transform them. When you join our pack, you’ll get:

• Comprehensive Benefits: Full dental and vision insurance premiums covered, competitive medical coverage, and a $15,000 life insurance policy.
• Retirement Match: A discretionary retirement plan match for all benefit-eligible employees after one full year of employment.
• Campus Perks: Free access to our fitness center and chef-prepared lunches served on campus (Monday-Friday).
• Time to Recharge: Generous Paid Time Off policies (12-20 days/year based on tenure). Enjoy 14 paid holidays—including your birthday!
• Reward-Based Programs: Our Learn and Earn education program and Pawsitive Strides walking program offer many opportunities to earn additional Paid Time Off.
• Dog-Friendly Workplace: Bring your well-behaved, pre-screened dog to work and enjoy the ultimate companion-friendly environment.