Canine Programming Trainer

Clear Path for Veterans

Chittenango, NY

Job Title:                Canine Programming Trainer

FSLA Status:           Non-Exempt/hourly

Work Schedule:       40 hours per week; Tuesday-Saturday; hours may vary

Reports to:              Canine Programming Manager

Job Summary

Clear Path for Veterans is Upstate New York’s Veteran Resource Center serving as a hub of information, programs and services for veterans and their families. The incumbent in this position is responsible for performing the duties of their position as a Canine Programming Trainer in a manner that supports our mission of maximizing overall holistic warrior care and wellness. A candidate will recognize and provide additional support needed for Veterans participating in Canine Programming and connect them to the appropriate resource(s). Engages and works with the program manager to ensure all trainers are consistently using the Canine Programming training syllabus(i). Trains and maintains records of all canines in training programs that fall under Canine Programming. 

Primary Functions

1. Train assigned CPV Canine Program teams to successfully acquire the skills necessary to teach a variety of cues, handling skills and behaviors from basic obedience to service level.
2. Assist in the training and development of all dogs enrolled in the Puppy Development Program and Advance Training.
3. Assist in the coordination of Behavioral Checklist and other evaluations for all dogs in training.
4. Exhibit maximum flexibility to fill in for other trainers as needed.
5. Regularly consult with the Canine Programming team to develop and document an effective class syllabus.
6. Ensure consistency among training techniques.
7. Develop and maintain accurate training records, including attendance and shot records.
8. Efficiently schedule classes and teams in a timely manner.
9. Assist the Program Manager with program evaluations and continually assess them to ensure a streamlined and organized program.
10. Attend and actively participate in departmental and organizational meetings.
11. Promote teamwork by communicating regularly and effectively with Manager and other Canine Programming staff. Should cover a variety of topics including Canine Program team progress; assistance needed; resolving issues; sharing new techniques; and any other topics that make for a more effective team.
12. May be required to respond to dog health or behavioral emergencies with Clear Path owned dogs or participant dogs on off hours.
13. Coordinate training for Veterans or other appropriate persons participating in Canine Programming activities.
14. Represent, or assist in representing Clear Path for Veterans at a variety of community events and other activities.
15. Complete other related duties as assigned.

Education and Experience

• High School Diploma or GED equivalency required, Bachelor’s degree preferable.
• 3-5 years of proven successful experience training dogs using modern training techniques.
• Experience with both group and private training sessions
• Experience with and knowledge of Assistance Dogs training and standards
• Experience working with or maintaining extended associations with Veterans preferred.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• The ability to be compassionate, yet firm and exercise sound judgement.
• Working knowledge of dog behavior and communication.
• Ability to problem solve dog behavior issues.
• Ability to multi task with multiple dogs.
• Superior interpersonal and communication skills.
• Exceptional organizational skills.
• Computer literacy and the ability to operate office equipment sufficient to perform the functions of the job.
• Ability to understand and work with PTS, MST, and TBI in Veterans.
• Knowledge of Military and Warrior culture.
• Ability to exhibit passion and support for the mission of Clear Path for Veterans.

Additional Requirements

• Will be required to work weekends, evenings as needed.
• Participate in special events as required.
• Maintain cleanliness and functionality of dog use areas
• Must obtain American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen Evaluator certification within 6 months of employment

Work Location

As a Canine Programming team member, work locations will vary depending on day-to-day tasks and responsibilities. Active attendance at Clear Path for Veterans main location (1223 Salt Springs Road, Chittenango, NY 13037) will be required when not conducting off-site tasks.  

Physical Abilities needed in order to perform the job in a satisfactory manner

Must possess speech and hearing sufficient for telephone and in-person communications.  Manual dexterity sufficient for constant use of computer keyboard and other office equipment.  Vision sufficient for frequent use of a computer monitor, developing and reading paperwork. Must be able to stand and be actively mobile for extended periods of time, including bending, stooping, reaching, running, balancing, etc. Must be able to lift a minimum of 35 lbs.    

• All requirements are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities

Expectations

• Ensure all Clear Path for Veterans employees conduct themselves in a professional manner towards others to include but not limited to; Veterans, volunteers, other Clear Path employees, and visitors.
• Ensure that Veterans, volunteers, employees, or visitors have a positive experience with Clear Path.
• Supports and promotes the Clear Path mission.
• Adheres to Clear Path for Veterans policies and procedures.
• Promotes teamwork amongst coworkers.
• Meets or exceeds expected performance standards, including consistently reporting to work on time prepared to perform the duties of the position.

A cover letter is REQUIRED to be considered for the position and should be attached to the application.  Only qualified candidates need apply. Applicants will not be contacted unless selected for further screening or interview. The application period will close on Tuesday, October 08, 2019, at 11:59 pm EST.