ASSOCIATE DOG TRAINER

Job DetailsJob Location: Beckys Corporate Office - Springfield, VA 22150Position Type: Full-Time/Part-TimeJob Category: Pet Care Services Associate Dog Trainer  Are you passionate about canine behavior, dedicated to force-free training, and eager to launch a professional dog training career? Becky’s Pet Care is seeking an Associate Dog Trainer to join our team! In this role, you will support our premier Walk and Train program by assisting with enrichment walks and foundational training tasks. Under the guidance and mentorship of our senior trainers, you will help reinforce basic manners, observe behavior, and build trust with clients—all while deepening your own professional skills through hands-on experience and structured internal training. If you have a background in animal care and want to transition into professional training, this is the perfect opportunity to grow with a supportive, established team. Job Purpose As an Associate Dog Trainer at Becky’s Pet Care Inc, you will be responsible for supporting the training and development of dogs to enhance their behavior and obedience skills. Your role will involve working closely with pet owners to understand their needs and provide effective training solutions. You will contribute to creating a positive and enriching experience for dogs and their owners, ensuring a high standard of care and professionalism. Job Duties & Responsibilities   1. Training Implementation & Foundational Support   Session Assistance: Assist with Walk and Train sessions focused on leash manners, impulse control, and basic socialization. Reinforcement: Reinforce training cues using humane, force-free techniques under senior supervision. Observation & Reporting: Observe, track, and report dog behavior during walks to support and adjust customized training plans. Safety & Handling: Follow strict safety protocols and expert handling practices in the field to ensure the safety of the pets in your care. 2. Client & Team Development   Client Communication: Provide exceptional customer service by communicating clearly and compassionately with clients regarding session highlights and enrichment goals. Professional Growth: Actively participate in ongoing professional development, shadowing opportunities, and feedback sessions with senior staff. Professional Conduct: Model professionalism, empathy, and a high standard of care in all client and dog interactions.   QualificationsQualifications & Requirements   Experience & Background (Required)   At least 6 months of professional or volunteer experience in pet care, dog walking, dog daycare, shelter work, or animal handling. A demonstrated, passionate interest in dog training and canine behavior. Training Readiness: Must be willing and able to complete Becky's Pet Care internal training modules, including our Enrichment and Medication Certification, upon hire. Skills & Knowledge   Technical Knowledge: Familiarity with canine body language and basic positive reinforcement training principles. Handling Skills: Comfortable and confident handling dogs of various sizes, breeds, and temperaments on a leash. Core Values: A strict commitment to humane, force-free, positive reinforcement methods (no shock, prong, or choke collars). Work Ethic: Exceptional time management, punctuality, reliable transportation, and a strong willingness to learn. Education   High School diploma or GED. Current enrollment in, or a strong desire to pursue, professional dog training coursework or certification (e.g., CPDT-KA, Fear Free, Karen Pryor Academy) is a major plus. Schedule, Physical Demands & Work Environment   Schedule Requirements: This role requires flexibility. Candidates must be available for early mornings, evenings, weekends, and occasional holidays based on program needs and client availability. Physical Demands: This is a highly active outdoor role. You must be able to stand and walk for extended periods, kneel, squat, safely handle strong dogs, and lift/push/pull up to 50 pounds. Work Environment: This is a field-based role taking place in clients' homes and outdoors. You must be comfortable working independently and in all seasonal weather conditions (heat, cold, rain, etc.).