Service Dog Trainer

NEADS Service Dogs is a national not-for-profit organization that trains and provides world-class Service Dogs for people with physical disabilities, hearing loss, veterans with PTSD, children with autism, and professionals in hospital, courthouse, and educational settings. We are proud to be an accredited member of Assistance Dogs International (ADI).

NEADS is seeking a highly motivated, compassionate, and skilled Service Dog Trainer to join our dynamic training team. The ideal candidate will have prior experience working with service dogs at an ADI-accredited organization and be committed to the highest standards of canine training, care, and client service. This is a hands-on role that includes training service dogs, teaching classes, and working closely with both our clients and incarcerated individuals in a prison-based training program.

Primary Responsibilities

• Train service dogs in obedience, task work, public access skills, and behavior management in accordance with NEADS’ training protocols.
• Evaluate, maintain, and document training progress for assigned dogs using NEADS tracking systems.
• Teach and supervise dog training classes inside correctional institutions as part of NEADS’ Prison PUP Program. Trainers must be comfortable working within a prison environment and collaborating with correctional staff.
• Provide support, guidance, and instruction to Incarcerated Individuals who are training NEADS dogs under staff supervision.
• Collaborate with the training team to prepare dogs for placement with clients, ensuring they meet all ADI and NEADS standards.
• Conduct client training classes, including matching service dogs with individuals and teaching clients how to handle and care for their new service dog.
• Provide ongoing support and troubleshooting for clients post-placement.
• Assist in the assessment and selection of dogs for the program as needed.
• Participate in public demonstrations, outreach, and educational events as a representative of NEADS.
• Contribute to the development and refinement of training protocols and client education materials.
• Ensure the health, safety, and welfare of all dogs in training.

Position Requirements

• Minimum of 2 years of professional service dog training experience, preferably at an ADI-accredited organization.
• Strong knowledge of canine behavior, positive reinforcement training, and task-based service dog work.
• Experience training dogs for a variety of disabilities, including physical disabilities, PTSD, and hearing loss, is highly desirable.
• Must be comfortable working in a correctional institution and able to maintain professional conduct and clear boundaries within that setting.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and instructional skills.
• Comfortable working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs, stand for extended periods, and work in a physically active environment.
• Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel locally to prison facilities and training sites.
• Ability to pass background checks, including those required for prison access, and adhere to NEADS’ safety, privacy, and training standards.

Qualifications

• Completion of a formal dog training program or apprenticeship with an ADI-accredited organization or equivalent.
• Familiarity with NEADS’ training model is a plus.
• Knowledge of ADI standards and guidelines.

Compensation

• Starting at $20/hr.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance
• Employer Matched 403b
• Paid Vacation and Holidays
• Employee Assistance Program
• Flexible Spending programs

How to Apply
Please submit the form below with your resume and a cover letter to Andy Woodcock, Director of Training, detailing your experience with service dog training, particularly at ADI-accredited organizations, and your interest in working in correctional facilities.