| Date Posted: | Mar 25, 2026 | |
| Closing Date: | Apr 30, 2026 |
| Location: | Calgary & area | |
| Status: | Full-Time |
Description
The Puppy Program Trainer is an essential part of PADS mission-related programs. The Trainer is part of an experienced, progressive team committed to helping and supporting one another, and to achieving positive outcomes for our dogs and volunteers. The Trainer independently performs the full spectrum of responsibilities of their position. Trainers teach volunteer puppy-raisers the skills they need to teach their puppies in the areas of skills, manners, and socialization. They work as an active part of the team and pursue ongoing learning at a minimum of 20 Continuing Education Units every 24 months. Trainers identify when a puppy should be released from training or graduated into Service Dog Programs.
As an integral part of the overall PADS Team, the Trainer provides a point of support and information for volunteer puppy-raisers with questions regarding their puppy-in-training or who are experiencing training challenges with their PADS puppies. They are a source of comfort and calm in what can sometimes be stressful situations.
The Trainer works with a cohort of up to 25 puppies and the associated puppy-raiser and sitter volunteers.
Qualifications
QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS
Familiarity with Microsoft Office suite and ability to learn additional basic software programs and platforms
Demonstrated familiarity with adult education and teaching group classes
Demonstrated knowledge of canine development, behaviour, and training methodologies
Demonstrated ability in creating and implementing training and behaviour modification plans
Clear and receptive verbal and written communication style while conversing with PADS staff, volunteers, and the public at large
Valid AB Driver’s License, at a minimum level of Class 5
Access to a personal vehicle
Ability to work a flexible schedule when required
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE
High school diploma
Third-party certifications are considered a strong asset. These include, but are not limited to: KPA-CTP, CPTD-KA, Fear Free, BC SPCA AnimalKind, IAABC-CDBC
Experience working in the non-profit sector
Previous experience training dogs (personal or professional) is required
Demonstrated capacity to work in a busy and at times, noisy work environment
Working knowledge of adult education and demonstrated skill for teaching adults
Responsibilities
Training [65%]
Teaches puppy classes
Conducts Walk & Talk assessments for every dog in cohort at 4, 8 and 13+ months of age
Provides one-on-one training sessions and support in person as well as virtually
Creates and implements training and behaviour modification plans
Conducts Adult GDBarts, as both a handler and an evaluator
Recognizes and assesses behaviours and traits required in PADS dogs
Reviews and maintains puppy reports and training information in dogs’ Salesforce records
Curriculum & Content Creation [25%]
Supports with Curriculum development and review
Identifies gaps in Training support materials and assists in developing and implementing educational content for volunteers and staff, including but not limited to: written training plan templates, video tutorials, in person clinics and courses covering common challenges
Liaises with team members and relevant departments to ensure consistency and efficacy throughout the organization
Additional Responsibilities [10%]
Attends and participates in weekly meetings with team members, keeping up to date on progress of the dogs as well as department, organization and industry trends
Updates records in databases and platforms as needed
Liaises with internal and external stakeholders and educates the public about Assistance Dogs and the legal rights of people with disabilities who are partnered with them
Assist with PADS donor, volunteer and community engagement events, as required
Pay Rate
$55,000 to $60,000 based on a 37.5 hour work week. A benefits package is available after the 3-month probation period.
Hours Per Week
37.5
How To Apply
Submit your CV and cover letter by clicking the button below.? Accommodation will be provided in all parts of the hiring process. Applicants are invited to make required accommodations known in advance.????? https://padsdogs.tfaforms.net/wf4n2zn