Professional Dog Trainer - Seattle

About UsThe Pet Care Club of Seattle is redefining pet care by integrating behavior, enrichment, and training into everyday life .We are not a traditional dog walking company—and we are not a traditional training company.Our model is built on the belief that real behavior change happens in real environments, through consistent, thoughtful interactions , not isolated training sessions.We are building a team of professionals who see dogs through a behavioral, emotional, and welfare-based lens —not just compliance.The RoleWe are hiring 2 professional dog trainers to help lead and expand our training and enrichment programs.This role is focused on:Private training sessionsBehavior support and modificationIntegrating training into real-life care environmentsSupporting and guiding our internal team to maintain consistencyYou will play a key role in shaping how training is delivered across the entire company.Our Training PhilosophyWe are a force-free, fear-free, science-based training company .That means:We use positive reinforcement as our primary teaching methodWe prioritize emotional safety, agency, and trustWe utilize desensitization and counterconditioning for behavior changeWe focus on reducing stress, not suppressing behaviorWe do not allow:Prong, choke, or shock collarsStartle, intimidation, or correction-based methodsDominance theory or "alpha" frameworksThis aligns with modern behavioral science and humane training standards, which emphasize reinforcing desired behaviors and avoiding fear or pain-based techniques.If you consider yourself a "balanced trainer," this will not be the right fit.What You'll Be Responsible ForConducting private, in-home and real-world training sessionsAddressing behavior challenges such as:ReactivityFear and anxietyOverstimulationLeash skills and engagementCreating customized, humane behavior modification plansCoaching clients with clarity and empathySupporting internal staff with training guidance and consistencyHelping develop and refine training programs within the companyWho We're Looking ForThis role is for someone who:Has a strong foundation in learning theory and behavior scienceUnderstands canine body language at a deep levelNaturally thinks in terms of:ThresholdsTriggersNervous system regulationBelieves training should improve a dog's emotional state , not just behaviorCan communicate in a way that builds trust with both dogs and humansWants to be part of a company that is raising the standard of carePreferred QualificationsCPDT-KA, KPA-CTP, IAABC, or Fear Free Certification (strongly preferred)Hands-on experience with behavior cases (not just basic obedience)Experience working directly with clients in private training settingsEmployment DetailsW-2 employee (not contractor)Competitive hourly pay (aligned with Seattle living wage standards)Paid training and continuing education opportunitiesOpportunity for growth into senior trainer/program development rolesWhy This Role Is DifferentMost trainers work in controlled environments.Here, you'll be working where behavior actually happens:On walksIn homesIn real-world environmentsThis allows for more meaningful, lasting behavior change —and a deeper level of impact.Powered by JazzHR