Dog Trainer and Veteran–Dog Team Instructor

Dogs2DogTags Is Growing!Dogs2DogTags is a growing 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Plymouth, Wisconsin, dedicated to saving our vets one dog at a time.Our mission is to rescue, train, and place service dogs with veterans living with PTSD and anxiety. Dogs2DogTags also works with veterans who already have dogs and want to train the skills needed for a service dog or highly trained canine companion. Veterans are actively involved throughout the training process, and Dogs2DogTags provides lifetime training support at no cost to the veteran.As our organization continues to expand, we are building a team of passionate professionals committed to helping veterans and their dogs succeed through structured training, consistency, and compassionate support.To date, Dogs2DogTags has delivered more than 9,100 hours of training and successfully paired 40 veteran-dog teams — at no cost to the veterans we serve.This is more than a job. It’s an opportunity to be part of a growing organization where your work directly impacts veterans, dogs, and the future of our program every single day.Position OverviewThe Part-Time Dog Trainer serves as the primary instructor for veteran–dog team classes at Dogs2DogTags. This role is responsible for leading structured group training sessions that support veterans and their dogs as they progress toward service dog readiness.Working within an established curriculum and training framework, this position focuses on reinforcing foundational obedience skills, coaching veteran handlers, and supporting the development of each dog-handler team in a structured and positive environment.This role plays an important part in expanding access to training for the veterans we serve.Key ResponsibilitiesInstruction & Veteran TrainingLead structured group training classes for veteran–dog teams following established curriculum and program standards Provide clear, consistent instruction and coaching to veteran handlers Reinforce obedience, behavior, and public access skills in a group training environment Monitor the progress and development of dogs and handlers Maintain consistency in training standards, expectations, and instructional approach Foster a supportive, structured, and encouraging class environment Administrative SupportPrepare class materials, equipment, and training plans Track attendance, participation, and general progress of veteran–dog teams Communicate participant concerns, recommendations, or progress updates with program leadership Set up and reset training spaces and equipment before and after each class Operational SupportMaintain a clean, safe, and sanitary training environment Vacuum and sanitize training floors and entry areas following classes in accordance with program standards Qualifications & ExperienceRequired QualificationsMinimum of five (5) years of hands-on, professional dog training experience in a structured environment Professional certifications are valued; however, extensive real-world, hands-on experience is required. Online-only training certifications without practical application will not be considered. Strong understanding of canine behavior and foundational obedience training Experience working with dogs and handlers in a group setting Ability to clearly communicate training concepts to individuals with varying levels of experience Calm, confident, and consistent approach to training and instruction Ability to manage multiple dogs and handlers in a structured environment Reliable, organized, and able to follow established program guidelines Valid driver’s license with a driving record that meets insurance requirements Preferred QualificationsExperience working with service dog programs or advanced obedience training Experience working with veterans or veteran-serving organizations Experience teaching group classes or coaching environments Familiarity with structured training programs and curriculum-based instruction Additional RequirementsThis is an on-site position based in Plymouth, Wisconsin Candidates must be able to reliably commute to the training facility Flexibility to work evenings and Saturdays as part of the class schedule Physical RequirementsAbility to handle dogs of various sizes and strength levels Standing and walking for extended periods during training sessions Bending, kneeling, and crouching while working with dogs and equipment Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds as needed SchedulePart-time position based on class schedule Schedule is based around approximately three weekly classes and includes evenings and Saturdays, along with preparation time, administrative tasks, and post-session training space reset and cleaning No class is held on the fourth Saturday of each month CompensationHourly position Starting at $25 per hour based on experience To ApplyPlease submit your resume and cover letter outlining your relevant experience to: Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until the position is filled.