Director of Shelter Dog Programs
6 days ago
Reno
Job DescriptionSalary: $100,000 - $125,000 About the Organization Liberty Dogs is a premier service dog training program whose goal is to empower Veterans with disabilities to lead more independent and fulfilling lives - enhancing their well-being through the unconditional support that Liberty Service Dogs provides. Located on a 27-acre campus, it includes a training facility, dog housing, an administrative and multipurpose building, and accommodations for Veterans staying on campus to train with their Liberty Service Dogs. Position Summary The Director of Shelter Dogs leads our critical program focused on identifying, procuring, and preparing shelter dogs for lives of service. This role is essential to our mission, as you will oversee the entire journey of our shelter-sourced service dogs, from initial evaluation to their readiness for advanced service dog training. Lead a dedicated team of dog trainers, ensuring the highest standards of animal welfare, ethical training practices, and successful placement outcomes. This is an exciting opportunity for a leader who is deeply committed to both canine well-being and the transformative power of service dogs. Key Responsibilities Program Leadership & Strategy: Develop, implement, and refine strategies for the successful identification, procurement, and initial training of shelter dogs for our service dog programs. • Team Management & Development: Lead, mentor, and managing a team of shelter dog trainers. This includes hiring, performance reviews, professional development, and fostering a collaborative and positive team environment., • Shelter Procurement & Relations: Establish and maintain strong relationships with animal shelters and rescue organizations. Develop and execute a robust system for identifying, evaluating, and acquiring suitable dogs from these partners., • Training Oversight & Curriculum: Work closely with the VP of Dog programing to develop and implement initial training protocols for all shelter dogs, focusing on socialization, basic obedience, temperament assessment, enrichment and preparing them for advanced service dog tasks., • Temperament & Health Assessment: Ensure thorough and consistent temperament assessments are conducted on all potential service dog candidates. Collaborate with veterinary staff to ensure all dogs meet health requirements., • Adoption Program Management: For dogs that do not qualify as service dogs, oversee the responsible adoption of these dogs into suitable homes. This includes managing the adoption process, screening potential adopters, and providing post-adoption support., • Budget & Resource Management: Manage the budget for the shelter dog program, including resources for procurement, care, and training., • Data & Reporting: Maintain accurate records of all shelter dogs, including their progress, health, and placement outcomes. Generate reports on program effectiveness and areas for improvement., • Communication: Collaborate with trainers, handlers, and support staff to ensure a cohesive approach to each dogs health and performance and a seamless transition for dogs and alignment with organizational goals., • Advocacy & Outreach: Represent the organization at conferences, workshops, and public events to promote the value of shelter dogs in service work. Position Requirements, Skills & Qualifications • Candidates must successfully pass a background check, possess a valid drivers license with a clean driving record., • Strong organizational and multitasking abilities., • Attention to small and large details, • Proficiency in office software (Microsoft Office, PowerPoint, etc.)., • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills., • Experience in animal behavior., • Ability to handle confidential information with discretion. Minimum 5 years of previous work experience in animal shelters or training., • Experience with canine behavior, or a related field; extensive relevant experience may be considered in lieu of a degree., • Experience in dog training, with a significant focus on behavioral assessment and modification., • At least 3 years of experience in a leadership or supervisory role, managing a team of animal care professionals., • Demonstrated expertise in canine behavior, learning theory, and positive reinforcement training methods., • Proven experience in shelter dog evaluation and procurement, with an understanding of common shelter dog behaviors and needs., • Fear Free Certification or willingness to obtain., • Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously., • Excellent communication, interpersonal, and team-building skills., • Proficiency with record-keeping and data management systems., • Ability to work flexible hours, which may include some evenings and weekends, based on shelter availability and program needs., • Passion for animal welfare and the mission of service dogs. Working Conditions: This job operates in a professional office environment, dog kennels, throughout the campus, and in public settings. The noise level in the office is usually moderate, while the noise level in the dog kennels can often be loud. There will be consistent and prolonged exposure to dogs and dog allergens, with limited alternatives available. The role may require attending events and other venues in a representative or working capacity, as well as occasional travel to and from the facility for various errands. Involves using dog care equipment, training and enrichment supplies, and restraint equipment. Additionally, it requires common office equipment such as computers, printers, digital cameras, phones, and copiers. There may also be a need to use personal and company vehicles. Mental Demands: This position requires the ability to multitask, prioritize, and handle high levels of stress. Excellent organizational skills, a high level of accuracy, and attention to detail are essential. The employee must exercise good judgment and self-confidence in decision-making and meet deadlines. Exceptional attention to detail, a courteous and professional demeanor, and extensive interaction with staff and others are required. The ability to think clearly, act quickly, and utilize sound judgment in various situations is crucial, as is self-discipline and self-motivation. Physical Demands: The employee is frequently required to stand, bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, and perform a variety of physical motions with their hands, arms, shoulders, and legs to properly test, transport, and train dogs. The employee is often on their feet and may need to walk and escort visitors or volunteers around the campus, play yards, and training areas. Climbing, balancing, going up and down stairs, and using elevators are also required. The employee must regularly lift and move up to 50 pounds. This includes the ability to retrieve and distribute dog food and other supplies and to retrieve and replace objects from shelves. This job requires handling multiple Service-Dogs-in-Training every day of up to 100 pounds on and off leash. The employee will work in proximity to cleaning agents and Compensation We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.