Paws PTSD Program Instructor

Description

Job Title: Paws for PTSD Program Instructor

Job Status: Full Time, Exempt

Reports to: National Training Manager

Location: Atlanta, GA

Are you passionate about making a positive impact on people’s lives and have a soft spot for dogs? Look no further than Dogs for Better Lives (DBL)! As a nationally recognized nonprofit organization, DBL is dedicated to professionally training dogs to help people with disabilities and enhance their lives. Our mission is to create a lifelong commitment to all dogs rescued or bred and all people served, which is supported by our nationwide donor base.

DBL is nationally recognized by Guidestar, Great Nonprofits, Charity Navigator (9 years with a continues four-star rating), Best of the Upper Cape 2022, Oregon Business’ 2021 “Oregon Top 100 Best Nonprofits to Work For,” and we are accredited by Assistance Dogs International (ADI). At DBL, we believe in empowering our employees to achieve our goals and serve our clients, dogs, and donors while embracing a work-life balance.

As we continue to expand our organization and build upon our past successes, we provide ample opportunities for growth and continued learning. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, and we welcome employees from diverse backgrounds who share our values. Join us and be part of an employee-driven team that strives to serve more clients while upholding our unwavering commitment to our clients, dogs, and donors.

The position is full time/exempt. We believe in taking good care of our employees and offer an excellent employer-paid benefits package which includes the following: medical, dental, vision, STD/LTD, basic life insurance, generous time off (flex/sick days, vacation, 10 paid holidays) while promoting mental health with our EAP plan.

The Paws for PTSD Program Manager oversees the Shelter to Service Program specifically designed for veterans with PTSD. This role includes identifying and evaluating shelter dogs for service dog training, managing relationships with partner shelters, recruiting and supporting foster volunteers, and ensuring dogs meet the standards required to serve veterans. The Program Manager will also collaborate with veteran support organizations, mental health professionals, and internal staff to ensure successful placements and long‑term outcomes for both dogs and veterans.

• Lead the Paws for PTSD Shelter to Service Program to meet or exceed goals.
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to refine program strategy and outcomes.
• Ensure all dogs meet Assistance Dogs International (ADI) standards and are suitable for veterans with PTSD.

• Work with veteran service organizations to identify eligible veteran clients.
• Coordinate veteran intake, matching, and placement processes in collaboration with mental health professionals.
• Provide ongoing support and follow‑up for veterans post‑placement to ensure successful integration.

• Partner with shelters to identify suitable dogs and manage their transition into foster care.
• Recruit, train, and support foster volunteers within a defined geographic area.
• Develop training materials and engagement opportunities tailored to foster volunteers working with PTSD service dog candidates.

• Train shelter dogs using positive reinforcement and operant conditioning techniques.
• Maintain detailed records of dog progress, health, and behavior.
• Conduct behavioral evaluations and pre‑placement testing to ensure readiness.

• Promote the program through community events, veteran‑focused outreach, and shelter partnerships.
• Represent the program at public speaking engagements and media opportunities.
• Build awareness and support for the mission of Paws for PTSD.

• Certified Assistance Dog Trainer preferred, with at least 3 years of experience.
• Minimum of 3 years working with and training dogs of various breeds.
• Experience working with veterans or trauma‑informed care is highly desirable.
• Strong organizational, communication, and public speaking skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office 365.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• American Sign Language proficiency is a plus.

• Must pass a criminal background check.
• Must be at least 25 years old with a valid driver’s license and excellent driving record.
• Must meet hearing and physical requirements necessary for safe and effective dog training.
• Occasional travel, evenings, and weekends required.

Note:
This is a job description, not an employment contract. This job description does not state or imply these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job‑related duties required by management. DBL is an equal opportunity employer.