Lead Dog Trainer

Lead Dog Trainer (Trainer
3)

Reports To: Director of Training

Location: Paw Commons Encinitas

Compensation: $45,000 - $52,000 Base Salary + Performance Bonuses, Commissions, and Client Tips (Total On-Target Earnings: $58,000 - $80,000+) plus a Tiered Sign-On Bonus totaling $3,000.

A premier destination for dog daycare, lodging, grooming, and training, our mission is to create a safe, fun, and nurturing environment where every dog is treated as an individual and can truly thrive.

• Lead & Mentor:
  Coach and develop Trainer 1 and Trainer 2 team members, fostering our culture of continuous learning and excellence in canine communication and modern training methodologies.
• Design & Innovate:
  Create truly individualized training programs that honor our belief that every dog is unique, addressing everything from basic obedience to complex behavioral challenges.
• Drive Program Excellence:
  Uphold our uncompromising standard of quality care by overseeing daily training operations, safety protocols, and facility cleanliness.
• Elevate the Client
  
  Experience:
  
  Strengthen the bond between dogs and their owners through proactive communication, clear action plans, and celebrated milestones.
• Collaborate for Impact:
  Partner with our daycare and grooming teams as the in-house behavior expert, ensuring a consistent, safe, and enriching experience for every dog in our care.
• Champion Our Brand:
  Represent Paw Commons as a knowledgeable and enthusiastic ambassador, reflecting our passion for dog well-being in every interaction.

• A minimum of 3 years of professional dog training experience.
• Proven experience in a leadership, mentorship, or senior trainer capacity.
• Deep expertise in canine body language, learning theory, and addressing breed-specific challenges.
• A skilled communicator, able to build rapport with clients, collaborate with management, and lead your team effectively.
• An unwavering commitment to ethical animal handling and safety.
• Weekend and holiday availability is required to meet client needs.
• Bonus Points For: Professional certifications such as CPDT-KA, CDBC, CTC, or similar.

You will thrive in our active environment where you can frequently lift 50 lbs, stand for prolonged periods, and possess the visual and auditory acuity to supervise dogs at play and in training safely.

We are committed to our team with the same passion we have for our pets. When you join us, you become part of a family that values growth, well-being, and shared success.

• Compelling Compensation Package: Competitive base salary enhanced by performance-based bonuses and commissions, with a clear path to earning $58,000 - $80,000+.
• Growing Sign-On Bonus: We invest in your long-term success. Earn a tiered sign-on bonus totaling $3,000, paid out as you hit key milestones: $600 after your first 480 hours, an additional $1,000 after 1,280 hours, and a final $1,400 after 2,080 hours.
• Comprehensive Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision coverage, a 401(k) with company match, and paid time off.
• Investment in Your Growth: We are deeply committed to your professional development. Our benefits are designed to support your continuous learning at every stage of your career:
  • Paid Professional Development Time:
    Use up to one hour of paid time per day for dedicated learning—whether it's watching seminars, reading industry books, or listening to educational podcasts.
  • Exclusive Learning Opportunities:
    Attend quarterly educational seminars led by local canine experts and thought leaders.
  • Certification Sponsorship:
    As a Trainer 3, your Canine Good Citizen (CGC) evaluator certification is on us, including renewal fees.
  • Advanced Certification Assistance:
    After two years of employment, you qualify for our annual education stipend:
    • Year 2:
      Up to $500 toward your first certification.*
    • Subsequent Years:
      Up to $800 annually for additional advanced certifications.
    • Note:
      
      If not already certified, the CPDT-KA (or equivalent) is the required first certification.
• A Culture of Care: Be part of a dedicated and passionate team in a positive, respectful, and collaborative environment where you can see the direct impact of your work on the lives of dogs and their families.

Ready to help us set the standard for quality care? Apply today!

Mid-Senior level

Full-time

Management and Manufacturing

Consumer Services