Job Description

Are you a dog lover with a knack for training and a heart for animal welfare? Do you dream of spending your days surrounded by wagging tails, wet noses, and the occasional slobbery kiss? If so, we've got the perfect job for you!

As our

Canine Specialist

, you will be the go-to expert for all things dog. From behavior assessments to belly rubs, you'll lead our canine care program with compassion, creativity, and a whole lot of teamwork. You will coach staff and volunteers, help match pups with their forever homes, and work closely with community partners to make sure every dog gets the love and support they deserve.

This role is hands-on, fast-paced, and incredibly rewarding. You will be cleaning, feeding, and training, all while helping dogs become their best selves. Plus, you will get to flex your skills in behavior modification, develop training materials, and even represent The Humane Society at events.

If you are certified in positive reinforcement training, have a few years of experience wrangling a variety of breeds, and can handle a bit of fur and chaos with a smile--this might just be your dream job.

We are looking for Canine Specialists for both Kitchener & Stratford Centers.

What you will be doing:

Conducting canine behavior assessments and updating training materials.

Providing top-notch customer service regarding adoptions, intake, complaints, and animal behavior.

Assisting in the care and handling of various animals, ensuring they have food, clean water, and comfy housing.

Promoting positive morale, creativity, and teamwork among staff and volunteers.

Providing follow-up assistance to adopters to ensure successful matches.

Acting as a liaison between community organizations, retailers, other shelters, and us to boost adoptions and improve canine behavior.

Coaching, training, and guiding new staff and volunteers.

Maintaining professional contacts and staying current with the latest in animal welfare.

What we are looking for:

Certification in Professional Positive Reinforcement Dog Training.

Minimum of 3 years of experience working with various canine breeds.

Ability to handle sensory concentration and pay attention to detail.

Strong teamwork and collaboration skills.

Effective communication and listening skills tailored to different audiences.

Compassionate and humane treatment of animals on and off the job.

Physical stamina to manage the job's demands, including lifting large animals and standing for long periods.

Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.

Valid Class "G" Ontario driver's license.

Working At the Humane Society:

We are a growing team of animal lovers (whether they have fur, scales, shells or feathers!)

We get things done at a fast pace, and love tackling new and exciting ideas

We believe in empowering people - we want to empower you to do your job and watch you lead your team

We do best when collaborating, and it's important that everyone's voice is heard

The Perks:

Hourly wage of $21.00 - $26.00

Three weeks' annual vacation

Comprehensive Health & Dental benefits

Company RRSP Matching

Employee Assistance Program

Access to staff pet food program (discounted retail prices)

Access to staff veterinary services program

An environment always filled with adorable animals

If this role is calling your name, we look forward to hearing from you! The full job description is available at https://kwsphumane.ca/careers.

The Humane Society warmly welcomes applications from people of all backgrounds and groups. We are committed to a culture of inclusivity and collaboration that celebrates diverse perspectives and voices.

We thank all candidates for their applications; however only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $21.00-$26.00 per hour

Expected hours: No more than 40 per week

Benefits:

Dental care Employee assistance program Extended health care Life insurance On-site parking Paid time off RRSP match
Ability to commute/relocate:

Stratford, ON: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Experience:

working with various canine breeds: 3 years (required)
Licence/Certification:

Certification for Positive Reinforcement Dog Training (required)
Work Location: In person