Certified Dog Trainer

Organization Overview:

The Potter League for Animals is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting, protecting, and advancing the well-being of Rhode Island’s companion animals. As the most comprehensive animal welfare organization in RI, we impact more than 10,000 companion animals annually. For more than 95 years, we have been committed to serving the needs of people and animals in the RI community and across New England as a 4-star Charity Navigator-rated nonprofit, ranking in the top 1% nationally.

Position Description:

Position: Contract Certified Dog Trainer
Department/Location: Behavior & Training – Potter League Dog Training Center (Rhode Island)
Classification: Independent Contractor (approximately 10–12 hours/week)
Reports To: Behavior & Training Manager

Role Overview

The Potter League for Animals is seeking a Certified Dog Trainer to join our Behavior & Training team on a contract basis. This contractor will teach group classes, facilitate canine playgroups, and provide one-on-one private consultations for dogs and their guardians, using positive, humane, evidence-based training methods.

This is a great opportunity for a trainer who values relationship-based, cooperative training and enjoys working with both people and dogs in a supportive, mission-driven environment.

Scope of Work / Primary Responsibilities

• Teach group dog training classes (e.g., foundations, manners, specialty classes) using positive reinforcement and humane, science-based methods.
• Facilitate safe, structured dog-dog playgroups, including assessment of play styles, body language, and suitability for group play.
• Conduct private consultations with clients to address basic manners, enrichment, and common behavior concerns.
• Communicate clearly and compassionately with guardians, providing homework, written follow-up, and practical coaching.
• Maintain timely and accurate class rosters, attendance, and consultation notes as requested.
• Collaborate with Potter League staff and volunteers to ensure a positive experience for clients and dogs and alignment with organizational training philosophy.
• Represent the Potter League in a professional, friendly, and inclusive manner with all staff, volunteers, and members of the public.

Qualifications

• Current dog training certification from a recognized organization (e.g., CPDT-KA, KPA-CTP, IAABC, or equivalent) required.
• Demonstrated experience teaching group classes and/or providing private consultations for dog guardians.
• Strong knowledge of canine body language, behavior, and learning theory, with a commitment to positive reinforcement and humane, low-stress handling.
• Excellent people skills: able to explain concepts clearly, coach guardians with patience, and create a welcoming environment.
• Comfortable working with a variety of dogs, including those who may be overexcited, shy, or mildly reactive, and knowing when to refer more complex cases.
• Reliable, punctual, and able to manage a class schedule that includes evenings and weekends.
• The Potter League is looking for a Certified Dog Trainer to teach group classes, facilitate playgroups and provide private consultations. 

Contract Details

Time Commitment: Approximately 10–12 hours per week, including evenings and weekends based on class and consultation schedules.
Contract Status: This is an independent contractor (1099) role, not employment with the Potter League for Animals.

Requirements:

• Registration with the State of Rhode Island as an independent contractor.
• Proof of current professional liability insurance.
• Ability to provide your own transportation to and from class and consultation locations.

Compensation: Competitive per-class and/or per-consultation rates, commensurate with experience and credentials (to be discussed during the interview process).

Physical & Environmental Considerations:

• Ability to safely handle and work around dogs of various sizes and strength.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and move for the majority of class time.
• Work is performed in a training center environment with frequent exposure to dogs, cleaning products, and moderate noise levels.

How to Express Interest

If you are interested in contracting with the Potter League for Animals as a Certified Dog Trainer, please contact:
Alisha Brzozowy, Behavior & Training Manager at ABrzozowy@potterleague.org

Please include:

• A brief statement of interest
• Your resume
• Relevant certifications
• A summary of your training philosophy and experience teaching group classes and/or private lessons
• Proof of (or plans to obtain) Rhode Island independent contractor registration and professional liability insurance