Job Description

ECAD is a non-for-profit organization which educates Service Dogs to assist people with disabilities. Our mission is to enable people with disabilities to gain greater independence and mobility through the use of specially educated dogs.

Through the use of positive and motivational training techniques the primary responsible of an Assistant Early Puppy Instructor is to create an environment in which the dogs assigned to them are learning to be become a Service Dog.

The ideal candidate would not only have a passion for dogs, but also helping people with disabilities live their best lives.

If you have prior experience in animal care, dog training, or canine husbandry and is looking for a stable, long-term role with meaningful impact, this is the position for you!

Ideal for a retired veterinarian, experienced vet tech, or canine reproduction specialist looking for part-time work in a hands-on, rewarding role.

Our hours of operation are from 7:30am - 7:30pm, 7 days a week

POSITION DESCRIPTION

: The primary responsible of the Assistant Early Puppy Instructor is to assist the Early Puppy Instructor with reproduction management as well as to support the care, training, and development of puppies from birth through nine months. This position is physically demanding and requires commitment, reliability, and a genuine interest in animal care and training.

COMMITMENT

: This position is not seasonal. We are seeking candidates who are reliable, consistent, and interested in being part of ECAD's mission long-term.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Including but not limited to

Assist with whelping and monitoring canine pregnancies Implement early training and socialization techniques developed by ECAD and "Puppy Culture Programs" Support the health and welfare of Mom and the puppies, including feeding, grooming, and maintain a clean and sanitized whelping/kennel area in accordance with ECAD policies Maintaining records in ECAD designated database, recording training notes, evaluations, behaviors, progress reports, as well as overall health and welfare of each puppy Assist with puppy training classes and volunteer coordination Participate in play, exercise, and enrichment activities that prepare puppies for their future as Service Dog

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:

Must be

comfortable with a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed. Our hours of operation are from 7:30am - 7:30pm, 7 days a week 18+ years old Pass a criminal background check Valid Driver's License and clean driving record required

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:

High school diploma or equivalent; further education in animal science, veterinary technology, animal husbandry and/or professional dog training preferred Minimum 1 year of experience in animal care or dog training; whelping or canine reproduction experience strongly preferred Experience in teaching dog training classes a plus.

SKILLS:

Passion for helping people with disabilities Strong understanding of dog behavior and positive reinforcement training methods Dependable, detail-oriented, and committed to high standards of animal care Able to work both independently and as part of a team Strong communication skills Reliable

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The physical demands listed below are representatives of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

This position requires regular standing, walking, sitting, bending, and reaching. Employees must frequently use their hands and arms to handle dogs, equipment, and other objects. Must be able to lift and control dogs up to 70 pounds and work indoors and outdoors in all weather conditions. For safety, employees must have functional hearing and vision (with or without aids) to detect and localize sounds -- including barking -- and to maintain awareness of surroundings.
Job Type: Part-time

Pay: $16.35 - $18.00 per hour

Benefits:

Paid time off
Application Question(s):

Describe your experience with animal care, whelping, or dog training. What interests you most about this position and working with ECAD? ECAD's hours of operation are 7:30am - 7:30pm 7 days, please provide your availability. (Example: Sunday 12p -7:30, Monday 7:30a - 7:30p, Tuesday 12p-5p, Wednesday N/A, Thursday 3:30-7:30p, Friday 7:30a - 7:30p, Saturday 7:30a - 7:30p ) List you professional experience that you believe makes you the best candidate for this position.
Ability to Commute:

Winchester Center, CT 06098 (Required)
Work Location: In person