Training Director, Dog Training
Are you a proven training leader who knows how to develop high-performing trainers, drive revenue through service excellence, and deliver safe, effective results for dogs and their owners?
We are looking for a full-time Training Director to lead all canine training operations, elevate program quality, develop a strong team of trainers, and create an exceptional client experience. This is not just a hands-on training role. This is a leadership position responsible for training performance, team development, operational oversight, and business growth.
Who We Are
NVA Pet Resorts is part of National Veterinary Associates (NVA) — the largest private owner of veterinary hospitals and pet resorts in North America, with 1,300+ locations. We compete in an $8B+ and rapidly growing industry as pet parents continue to invest in premium care for their family members.
Our mission is simple:
Create safe, fun, and loving environments for pets while providing exceptional experiences for our clients and team members.
We are looking for a leader who can combine advanced canine behavior expertise with business ownership, team leadership, and community presence to continue building a trusted and high-performing training program.
The Role: Training Leader and Business Driver
As Training Director, you are the leader of the training department.
You are responsible for:
- Overseeing all canine training operations
- Maintaining and improving structured training programs
- Leading, developing, and coaching a team of trainers
- Driving training revenue and service growth
- Ensuring a high standard of client communication and satisfaction
- Upholding safety, animal welfare, and operational standards
- You own the quality of the training experience and the strategy that helps the department grow.
What You’ll Lead
Training Programs and Behavioral Outcomes
- Maintain, optimize, and elevate the execution of training programs, including obedience, socialization, and behavior modification
- Support the development of customized training plans for more complex behavioral issues, including aggression and anxiety
- Audit the training team on delivery quality and client communication, including intakes, outtakes, and follow-up consultations
- Evaluate training program effectiveness and adjust strategies based on outcomes and client feedback
- Ensure training methodologies align with company standards around positive reinforcement, force-free practices, and other approved training methods
Sales and Revenue Growth
- Support revenue goals through program development, upselling training services, and client retention
- Develop trainers’ client communication skills, sales mindset, and business-building practices
- Collaborate with front-of-house teams so they can confidently educate clients on training offerings
- Identify opportunities to expand services, packages, and specialty training programs
- Develop and implement new training offerings to grow the department’s service portfolio
- Oversee outreach and business-building practices through reporting and client follow-up
- Hold the team accountable for time management, scheduling, and calendar organization
Team Development
- Recruit, hire, onboard, and train both junior and senior trainers
- Provide ongoing coaching, mentorship, and performance evaluations
- Create weekly schedules and ensure proper staffing and service delivery
- Validate timekeeping and support accurate reporting related to commissions, tips, or other incentive structures if applicable
- Address employee concerns, resolve conflict, and foster a positive team culture
- Build a department that is accountable, professional, and focused on continuous improvement
Client Experience
- Oversee trainer consultations to understand client goals and behavioral concerns
- Ensure training plans, progress updates, and recommendations are communicated clearly and professionally
- Promote pet parent education around reinforcement techniques and long-term behavior management
- Build trust with clients through consistency, professionalism, and strong service execution
- Maintain a high level of client satisfaction throughout the training journey
Safety and Operational Excellence
- Enforce all safety protocols for staff and dogs within the training department
- Coach the team on dog signaling, body language, handling procedures, and socialization best practices
- Maintain compliance with company policies related to dog health and safety
- Monitor facility conditions to ensure a clean, safe, and organized environment
- Support operational excellence through strong oversight, professionalism, and attention to detail
Marketing and Community Engagement
- Support marketing initiatives through events, workshops, and community outreach
- Represent the organization as a subject matter expert in canine behavior and training
- Build and strengthen partnerships with local pet communities and organizations
- Help expand awareness of training services and reinforce the brand in the local market
What We’re Looking For
- We are seeking a leader who is:
- Deeply knowledgeable in canine behavior and learning theory
- Skilled in trainer development, coaching, and performance management
- Sales-minded and capable of growing service revenue
- Strong in client communication and relationship building
- Highly accountable, organized, and professional
- Passionate about animal welfare and safety
- Comfortable influencing change and leading department growth
- Visible, hands-on, and comfortable operating within the day-to-day resort environment
Required Experience
- High school diploma or equivalent required
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent education and experience preferred
- Minimum 3-5 years of management experience, including profit and loss responsibility
- Minimum 7+ years of professional dog training experience, including advanced behavioral modification
- Strong financial and operational management ability
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and relevant scheduling, point of sale, or pet care management systems
- Strong client-facing skills and comfort operating within a resort environment
Preferred Certifications
- CPDT-KA or equivalent recognized certification
- Additional credentials in behavior or advanced training techniques
You Must Be Able To
- Work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed
- Move throughout the resort for extended periods of time
- Lift and move dogs, equipment, or supplies within the physical requirements of the role
- Bend, stoop, reach, and work actively in a fast-paced, loud environment
- Maintain a professional appearance and demeanor with clients, team members, and leadership
- Perform basic math and understand finances and cost management
- Hold a valid driver’s license if required by the role
- Transport a pet in case of emergency if required by the role
Why You’ll Love Working Here
- Competitive compensation: $25.00 - $29.00 per hour
- Medical, dental, and vision benefits
- 401(k) with employer match
- Career growth opportunities within a growing company
- A workplace centered around pet care, safety, service excellence, and team development
Equal Opportunity Employer
NVA is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace.
Work schedule
- Weekend availability
- Monday to Friday
- Day shift
- Night shift
- Holidays
- 8 hour shift
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Referral program
- Employee discount
- Mileage reimbursement