Apprentice Dog Trainer & Handler Summit K9, LLC Rochester, NY Job Details Part-time | Full-time $15.50 – $17.00 an hour 18 hours ago Benefits Paid training On-the-job training Employee discount Professional development assistance Opportunities for advancement Flexible schedule Qualifications Pet care Kennel experience Sales Customer service High school diploma or GED Driver’s License Dog handling Animal handling Animal care Dog walking Organizational skills Cleaning 1 year Equine experience Dog training Entry level Time management Full Job Description Join Our Team: Apprentice Dog Trainer & Handler Location: Summit K9 – Rochester, NY Rate: $15.50-$17.00/hour, with extensive advancement opportunities! Are you passionate about dogs and interested in turning that passion into a professional career in dog training? Summit K9 is hiring driven, enthusiastic individuals for full and part-time Apprentice Dog Trainer & Handler positions! This is a paid apprenticeship program designed to prepare you for a future role as a professional Dog Trainer , working directly with clients and teaching classes at a high level of excellence. About the Role: As a Dog Handler and Apprentice Trainer, you’ll play an integral role in caring for and working with dogs enrolled in our Enrichment Daycare, Boarding, and Training programs. You’ll assist in training sessions, support structured social groups, and help maintain a clean and safe facility. This position is tailored for individuals who aspire to become professional dog trainers. Throughout your time in this role, you’ll receive hands-on experience, mentorship, and access to shadowing and continued education opportunities. Once you demonstrate the skills and understanding needed to meet Summit K9’s quality standards, you’ll be eligible to advance into a Dog Trainer position , working directly with clients and leading group classes. Why Join Summit K9? Structured pathway from Apprentice to Professional Dog Trainer Paid, hands-on experience with a variety of breeds, training goals, and behavioral cases One-on-one mentorship with experienced trainers Free and discounted access to workshops, classes, and enrichment daycare services A collaborative, team-oriented workplace that values your growth Opportunities for leadership roles and program development Who We’re Looking For: The ideal candidate may already have some experience working with dogs in group care or training settings—but most importantly, you’re eager to learn, take initiative, and grow within a structured, professional training program. If you’re a motivated team player with a passion for canine behavior, we want to hear from you. Key Responsibilities: Provide daily care, exercise, and enrichment for dogs in our programs Assist in training sessions and implement behavior plans under trainer supervision Support safe, structured dog-dog interactions during social sessions Maintain facility cleanliness and adhere to safety protocols Communicate professionally with teammates and clients Collaborate with trainers and staff to ensure top-quality services Support light administrative tasks, including check-ins, booking reviews, and phone/email communication What You Bring to the Team: A love for both dogs and people—client education and team collaboration are key Ideally 1+ year of experience in dog care or training (but not required for the right candidate) A strong work ethic and desire to grow into a Trainer role Openness to balanced training methods and tools Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed Physical ability to safely handle large/strong dogs and lift up to 50 lbs Detail-oriented mindset and strong problem-solving skills Interest in dog sports, behavior, or working breeds a plus Perks & Compensation: $15.50-$16.50/hour to start, based on experience Full or part-time (15-35 hrs/week), with flexible scheduling Professional development and shadowing opportunities Free or discounted access to dog training classes and workshops Advancement to Dog Trainer role for qualified candidates, including commission-based earnings in addition to hourly wage Your Future Starts Here This is more than just a job—it’s a career-building opportunity for someone who wants to be part of a high-level dog training team. If you’re committed to learning, passionate about animals, and excited to make an impact, apply today and take the first step in your dog training journey with Summit K9! Applicants are subject to a background check prior to hiring. Job Types: Full-time, Part-time Pay: $15.50 – $17.00 per hour Expected hours: 15 – 35 per week Benefits: Employee discount Flexible schedule On-the-job training Opportunities for advancement Paid training Professional development assistance Compensation Package: Commission pay Hourly pay Tips Schedule: 4 hour shift 8 hour shift Evenings as needed Evening shift Holidays Monday to Friday Morning shift Weekends as needed Application Question(s): Do you have previous experience working with dogs and/or dog training? If so, please describe. What previous experience (if any) do you have in education, coaching, and/or customer service? If so, please describe. Are there any specialized areas within the dog industry that you have previous experience or a special interest in, such as sports or working roles? If so, please describe. Do you have any professional experience outside of dog training that you believe could contribute to your success and growth as part of the Summit K9 team? What personal strengths do you believe will help you succeed as an Apprentice Trainer & Dog Handler? What do you hope to gain from this apprenticeship, and how do you see it aligning with your long-term career goals in dog training? What does professional development mean to you, and how do you approach learning new skills? We take our scheduling seriously as it impacts the care of the animals and the team dynamic. Can you speak to your ability to maintain a consistent work schedule and fulfill shifts as needed, recognizing the importance of this reliability in the role? In no more than three sentences, describe a time you received feedback you initially disagreed with, how you responded, and what you learned. Please provide two professional references who can speak to your work ethic, experience with animals, or customer service abilities. Please provide the contact details for two professional references who are familiar with your work, especially in areas relevant to this position (such as animal handling, training, or customer service). We’re looking for references who can speak to your work ethic, reliability, and experience with dogs, as well as your ability to collaborate with others and work under pressure. What is your preferred start date? When are you available to schedule an interview at Summit K9? (Please provide a range of availability) What is your time availability for this position? (Please provide specific day and time ranges) Education: High school or equivalent (Required) Ability to Commute: Rochester, NY 14624 (Required) Work Location: In person