Position Summary:
Hawaiʻi Fi-Do Service Dogs is seeking a dedicated and experienced Dog Trainer / Coordinator to lead, manage, and support the training of service dogs for individuals with mobility disabilities. This role includes recruiting and evaluating dogs, documenting progress, coordinating training efforts, and mentoring apprentice trainers. The ideal candidate is highly organized, passionate about service dogs, and experienced in positive reinforcement training (Operant Conditioning).
Key Responsibilities:
1. Dog Selection & Breeding Coordination
Collaborate with experienced breeders to facilitate whelping and early development.
Maintain breeding lines documentation, including genetic and medical records.
Ensure all dogs receive necessary medical testing (X-rays, CERF, microchipping, etc.).
2. Dog Assessment & Documentation
Conduct regular testing and evaluations for each dog.
Assess dogs to ensure they meet ADI standards.
Document each dog’s progress in detail, including:
Socialization exposures
Training hours
Skills learned
Temperament assessments
Maintain organized records for certification readiness.
3. Dog Training & Development
Train dogs using positive reinforcement techniques.
Expose dogs to real-world environments (malls, restaurants, work settings).
Prepare dogs for transition training once matched with a client (4–8 months).
Teach official command sets and document mastery.
Maintain the dog’s physical and behavioral health, including proper diet and home environment.
Coordinate temporary foster home when raisers need break or off island.
4. Trainer Oversight & Collaboration
Meet regularly with the Trainers Committee to review dog progress.
Mentor and support apprentice trainers as needed.
Lead or assist in weekly practice sessions.
Coordinate and participate in group training sessions and workshops weekly.
Lead therapeutic sessions at Child Family Services.
Work with committee to match dog with client.
Work with clients 1:1 in the home and community once a dog has been matched.
5. Administrative & Program Support
Submit progress reports to the Executive Director.
Represent Hawaiʻi Fi-Do professionally in public settings.
Maintain training equipment and service dog vests in clean condition.
Abide by trainer agreement policies, including ethics, safety, and conduct standards.
Qualifications:
Prior experience training dogs using positive reinforcement (Operant Conditioning).
Strong understanding of service dog behavior, ADI standards, and mobility-related task training.
Ability to handle confidential information and sensitive animal records.
Comfortable working independently and collaboratively.
Strong communication, documentation, and organization skills.
Willingness to transport dogs to/from training and community sessions.
Be willing and understand the limitations of working with clients with disabilities, and be willing to make accommodations when needed.
Able to perform Public Access Test on the dog and client.
Compensation & Benefits:
Reimbursement for dog-related expenses, including food, vet care, and supplies.
Access to professional development and pre-approved training conferences (with reimbursement).
Supportive and mission-driven team environment.
Physical Demands:
Ability to train dogs in crowded or public environments.
Must be able to exert a moderate to extensive amount of physical effort, including stooping, crouching, pushing, pulling, climbing stairs, and lifting up to 50 pounds.
Exposure to unpleasant odors, loud noises, and inclement weather conditions is expected in Hawaii.
Able to drive to all parts of the island to train/transport dogs.
About Us:
Hawaii Fi-Do Service Dogs helps build independence and improve the quality of life for children and adults with disabilities in Hawai‘i by providing them with quality-trained assistance dogs. We are also committed to raising community awareness about the vital role of service dogs in everyday life.
