Coaches support the Program Trainer and Program Facilitator with the implementation of the Canines Teaching Compassion (CTC) program by assisting with program activities.

Job Importance

Coaches support the Program Trainer by guiding Youth Trainers through exercises that teach dogs basic skills, good manners, and self-confidence, using positive reinforcement and force-free training methods. Coaches also create safe spaces for Youth Trainers to fully connect with the dogs, their teammate, and YOU, their coach! Relationship is at the core of what we do. Dogs and youth learn best when they trust the people teaching them. Coaches need to know how to build bridges to youth in challenging situations, most of whom have experienced significant trauma in their lives and in their relationships. In the classroom, Youth Trainers have the opportunity to build the strongest bonds with the person standing beside them and supporting them throughout the program. Coaches have a significant impact on Youth Trainers reaching their goals and program dogs being successful. Join us and help create positive experiences for our Youth Trainers and dogs!

Duties and Responsibilities

Coaches perform a wide range of duties including some or all of the following:

● Work closely with Program Trainer, and classroom volunteers to implement daily curriculum

● Assist in the safe loading/ unloading of program dogs onto youth campus and navigating through often challenging environments, such as juvenile hall facilities

● Work directly with youth to ensure the students’ mastery of dog training skills

● Work with volunteers and staff to maintain a safe working environment for the youth and dogs

● Work with volunteers and staff to provide feedback on program effectiveness

● Work with Program Trainer and to communicate the program goals and outcomes

● Work with Program Trainer to communicate any concerns and/or successes of youth and dog participants

● Participate in trainings as required

● May be asked to transport program dogs or equipment to and from classes

Qualifications

● Prefer six months’ experience working/volunteering with underserved/at-risk youth

● Prefer six months’ experience training dogs (personally or professionally) using positive reinforcement method

● Prefer six months’ experience working/volunteering with shelter dogs in some capacity

● Prefer fluency in English and a second language, especially Spanish

● Excellent understanding of dog behavior and communication

● Comfortable with public speaking

● Ability to lift 30 lbs and ability to ensure a dog of any weight (up to 130 lbs) is safe and secure on leash at all times

● Experience teaching or training people at any level desired

● Ability to lead and motivate people

● Multi-tasking skills to work with dogs and youth simultaneously

● Excellent oral and written skills

● Must have no criminal history preventing work with youth and must pass a background clearance

● Must be willing to comply with vaccination and COVID-19 testing requirements

Location

Positions available in Monterey and Santa Cruz County.

Pay, Hours, and Length of Position

Pay is $15.65-25/hour, depending on experience. Coaches are typically needed to work 3 hours a day, 2-4 days a week, for 8 weeks at a time. Some hours outside of class time are required for training and checking in with management. Evenings and weekends may be required.

To Apply

Information about UnChained is available at www.livingunchained.org. Applications will be reviewed until the positions are filled. To apply, please send cover letter and resume to: melissa@livingunchained.org or to UnChained, Attn: Personnel, PO Box 441, Soquel, CA 95073

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