At a Glance
- Tasks: Train assistance dogs to support autistic and neurodivergent individuals and their families.
- Company: Join a compassionate charity dedicated to making a difference in people's lives.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, travel expenses covered, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Flexible part-time hours with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while working with amazing dogs and supportive families.
- Qualifications: 1-2 years of dog training experience and a passion for helping others.
The predicted salary is between 27000 - 27000 £ per year.
Part-time: 24 hours a week
Location: Reading & London
Salary: up to £27,000 depending on relevant experience
Autism Dogs Charity supports autistic and neurodivergent people and their families through our assistance dog programmes. We provide practical, welfare-focused training and long-term aftercare, helping autistic individuals develop a bond with their partnered autism assistance dog. This bond helps to build confidence and create calmer, more manageable daily routines.
We are looking for responsible and enthusiastic trainers based close to the Reading & London area, to work with our clients in the region, but also travel, with travel time and expenses paid, to our HQs in Lincoln and Cheshire.
What you will do:
- You will train carefully procured dogs to support Autistic and Neurodivergent handlers.
- You will be assisting families with basic training and behavioural work.
- You will also train dogs to perform advanced tasks, including training around public access on public transport, school grounds, colleges and medical facilities, and training around remaining undistracted by food and other stimuli.
- We will train you on teaching dogs advanced skills pertaining to autism, such as meltdowns and shutdown interventions.
- You will work with amazing trainers and get to learn from them.
- You will get to work with amazing families in need of help, including basic and advanced skills training, helping handlers to develop confidence, and post-delivery support.
- You will undertake deliveries of our assistance dogs to the new family, using either your own car or the charity’s cars.
- You will record with videos and written notes your training sessions of dogs, and keep well-organised files on each dog and each placement program.
What are we looking for:
- Solid skills in dog training with at least 1-2 years of experience and a willingness to learn new skills.
- Willingness to work with families and support them in their assistance dog journey.
- Willingness to learn about neurodiversity and autism.
- Commitment to the values of inclusion and equal treatment of all.
- Excellent standards of animal welfare.
- Can-do attitude, and a kind and positive style of communication with others.
- A clean criminal record (Enhanced DBS check will be required).
- Organised dog training with the ability to keep written records of all training progress.
- Basic computer skills, knowledge of Gmail and Google Drive.
- Willingness to receive training on neurodiversity, autism, and relevant laws.
- Willingness to attend public relations events and participate in social media publications.
- A driving licence, and be a careful, responsible driver.
- Living close to London or Reading.
What you will get:
- A supportive working environment, a great team and colleagues that will help you succeed.
- Amazing opportunities to learn new skills, work with great trainers and develop your career.
- Support in undertaking new skills and courses, and several training opportunities.
- The chance to make a difference working with the Charity sector.
- The chance to work with amazing dogs in an environment of excellent welfare standards.
- Expenses during deliveries, travel and time spent travelling for deliveries are covered by the Charity.
- The option to join our retirement scheme.
Assistance Dog Trainer in Reading and the London area employer: Autism Dogs CIC
At Autism Dogs Charity, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer dedicated to supporting our trainers in their professional growth while making a meaningful impact in the lives of autistic and neurodivergent individuals. Our positive work culture fosters collaboration and learning, offering extensive training opportunities and a supportive team environment, all while ensuring that travel expenses are covered for your essential work across Reading and London. Join us to work with amazing dogs and families, and be part of a mission that truly makes a difference.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistance Dog Trainer in Reading and the London area
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the charity and its mission! Research Autism Dogs Charity and understand how they support autistic individuals. This will help you connect with the interviewers and show your genuine interest in their work.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your dog training skills! If you can, volunteer or shadow a trainer to get hands-on experience. This will not only boost your confidence but also give you real examples to discuss during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with other trainers and professionals in the field. Join relevant groups on social media or attend local events. You never know who might have a lead on a job or can offer valuable advice!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and making a difference.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistance Dog Trainer in Reading and the London area
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for dog training and supporting neurodivergent individuals shine through. We want to see your genuine interest in making a difference!
Be Organised:Make sure your application is well-structured and easy to read. Use clear headings and bullet points where necessary. This reflects the organisational skills we value in our trainers.
Highlight Relevant Experience:Don’t forget to mention any previous dog training experience or work with families. We’re looking for candidates who can demonstrate their skills and how they align with our mission.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates!
How to prepare for a job interview at Autism Dogs CIC
✨Know Your Stuff About Assistance Dogs
Make sure you brush up on the specific skills and tasks that assistance dogs are trained for, especially those related to autism. Familiarise yourself with the charity's mission and values, as well as the laws surrounding assistance dogs. This will show your genuine interest and commitment during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss your previous dog training experience in detail. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully trained dogs, particularly in challenging situations. Highlight any experience you have working with neurodivergent individuals or families, as this will be a key aspect of the role.
✨Demonstrate Your Communication Skills
Since you'll be working closely with families, it's crucial to showcase your ability to communicate effectively and compassionately. Think of examples where you've resolved conflicts or worked collaboratively with others. This will help demonstrate your can-do attitude and positive communication style.
✨Be Organised and Tech-Savvy
The role requires keeping detailed records of training sessions and using tools like Google Drive. Bring along examples of how you've organised training documentation in the past, and be prepared to discuss your comfort level with technology. This will reassure them that you can handle the administrative side of the job.
