Lead Dog Trainer and Director in Lincolnshire in Louth

We are looking for a Director to lead our talented team of dog trainers in our new HQ in Lincolnshire. 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.

As we grow, we're expanding our training provision from our new headquarters in Lincolnshire and are looking for a knowledgeable and experienced dog trainer to lead, train and inspire our talented team of trainers in our new location.

• You are an experienced trainer with significant experience training Assistance Dogs or other working dogs.
• You have great knowledge in the field and enjoy working with families to help disabled handlers improve their quality of life.
• You will train carefully procured dogs to support Autistic and Neurodivergent handlers.
• You will be able to train Assistance Dogs to perform basic and advanced tasks to a high level, commensurable with the standards of ADI and ADUK, and with adherence to the highest welfare standards.
• You will teach our clients basic public access and basic commands, while also training them to perform advanced tasks.
• This includes training around public access on public transport, access to school grounds and colleges, and other skills relevant to the handlers.
• You will support, train and instruct our existing trainers in teaching dogs advanced tasks and public‐access training.
• You will supervise dog deliveries, making schedules and travel plans, ensuring that deliveries are done safely and reliably.
• You will look after the welfare, wellbeing and career development of staff.
• You will adhere strictly to Employment law, ensuring an inclusive, safe and pleasant professional environment.
• You will draft staff schedules, organise shifts, and decide leaves efficiently and fairly.
• You are experienced but willing to learn new skills and receive training in new areas.
• You are able to handle tense situations, distressed clients and conflict in the workplace with a calm demeanour and positive communication style.
• You will work with families in need of help, including basic and advanced skills training and post‐delivery support.
• You are willing to undertake deliveries of our assistance dogs to their new family, using either your own car or the charity's cars.
• You will undertake deliveries in the North of the UK, with your driving time to and from delivery paid by the Charity.
• You should be confident driving approximately 2 hours to perform deliveries.
• You will record your training sessions of dogs with videos and written notes, keeping well‐organised files on each dog and placement program.

• Excellent skills in dog training and a willingness to learn new skills and expand your knowledge.
• Excellent knowledge in the field of dog training and the ability to transmit information to others.
• 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.
• Ability to exchange dog training ideas constructively and resolve disagreements respectfully.
• Excellent standards of animal welfare.
• Can-do attitude, and a kind and positive style of communication.
• Ability to work with disabled individuals and children.
• A clean criminal record (Enhanced DBS check will be required).
• You are organised in dog training with the ability to keep written records and extensive videos of training progress.
• You will need basic computer skills, knowledge of Gmail and Google Drive.
• You should be willing to receive training on neurodiversity, autism, and relevant laws.
• In cases of complaints, you will need to support reviewers with video evidence of a dog's skills.
• You should be willing to attend public relations events and participate in social media publications.
• You should have a driving licence and be a careful, responsible driver.
• Living close to or willing to drive to our Headquarters in Lincolnshire.

• A supportive working environment, a great team and colleagues that will help you succeed.
• The opportunity to lead a successful team in achieving ever higher goals.
• 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.
• Access to a company car and mobile work phone.

To apply, please send your CV and a cover letter to: caroline.preston@autismdogs.co.uk