The Van Sitter is responsible for the safety, well-being, and care of Dogs Inc dogs while they are housed in training vans. This position also supports trainers by ensuring the safe operation, security, and readiness of the training vehicle while dogs are being worked.
As a forward-facing representative of Dogs Inc, the Van Sitter plays an important role in engaging with the public and educating others about the organization’s mission.
RESPONSIBILITES
Dog Care and Safety
- Relieve dogs on leash prior to training routes (relief is to be bagged and disposed of properly)
- Adhere to any instructions given by trainers for individual dogs
- Adhere to all safe dog handling protocols
- Give appropriate water breaks to dogs before and after relief and as needed
- Adhere to Dogs Inc training methods of primarily positive reinforcement and use of food reward
- Observe dog behaviors watching for signs of stress, heat, illness, or injury and notify trainers immediately
- Assist with dog grooming as needed
- Attend to any dog in distress when trainers are not present
- Maintain confidentiality of our dogs in training including medical and training information
Vehicle Care and Responsibility
- Always remain in visual proximity to the training van, no more than 30 yards from the vehicle
- Ensure the vehicle remains at a safe temperature for the dogs inside. This may include opening or closing van doors and running air conditioning/heating as needed.
- Adhere to all safety protocols when entering and exiting a vehicle with or without a dog
- Enter the vehicle frequently to ensure the air conditioning/heat is functioning properly, and dogs are not in distress
- Assist trainers with backing up/parking as needed
- Assist trainers with dog safety vehicle checks as needed
- Sweep training van aisles and crates of dirt, sand, and dog hair daily
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Represent Dogs Inc professionally when interacting with members of the public
- Provides members of the public with information and education on the mission of Dogs Inc
- Participate in interdisciplinary meetings and contribute to continuous program improvement.
- Maintains a collaborative, positive attitude; accepts feedback, works independently with initiative, follows instructions, and demonstrates reliability through strong attendance.
JOB SKILL & KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED
- Basic knowledge of dog behavior and handling
- Genuine care for the well-being of dogs in training and dedication to the mission of Dogs Inc
- Good communication interpersonal skills
- Ability to handle confidential and sensitive information with discretion
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
- Physical Requirements: Ability to safely handle large breed dogs, ability to lift up to 100 lbs with assistance, walk multiple miles per day, and work indoors/outdoors in varying conditions
- Work Environment: Campus-based with field routes, kennels. Primarily outdoor work environment.
- Supervision: Reports to the Guide Dog Program Director.
QUALITIES OF SUCCESS
- Demonstrates professionalism, reliability, and accountability.
- Works steadily with minimal supervision while contributing to a team-oriented culture.
- Welcomes feedback and maintains a positive, mission-driven attitude.
- Shows initiative and flexibility in a dynamic environment.
- Maintains exceptional attendance and punctuality.
WORKING RELATIONS
This role collaborates regularly with training departments and represents Dogs Inc to the public.
COMMITMENT TO CAMPUS STANDARDS
All Dogs Inc employees share responsibility for maintaining a safe, clean, and welcoming environment. Staff are expected to assist guests and volunteers, report or resolve safety concerns, and exemplify the organization’s values in all interactions.
Resource Development & Marketing
At Dogs Inc, every team member helps tell our story. We may occasionally ask you to welcome guests, support tours, or talk about your work. These moments power our fundraising, strengthen our mission, and help sustain your pay and benefits. It’s something we share—and take pride in.
Skills Required
- Basic knowledge of dog behavior and handling
- Genuine care for dogs in training and dedication to the organization's mission
- Good communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to handle confidential and sensitive information with discretion
- Ability to safely handle large-breed dogs
- Ability to lift up to 100 pounds with assistance
- Ability to walk multiple miles per day
- Ability to work indoors and outdoors in varying conditions
- Reliable attendance, punctuality, initiative, flexibility, and ability to work with minimal supervision
What We Do
Dogs Inc trains and provides guide, service, skilled companion, and therapy dogs to people with vision loss, veterans with disabilities, and children with significant challenges, all at no cost.
