About us
Autism Assistance Dogs Charity supports autistic children and adults through individually trained assistance dogs and ongoing family support.
We are accredited by the National Autistic Society and are a candidate member of Assistance Dogs International. Our multidisciplinary team includes dog trainers, behaviour professionals and clinicians.
The role
We are looking for an experienced freelance dog trainer to provide training and family support in and around Sheffield.
Assignments are offered according to client and programme needs. There are no guaranteed or minimum hours, and you may accept or decline individual assignments based on your availability.
The majority of work will take place in clients’ homes and local community settings.
Responsibilities
- Deliver reward-based obedience, socialisation and public-access training.
- Support the development of assistance-dog skills based on each handler’s individual needs.
- Deliver practical training sessions with autistic handlers and their families.
- Teach handlers how to communicate with, care for and work safely with their assistance dog.
- Support dogs and families during introductions, placements and settling-in periods.
- Complete clear training notes and provide progress updates.
- Follow the charity’s training, safeguarding and animal-welfare procedures.
Essential requirements
- Practical experience of training dogs using positive, reward-based methods.
- Experience of working directly with dog owners, handlers or families.
- A strong understanding of canine behaviour, welfare and body language.
- Good communication, organisation and record-keeping skills.
- A valid UK driving licence and access to a suitable vehicle.
- Business-use motor insurance for travel undertaken as part of assignments.
- Willingness to travel to clients within the advertised area.
- Eligibility to work on a self-employed basis in the UK.
The successful applicant will be required to complete safeguarding training and obtain a satisfactory Enhanced DBS check. We will explain and support the required checking process.
Experience of assistance-dog or service-dog training is desirable but not essential.
Fees and travel payments
- Dog-training assignments: £50 per hour.
- Driving time during assignments: £15 per hour. This fee is separate from payment for the actual dog-training work.
- Mileage: 40p per mile.
- Payment: Invoices are normally paid within seven days of receipt, subject to the agreed terms.
This is a self-employed contractor opportunity. Contractors are responsible for managing their own tax, National Insurance and business records.
Occasional travel to our hubs in Congleton, Cheshire, or Lincoln, Lincolnshire, may be offered. Any additional travel will be discussed and agreed in advance.
How to apply
Please apply through Indeed with:
- Your current CV.
- A short supporting statement describing your dog-training experience.
- Details of your general availability and the area you can cover.
Autism Assistance Dogs Charity is committed to safeguarding and providing an inclusive environment. We welcome applications from suitably qualified people from all backgrounds.
Pay: £50.00 per hour
Work Location: In person
