Join our team

Position Overview:

We are seeking a proven leader to serve as our Regional Program Manager, responsible for the success of our city team, programs, and overall client experience across two Philadelphia studios. This role owns city operations end-to-end - setting the standard for training quality, team performance, and day-to-day execution - while leading, mentoring, and developing a high-performing team. The Regional Program Manager oversees all core services, including Day School, classes, and private lessons; ensures the welfare and progress of every dog in our care; and builds strong, collaborative partnerships with clients to support meaningful training outcomes. This role also mentors and supports staff in other locations, serving as a visible, trusted leader who balances operational excellence with people development and program growth.

Key Responsibilities

Program Development and Implementation:

Assess the specific training needs of each dog, design and develop customized training programs for dogs in our training programs, and guide a team of trainers to implement training. 

Utilize integrative and positive reinforcement-based techniques for training and behavior modification.
Teach group classes, clinics, and lessons.

Reach organization-set revenue targets monthly. 

Training Sessions:

Delegate daily training schedule between all trainers. 

Supervise training staff as appropriate.

Conduct daily training sessions with enrolled dogs.

Work on basic obedience commands, behavior modification, and specialized training based on client objectives.

Monitor and record each dog's progress and adjust training as needed.

Client Interaction:

Maintain regular communication with clients to provide updates on their dogs' progress.

Educate clients on training methods and techniques for reinforcing training at home.

Address client concerns and ensure a positive client experience.

Coach team members on client communication protocol, tone, and objectives. 

Staff Management:

Recruit, train, and supervise a team of dog trainers and support staff.

Provide guidance and mentorship to trainers to ensure consistency in training methods.

Conduct performance evaluations and handle disciplinary actions as necessary.

Facility Management:

Ensure the cleanliness, safety, and organization of the two city facilities.

Manage equipment and supplies used for training, ensuring they are in good working order.

Oversee the training environment to ensure a secure and stimulating setting for dogs.

Documentation and Reporting:

Maintain detailed records of each dog's training progress and behavior assessments.

Prepare training reports and progress summaries for clients.

Manage and report on program revenue.

Schedule
This is an on-site role, Tuesday-Saturday, with flexibility for monthly visits to other locations. 

Qualifications

Proven experience in management and leadership roles, with demonstrated capabilities to build and lead a team. 

Proven experience, 4+ years in dog training, behavior modification, and obedience training.

Consistently excellent communication and client service skills.

Understanding of dog behavior and psychology.

Hands-on experience training dogs or a certification in dog training.

Comfortable making thoughtful, independent decisions that align with company goals and values.

Knowledge of canine first aid and CPR is a plus.

Bonus Points If You
Want to be part of an organization that values innovation, transparency, and genuine care for dogs, people, and growth.
Appreciate both the business and the behavior side of dog training, you understand how program design, client success, and team development work together.
Have experience working in fast-paced, multi-channel environments where you wear multiple hats.
Naturally spot patterns and opportunities for improvement in programs, processes, and people, and enjoy creating structure that lasts.

Compensation & Benefits
Competitive salary
Health, dental, and vision
Retirement savings plan
Paid time off
Mentorship and professional development inside a growth-minded, heart-led team

How to Apply:
Send your resume + a short note sharing why you are the best fit for this role to ops@opbarks.com. 

We’re growing our Training Team in Philadelphia, and we’re looking for a next-level human to join us. This is for someone who doesn’t just “like dogs,” but is obsessed with understanding behavior, shaping confident dogs, and helping humans unlock their best life alongside their canine companions.

If you self-identify as a hard-working, self-starting, dog-loving, no-BS, humble-yet-hungry learner who can take coaching and run with it, we might be your people. If you prefer staying in your comfort zone or think dog training is just about obedience drills, we are not your people.

Let’s talk about the work.

THE ROLE: TRAINER

We need a boots-on-the-ground, hands-dirty trainer who can help dogs and their people succeed through:

Training & Behavior Development:

• Assess dogs’ behavior and training needs upon entering programs.

• Implement behavior plans that build front-brain thinkers, develop impulse control, and create calm, confident dogs.

• Train cues, leash skills, polite behaviors, and problem-solve real-world issues with direction from the Program Manager.

• Get dogs moving: leash walks, treadmill training, movement games, enrichment walks, and decompression outings.

• Help dogs transition from chaos to calm with arousal regulation and real-world pattern games.

• Lead group classes, private lessons, and client check-ins at our Old City + East Falls studios.

Client Communication & Coaching:

• Keep owners looped in with structured progress updates and guidance.

• Coach humans on the dog training lifestyle—because training doesn’t end when the leash is unclipped.

• Help clients problem-solve behavior hiccups and make sustainable shifts in how they live with their dog.

• Document progress like a pro. Track sessions, wins, and challenges, keeping everything dialed and detailed.

Enrichment & Dog Well-being:

• Ensure dogs get what they need: mental work, physical exercise, and decompression.

• Create structured enrichment sessions that help dogs work their bodies and minds.

• Monitor dog interactions to ensure safe and positive socialization experiences.

Team Player Energy:

• Communicate clearly and consistently with the Program Manager and the team.

• Embrace feedback and be open to growth—we all learn, we all evolve.

• Bring your best every day. Dogs and their humans count on you.

WHO YOU ARE:

• Experienced: 3+ years of hands-on dog training. Must have training and handling experience.

• Growth-minded: Hungry to learn, humble in the process.

• Detail-oriented: Documentation and follow-through matter.

• Physically capable: You can handle dogs of all sizes and temperaments.

• Client-savvy: You know how to coach humans with empathy and clarity.

• Committed: You’re all in on this work and understand it takes consistency.

BONUS POINTS IF YOU:

• Have certification(s) in dog training or behavior (e.g., IACP, CPDT, IAABC).

• Know dog body language and behavior inside out.

• Have experience with behavior modification cases (reactivity, fear, aggression).

• Have worked in a fast-paced, client-facing environment.

THE DETAILS:

• Full-time: 40 hours/week (weekends required).

• In-Person: Old City & East Falls Studios.

BENEFITS THAT MATTER:

• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance.

• 401(k) with Matching.

• Paid Vacation & Sick Time.

• Professional Development Opportunities.

• On-the-job Training Certification+ Growth Tracks.

Show us what you’ve got.
Submit your resume with a quick cover note about your training experience and why you want to join OpBarks. We read every application.

We’re building something bigger than obedience drills. We’re redefining what it means to live and thrive with dogs. If that excites you, we want to hear from you.

If you are looking for a training ground to immerse yourself in the world of dog training, welcome. We have some of the most unique programs on the East Coast, US that offer you a full range in becoming a better trainer, dog handler, and human being.

Mentor experiences and host clinics with masterful teachers, where you can watch and work with dogs or learn pack dynamics, pairing for socialization, or learning alongside dogs being worked in our dog training programs.

And join our list and we’ll reach out when we announce program dates.