INDEED
Animal Attendant and Trainer
PETS JOURNEY GROOMING SALON Bentleigh VIC 3204 Full‑time | Permanent Salary: $79,500 – $85,000 per year + super
Position Summary
MXH SERVICES PTY LTD is seeking an experienced and passionate Animal Attendant and Trainer to join our team in Bentleigh. This role is responsible for designing and delivering structured training programs, supporting positive behavioural outcomes for dogs, and providing practical guidance to owners.
The successful applicant will use safe, humane and reward-based training methods, maintain high standards of animal care and hygiene, and contribute to a professional and supportive environment for pets and their owners.
Key Responsibilities
● Assess dogs’ behaviour, temperament and training needs, and determine suitable training plans for each dog.
● Design and implement structured training programs to teach dogs to respond to verbal and non-verbal commands, including obedience, socialisation and handling cues.
● Manage behavioural issues such as anxiety, reactivity, aggression, excessive barking and leash pulling, and develop tailored intervention or rehabilitation plans where required.
● Train dogs to a high standard for advanced obedience, performance activities, competitions or specialised owner requirements where applicable.
● Provide clear demonstrations and practical instructions to dog owners, helping them understand safe handling, consistent reinforcement and at-home training techniques.
● Conduct individual and group training sessions, monitor each dog’s progress, and adjust training methods as required.
● Perform general animal care duties, including bathing, coat grooming, nail clipping and ear cleaning, to maintain animal comfort and wellbeing.
● Maintain high hygiene standards by inspecting, cleaning and disinfecting training areas, kennels, yards and other animal enclosures.
● Monitor dogs’ dietary, hydration, exercise and welfare needs, administer basic treatment for minor issues where appropriate, and report serious health concerns to veterinarians.
● Maintain accurate health, behaviour, training progress and client communication records.
● Supervise and mentor junior staff where required, ensuring safe animal handling and consistent training standards.
Applicant Requirements
● Minimum Certificate III in Animal Studies, Companion Animal Services, Dog Behaviour, Dog Training or another highly relevant field, or an equivalent qualification.
● At least two years of professional experience as a dog trainer, pet trainer or animal trainer.
● Demonstrated ability to design and implement effective training strategies based on recognised animal behaviour principles.
● Strong understanding of positive reinforcement and reward-based training methods.
● Ability to safely handle dogs of different breeds, sizes, temperaments and behavioural needs.
● Strong customer service focus with a genuine passion for helping owners understand and manage their dogs.
● Excellent verbal communication skills, including the ability to clearly explain training techniques to clients and guide junior staff.
● Ability to work independently with minimal supervision, use initiative and maintain accurate records.
● Strong commitment to animal welfare, workplace safety, hygiene and professional service standards.
How to Apply
Please submit your resume and a short cover letter outlining your relevant experience and qualifications to [email protected] with a copy to [email protected]
Pay: $79,000.00 – $85,000.00 per year
Work Location: In person