Careers

The National Disaster Search Dog Foundation (SDF) is seeking a detail-oriented individual with strong organizational and communication skills to join our team as a Kennel Maintenance Technician. This essential role ensures the cleanliness, safety and sanitization of the kennel environment, directly supporting the highest standards of care and well-being for our canines.

SDF’s mission is to strengthen emergency response in America by training rescued and recruited dogs and first responders to assist in the aftermath of disasters. If you are:

• Eager to meticulously care for our kennel facilities;
• Willing to work weekends and holidays as assigned;
• Enjoy labor-intensive hard work;
• Want to join a dynamic team making a large impact on human and animal kind, and;
• Able to work independently, as well as with a team of dedicated professionals, this may be the fit for you!

Please review the fine print below and instructions for next steps to apply. This is a full-time, onsite position based in Santa Paula, CA.

 

ROLE OVERVIEW

Kennel Maintenance Technicians play a vital role in ensuring the cleanliness, safety, and overall presentation of our Canine Pavilion facility. Under the supervision of the Kennel Manager, they are responsible for the cleaning, maintenance, and sanitation of dog kennels and adjacent areas, as well as support operations with general maintenance responsibilities. While this position does not involve direct dog handling, the role is essential to maintaining a healthy and secure environment for both dogs and staff. The primary areas of responsibility include:

• Daily cleaning and sanitization of kennel runs,
• Cleaning and maintenance of play yards, food prep area, and other surrounding walkways and areas of the facility;
• Disposal of animal waste and cleaning materials;
• Operating and maintaining cleaning equipment, including pressure washers, sprayers and scrubbers;
• Preparing dog meals, frozen Kongs, and cutting treats, for administration by our Canine Operations team;
• Contributing to operational needs and the overall upkeep of the facility, including laundry duties, washing dishes, general surface cleaning, minor repairs, reporting of maintenance issues, and washing/detailing vehicles;
• Working collaboratively with volunteers to complete necessary tasks;
• Supporting the Canine Operations team by assisting with additional tasks such as data collection, accurate record keeping, and other ancillary duties.
• Follow all sanitization and safety protocols to ensure a safe and healthy environment for staff and dogs.

 

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

SDF’s Kennel Maintenance Technician position requires a high level of physical and mental fitness in a labor-intensive, primarily outdoor working environment. Physical exertion is required, including but not limited to the following:

• The ability to lift heavy objects (up to 50 lbs.)
• The ability to walk on wet, slippery surfaces
• The ability to perform labor intensive work, primarily outdoors, in all types of weather conditions

 

THE IDEAL CANDIDATE HAS THE FOLLOWING EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS

• Passion for working with people and comfortable working in close proximity to dogs
• Takes pride in maintaining a clean and organized environment, and committed to upholding high standards of sanitization and safety
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, pay attention to details and demonstrate flexibility
• Highly collaborative individual
• A cooperative, team-oriented attitude and demonstrated ability to be a team player
• Open mindedness and willingness to learn
• Flexibility and willingness to work weekends and holidays as assigned
• Excellent communication skills (verbal and written)
• Exemplary customer service skills
• Basic technical skills
• A high level of physical fitness

APPLICANTS

If you feel you would be a good fit for this fast-moving, dynamic team environment, we would love to hear from you!

Please send your cover letter and resume electronically to SDF’s Canine Kennel Manager at [email protected] to be considered. We are seeking full-time employees with a flexible schedule and available to work weekends. We value diversity, equity, and inclusion, and we look forward to reviewing applications from all who are qualified to apply.

NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE.

Principals only. Recruiters, please don’t contact this job poster.

Please do not contact job poster about other services, products or commercial interests.

The Search Dog Foundation is an Equal Opportunity Employer looking to build a diverse team. Prospective employees will receive consideration without discrimination on the basis of race, color, religious creed, national origin, ancestry, age, sex or gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, disability, marital status, political beliefs, military service or veteran status, or any other legally protected status.

Position Title: Facilities Specialist

Organization: Search Dog Foundation

Location: This is a full-time position located in Santa Paula, California

 

Join Us in Turning Rescued Dogs into Rescuers

 

Who We Are:

The National Disaster Search Dog Foundation (SDF) is a nationally recognized nonprofit dedicated to strengthening disaster response by rescuing and training dogs to serve in disaster search operations. Our mission is supported by a passionate team committed to excellence, innovation, and compassion for both people and animals.

We are looking for an individual with strong organizational and communication skills to join our team as a Facilities Specialist. This essential role focuses on campus maintenance, construction projects, and facilities initiatives on SDF’s unique 145-acre campus. If you are skilled, compassionate, motivated to make a difference, and eager to join a team united by a shared mission, we’d love to hear from you!

 

We’re looking for someone who:

• Brings experience in building maintenance, repairs, and general trades;
• Has experience operating, maintaining, and repairing vehicles and equipment;
• Possesses strong mechanical and technical troubleshooting skills;
• Enjoys hands-on work and takes pride in tackling challenging projects;
• Is versatile, adaptable, and eager to support a wide range of maintenance needs;
• Wants to contribute to an organization transforming lives through the partnership of people and canines; and
• Thrives both independently and as part of a collaborative, mission-focused team.

If you’re ready to put your skills to work in support of a meaningful mission, this could be the opportunity for you!

Please review the details below and instructions for applying. This is a full-time, onsite position based in Santa Paula, CA, with a regularly scheduled weekend shift.

 

What You’ll Do:

Core responsibilities include:

• Site & Landscape Maintenance: Maintenance, repairs and upkeep of the 145-acre campus, encompassing fire/unpaved roads and trails, bridges, benches, picnic tables, fencing, entrance gate system, electrical repairs, landscape maintenance, and fire prevention, including weed abatement, tree trimming, monitoring and installing irrigation systems, and general landscape care.
• Vehicle and Equipment Repair and Maintenance: Facilitate the repair and maintenance of the SDF vehicle fleet, heavy equipment and machinery, and other maintenance and operating equipment with general vehicle maintenance and cleaning as well as specialty repairs and maintenance including but not limited to: Hydraulic hose repair and replacement, oil and fluid changes, the use of an itemized oil storage and containment system, and other tasks as assigned.
• Building Maintenance: Perform general and routine repair and maintenance of the multiple buildings onsite, involving appliances, electrical, plumbing, painting, communications, HVAC systems, and general cleaning and repairs (including washing windows, cleaning & replacing filters, troubleshooting systems, etc.). Provide occasional support with the cleaning, sanitization, and maintenance of kennel runs and other canine care areas to help ensure a safe and healthy environment for dogs and staff.
• Water Treatment System & Well Maintenance: Under the supervision of the facilities supervisor, assist in troubleshooting and maintaining the water well and RO system, including maintenance of logs, testing of turbidity, chlorine content, filters, mineral contents and adjusting levels as needed under supervision, checking and draining clarification tanks and brine field, and transporting water with a manual transmission water truck.
• Training Site Assistance: In collaboration with SDF’s Canine Operations and Search Team Operations Teams and under the supervision of the facilities supervisor, maintain, reconfigure, and construct canine training props and agility equipment, coordinate delivery and staging of material, etc.
• General Duties: Assist the Facilities Team and subcontractors on the peculiarities of the site, assist volunteers facilitating maintenance and facility initiatives, clean and prepare site for SDF events and tours as needed, and other duties and projects as assigned.

 

Who You Are:

We’re seeking a team member who is excited to bring your experience to a mission-driven organization. You will:

• Embrace and promote SDF’s values: collaboration, innovation, compassion, grit, and integrity.
• Create and nurture a professional, respectful, and constructive work environment.
• Demonstrate sound judgement, ethical behavior, and accountability.
• Communicate clearly and encourage open, collaborative communication.
• Maintain a safe and healthy work environment.
• Seek opportunities to positively impact organizational culture.

 

Qualifications & Experience

• Ability to thrive in a physically demanding, primarily outdoor work environment. Physical requirements include:
  • Lifting and carrying objects weighing up to 50 pounds
  • Working comfortably at heights
  • Performing labor-intensive tasks in varying weather conditions
• Hands-on experience in a variety of trades, including plumbing, electrical, carpentry, painting, landscaping, and general facility maintenance and repair
• Strong mechanical and technical aptitude, with the ability to troubleshoot, diagnose, and resolve maintenance and equipment issues
• Ability to safely operate and maintain vehicles, tools, and construction equipment, including both manual and automatic transmissions, on- and off-road
• Strong organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities, maintain attention to detail, and adapt to changing needs
• Collaborative, team-oriented approach with the ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team
• Commitment to continuous learning, professional development, and acquiring new skills
• Positive attitude, flexibility, and willingness to assist wherever needed
• Availability to work regularly scheduled weekend shifts, including holidays as needed
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Excellent customer service skills when interacting with coworkers, volunteers, vendors, and visitors
• Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record

Where and When You’ll Work

This full-time role is based at SDF’s National Training Center in Santa Paula, California. The regular schedule for this role, once trained and onboarded, is Thursday through Monday, with weekends serving as a standard part of the workweek.

 

Compensation & Benefits

SDF offers a competitive, experience-based wage that is commensurate with demonstrated skills and qualifications. Full-time employees are eligible for our benefits package, which includes employer-supported medical coverage with multiple plan options, a 401(k)-retirement plan with an employer contribution match, a flexible spending account, paid time off and paid holidays, long-term disability and life insurance, an employee assistance program, and access to additional programs and discounts. Specific eligibility timelines and details are provided during onboarding and in plan documents.

Starting range: $20.00 – $28.00/hour

 

How to Apply

If you’re ready to make a difference and join our team, we’d love to hear from you. Please email your cover letter and resume to our Facilities Manager, Matthew Meadows, at [email protected]. No phone calls, please.

 

Equal Opportunity

The Search Dog Foundation is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religious creed, national origin, ancestry, age, sex or gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, disability, marital status, military service or veteran status, or any other legally protected status.

 

Learn More

Explore our mission and programs at https://www.searchdogfoundation.org.

CANINE BEHAVIOR AND TRAINING TEAM 

The National Disaster Search Dog Foundation (SDF) is seeking dynamic team players with a detail-oriented focus, self-initiation, and a passion for working with creative people and canines to join our Canine Behavior and Training Team. Individuals should fully embrace SDF’s mission and be able to work independently, as well as with our entire team. This is a full-time onsite position based in Santa Paula, CA and we seek to build a diverse team.

The National Disaster Search Dog Foundation (SDF) recruits high-drive dogs from shelters and rescues, channels that drive through training and enrichment, and finds each dog a successful working career or family home. Our Lifetime Care Credo that once rescued, a dog that enters our program will never need to be rescued again is at the heart of our program.

SDF is looking for experienced canine professionals that share our team’s passion for working with high-drive dogs and that want to join us in celebration of the human-canine bond. SDF’s Canine Behavior and Training Team, including our Canine Kennel Technicians, Canine Training Assistants, and Canine Trainers, work together each day to achieve the goals for all canines in our program.

ROLE OVERVIEW

The primary role of our Canine Behavior and Training Team members (Canine Training Assistants and Canine Trainers), is to positively contribute to the forward advancement of the care and training progress of the dogs in our program. Specific duties are assigned based upon the skill and experience of the individual team member and may include the following:

• Meet all the basic care and medical needs of our dogs (daily feeding, grooming, administering medications, etc.) and execute our comprehensive canine athletic conditioning program.
• Implementation of canine training plans to include basic to advanced level training of skills in a variety of areas.
• Assist in the behavioral and performance screening of dogs.
• Digital data collection/recordkeeping of all activities related to our dogs.
• Provide support and mentorship to Canine Operations Team members and canine handlers.
• Work courteously and cooperatively with staff, volunteers, and handlers. Treat people and animals with respect; contribute to effective teamwork; foster public relations beneficial to SDF and its programs; promote a humane and caring attitude toward all animals and treat canines humanely and with compassion at all times regardless of circumstances, including those that are sick, injured, fearful or aggressive.
• Other tasks and duties as assigned.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

SDF’s Canine Behavior and Training Team positions require a high level of physical and mental fitness. Physical exertion will be required, including but not limited to the following:

• The ability to lift heavy objects (up to 50 lbs.).
• The ability to handle large, energetic, untrained canines in a rigorous, fast-paced environment.
• The ability to climb unstable surfaces and negotiate concrete, wood, and green waste rubble piles.
• The ability to be comfortable as a mock “victim”, buried in rubble and hidden in training props.

 

THE IDEAL CANDIDATE HAS THE FOLLOWING EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS

We are currently recruiting for several positions and welcome applicants of all skill levels. Position and salary ranges are commensurate with the experience and skill level of the individual. We are currently looking for individuals with the following minimum requirements:

• Experience working with dogs in a professional environment.
• The ability to work in a demanding and emotionally challenging environment.
• Ability to work with dogs in all states of health, and of unknown dispositions in a safe, effective and humane manner. Ability to embrace the philosophy and science that all dogs are individuals.
• Flexibility in scheduling and workflow.
• Ability to problem-solve, innovate, and work with minimal supervision.
• Ability to help fulfill the mission of SDF.
• Must have a genuine passion for the work, programs, and mission of SDF.
• Flexibility and willingness to work evenings, weekends, and holidays if needed.
• Strong interest in life-long learning and skill development.
• A cooperative, team-oriented attitude.
• Open-mindedness and willingness to learn.
• Excellent communication skills (verbal and written), including exemplary customer service skills.
• Valid driver’s license.

APPLICANTS

If you feel you would be a good fit for this fast-moving, dynamic team environment, we would love to hear from you! Please send your cover letter and resume electronically to the Senior Director of Canine Operations, Tracy Darling, at [email protected] to be considered for this position. We value diversity, equity, and inclusion, and we look forward to reviewing applications from all who are qualified to apply.

Who We Are

The National Disaster Search Dog Foundation (SDF) is a nationally recognized nonprofit dedicated to strengthening disaster response by rescuing and training dogs to serve in disaster search operations. Since 1996, our mission has paired compassion with action – providing professionally trained canines and ongoing support at no cost to fire departments and task forces nationwide to ensure communities have access to dependable, highly-skilled canine disaster search teams when disaster strikes. For dogs who do not complete disaster search training, we remain committed to their success by placing them in alternative careers or adoptive homes where they can thrive. Once rescued, these dogs will never need to be rescued again—our mission is to guide each one toward a life of purpose and fulfillment.

Today, over 100 SDF-trained canine disaster search teams stand ready across North America, bringing hope where it’s needed most.

Our mission is supported by a passionate team committed to excellence, innovation, and compassion for both people and animals. As we continue to grow, SDF is seeking a mission-driven, rising finance leader to help guide the organization’s future.

So, if you are talented, compassionate, motivated to make a difference, and eager to join a team of like-minded individuals, we want to talk to you!

 

What You’ll Do

This is a highly hands-on role designed for experienced working dog professionals who are passionate about foundational development and operational readiness.

 

At the heart of our training philosophy is the belief that strong, dependable partnerships with high-drive dogs are built on play, trust, and mutual respect. We emphasize joyful, authentic interactions that foster true collaboration—resulting in reliable performance not only in disaster search but across all facets of human-canine interaction. This approach deepens the connection between dog and handler and supports a healthy, sustainable path to shared success.

 

Core Responsibilities

• Develop and reinforce essential behaviors including:
  • Crate manners
  • Leash walking
  • Emotional regulation
  • Play and engagement
• Build and refine occupational foundations such as:
  • Motivation and drive
  • Agility and confidence
  • Specialized on- and off-leash behaviors critical for working dog performance
• Execute individualized training plans with precision, adapting criteria based on close behavioral observation.
• Maintain clear, detailed documentation of training progress and behavioral trends.
• Take full ownership of your dogs’ development, ensuring consistency, accountability, and high standards in every session.
• Collaborate with a mission-driven team dedicated to producing reliable, resilient canine partners.
• Contribute to a positive, evidence-informed training culture that values:
  • Joyful, authentic handler-dog interaction
  • Operational dependability
  • Continuous learning and professional growth
• Align daily work with the life-saving mission of preparing dogs for real-world deployment in search and rescue.

 

Who You Are

We’re seeking a skilled canine professional who is motivated by purpose and eager to be part of a life-saving mission to join our team.

 

Key Responsibilities & Qualifications

• At least 6 years of professional experience working with dogs, ideally high-drive dogs.
• Deep understanding of canine communication and behavior shaping through play and toy reward mechanics.
• Ability to work compassionately and effectively with dogs of varying health and temperament backgrounds.
• Strong growth mindset: curious, coachable, receptive to feedback, and committed to continuous improvement.
• Thrive in an outdoor, all-weather, fast-paced environment.
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and accountable in daily operations.

 

Physical & Demonstrative Requirements

• Capable of lifting up to 50 pounds and handling large, energetic dogs.
• Comfortable navigating unstable surfaces (e.g., concrete, wood rubble piles).
• Willing to act as a mock “victim” during training scenarios, including hiding in props to support canine search and alert training.

 

Work Environment & Culture

• Based at SDF’s National Training Center in Santa Paula, CA.
• Work rhythm follows the needs of the dogs and training plans.
• Training occurs in all conditions, with a focus on safety, thoughtful progression, and high standards.
• Team culture values:
  • Initiative and proactive problem-solving.
  • Clear communication and collaboration.
  • The discipline of foundational work repeated with excellence.
  • A shared commitment to the mission of saving lives through the power of rescue.

 

Where You’ll Work

This full-time, onsite role is based at SDF’s National Training Center in Santa Paula, California.

 

Compensation & Benefits

SDF offers competitive, experience‑based hourly compensation, commensurate with experience and demonstrated skill. Full‑time employees are eligible for our benefits package, which includes employer‑supported medical coverage with multiple plan options, a 401(k) retirement plan with an employer contribution match, flexible spending account, paid time off and paid holidays, long‑term disability and life insurance, an employee assistance program, and access to additional programs and discounts. Specific eligibility timelines and details are provided during onboarding and in plan documents.

 

How to Apply

If you’re ready to change lives through the power of the human‑canine bond, we’d love to hear from you. Please email your cover letter and resume to Tracy Darling at [email protected]. Please include “Canine Trainer – [Your Name]” in the subject line. No phone calls, please.

 

Equal Opportunity

The Search Dog Foundation is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religious creed, national origin, ancestry, age, sex or gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, disability, marital status, military service or veteran status, or any other legally protected status.