Playgroup Leader & Training Team Member

Looking for a job that gets you out from behind a desk and into a fun, active environment with dogs every day? You might be exactly who we’re looking for.

We’re hiring positive, energetic, and motivated team members to join our Playgroup Leader & Training Team—no prior experience required. We’ll teach you everything you need to become confident in dog behavior, body language, and safe group management.

Who We Are

We’re a top-rated, locally owned dog daycare and training facility in Madison, WI, built around positive reinforcement, safety, and strong relationships—both with dogs and their people.

Our mission is simple:
We help dogs live better lives by improving communication, behavior, and trust between dogs and humans.

We take what we do seriously—but we also have a lot of fun doing it.

What You’ll Do

As a Playgroup Leader, you’ll play a key role in keeping dogs safe, engaged, and happy throughout the day.

Daily responsibilities include:

  • Supervising and managing group play

  • Reading dog body language and preventing issues before they escalate

  • Engaging dogs in safe, structured play

  • Reinforcing good behavior and guiding improvement

  • Keeping play areas clean and safe

  • Taking dogs outside multiple times daily (yes, even in Wisconsin weather ☺)

You’ll also:

  • Greet and communicate with clients professionally

  • Write daily report cards on dog behavior and activities

  • Answer phones and educate clients on services

  • Assist with enrichment, photos, and occasional special projects

  • Support training classes (evenings/weekends)

Schedule

We offer both part-time and full-time positions.

Typical daycare shifts:

  • Morning: 6:00am – 12:30pm

  • Afternoon: 12:00pm – 6:30pm

Full-time team members must be available for both.
Training classes are held evenings and weekends, and flexibility is required.

Pay & Growth

  • Starting wage: $13/hour during training

  • Immediate raises after training completion (4–7%)

  • High performers can earn:

    • ~25% increase within 6 months

    • 40%+ increase within 1 year

  • Ongoing raises and advancement opportunities

Benefits

  • Paid holidays

  • Paid vacation

  • 401(k) with company match

  • Paid training & continuing education

  • Discounted services

  • Flexible scheduling

  • Real growth opportunities

  • And yes… a lot of dogs

What We’re Looking For

You don’t need experience—but you do need the right mindset.

  • You love dogs and people

  • You’re patient, observant, and eager to learn

  • You thrive in a fast-paced, active environment

  • You communicate clearly and professionally

  • You enjoy being part of a team

  • You’re comfortable switching tasks quickly

  • You care about doing things the right way, not the easy way

Physical Requirements

This is an active, hands-on job:

  • Standing/walking for 6+ hours

  • Bending, lifting (up to 50 lbs), and moving quickly

  • Managing multiple dogs at once

  • Working in all weather conditions

A Quick Note

Dog daycare is a learned skill—you won’t be expected to know everything on day one. We provide structured training, but once completed, you’ll be responsible for confidently managing groups and maintaining safety for both dogs and team members.

Ready to Apply?

If you’re looking for a job where you can grow, stay active, and make a real difference in dogs’ lives—we’d love to meet you.