Employment

Interested in joining our team to help animals in our community?

Employment at the Rhode Island SPCA provides a wide variety of opportunities for passionate individuals to help make a difference in the lives of animals. The team at the Rhode Island SPCA works hard on behalf of all the animals entrusted to our care and is focused on creating a more humane community for all of us.

Summer Camp Instructor: RISPCA Humane Education Programs

Job Title: Summer Camp Instructor
Hours: Monday-Friday 8:00am-4:00pm
Start Date: 6/27/2026
End Date: 8/21/2026

Work as an assistant camp instructor for the RISPCA’s 8-week long (including a day of staff training) summer camp focused on educating kids ages 8-11 on pet responsibility, empathy, animal behavior, and animal related careers.

For more information and how to apply click here.

Certified Dog Trainer

Love helping dogs and their people thrive?

The Rhode Island SPCA is hiring a Certified Dog Trainer (CPDT or equivalent) to lead group classes, private lessons, and canine playgroups. We are seeking a trainer experienced in positive reinforcement, low-stress handling, obedience training, behavior modification, and canine enrichment, committed to humane, science-based training methods that help dogs and their guardians thrive.

About the Role:
As a contract trainer with the Rhode Island SPCA, you will:

  • Teach dog guardians practical, reward-based training skills

  • Facilitate safe and structured canine playgroups

  • Provide private consultations to address common training and behavior challenges

  • This role supports our mission to help dogs succeed in loving homes and communities

Key Responsibilities:

  • Lead group obedience and manners classes using positive reinforcement

  • Facilitate safe canine playgroups, monitoring body language and interactions

  • Provide private consultations for training and behavior concerns

  • Coach and educate pet guardians with practical, science-based guidance

  • Maintain class and consultation records

  • Represent the Rhode Island SPCA professionally and positively

Qualifications:

  • Certified by a recognized organization (CPDT-KA, KPA-CTP, IAABC, or equivalent)

  • Experience teaching group classes and private lessons

  • Knowledge of canine behavior, learning theory, and enrichment activities

  • Commitment to positive reinforcement and low-stress handling

  • Strong communication and coaching skills with pet guardians

  • Comfortable working with dogs of varying temperaments

  • Availability for evenings and weekends

Contract Details:

  • Approx. 10–12 hours per week

  • Independent contractor (1099)

  • Competitive per-class and per-consultation compensation

Requirements:

  • Rhode Island independent contractor registration

  • Professional liability insurance

  • Reliable transportation

How to Apply:

Submit your resume, certifications, and a brief summary of your training philosophy and experience to the Canine Behavior Specialist at hugh.tucker@rispca.org