Job description

Shimmy Downs Kelpies | Busselton, South West WA

Salary: $82,000–$85,000 per annum + superannuation

About Us

Shimmy Downs Kelpies is a family-owned and operated working dog training facility and registered Kelpie breeding business located near Busselton in Western Australia's beautiful South West.

We specialise in working dog training for all herding breeds, working with a wide variety of dogs and owners, from family pets requiring an appropriate outlet for their natural instincts through to working farm dogs developing practical livestock skills.

Our training approach focuses on developing confident, capable working dogs while also educating and supporting their owners.

As our business continues to grow, we're looking for a passionate and capable Working Dog Trainer to join our team.

About the Role

This is a hands-on, full-time position involving working dog training, livestock handling, client education and general animal care.

Responsibilities will include:

Training working dogs using sheep and other livestock.

Assessing individual dogs and adapting training to suit their age, experience, temperament and ability.

Conducting private 1:1 training sessions with dogs and their owners.

Instructing small group training classes.

Working with dogs participating in our Board & Train program.

Providing clear, practical guidance and feedback to clients.

Assisting with the daily care and management of dogs and livestock.

Maintaining training facilities, equipment and animal areas.

Assisting with general farm and kennel duties as required.

About You

We're looking for someone who has:

Practical experience training and handling working dogs, ideally herding breeds.

Confidence and experience working around sheep and other livestock.

A sound understanding of dog behaviour, training principles and animal handling.

Strong communication skills and the ability to work with a variety of clients.

The ability to work both independently and as part of a small team.

A willingness to learn, adapt and develop within the Shimmy Downs Kelpies training approach.

A genuine passion for working dogs, livestock and helping owners develop their dogs' abilities.

Previous experience delivering training to clients would be highly regarded.

We understand that different trainers bring different backgrounds and approaches. While previous experience is important, we're also looking for someone who is open to learning and growing with our business.

What We Offer

The opportunity to work with a wide variety of working dogs and clients.

Hands-on training and professional development alongside our experienced team.

A supportive, family-operated working environment.

The opportunity to further develop your skills in working dog training and client education.

A full-time role in the beautiful South West region of Western Australia.

Location and Relocation

This position is based at our training facility near Busselton, Western Australia.

Applicants from outside the region are welcome to apply; however, relocation would be required. Accommodation is not provided as part of the position.

How to Apply

If you're passionate about working dogs and believe you could be a great addition to our team, we'd love to hear from you.

Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your relevant working dog training experience, livestock handling experience and why you're interested in joining Shimmy Downs Kelpies.

Shortlisted applicants may be invited to participate in a practical working dog and livestock handling session as part of the recruitment process.

Contact:

Shimmy Downs Kelpies Working Dog Training for All Herding Breeds