If you love dogs and the great outdoors, then this job is for you. One of our best job perks is that you get to bring your dog to work every day (subject to behavioural standards and approval).
Unleash the Adventure!
Groovytown Dog Lodge offers exciting off-leash group adventure hikes and overnight boarding for dogs who love a great outdoor escapade. Nestled on 33 private acres just 10 minutes west of Kingston in Odessa, Ontario, we provide daycare, door-to-door adventure hikes, and overnight boarding designed for dogs who thrive outdoors. At Groovytown, everything we do is built around Freedom. Friendship. Adventure. Learn more at Groovytown.ca.
We are hiring a Dog Pack Leader.
This is a full-time position (approximately 35–40 hours per week, including some weekends). This is an active, outdoor leadership role for someone who enjoys responsibility, independence, and working in all seasons.
We offer competitive wages and promote a healthy work-life balance. New team members are paid $23.00/hr,
Health benefits are provided after the 3rd month of employment (Health Spending Account with the option of a health allowance, RRSP contributions, or TFSA contributions).
We are looking for someone who sees value in building something steady and long-term within a small, close-knit team.
Application Deadline: Until position is filled.
Requirements (non-negotiable)
- Clean criminal record / bondable
- Minimum 5 years clean Class G driving record
- Minimum 5 years as primary insured on a vehicle (we supply a company vehicle, but you must maintain a clean insurance record)
- Certification in Canine First Aid / CPR (may be acquired after hiring)
- Physically capable of hiking several kilometres daily in all weather conditions
- Able to lift 50+ lbs comfortably and safely
How to Apply
Forward your resume to kadis@groovytown.ca, along with a cover letter finishing these three statements:
- I want to work for Groovytown Dog Lodge because…
- When I am not working, I like to…
- One time my sense of humour helped me was…
Applicants under consideration will be asked to provide work and personal references, a certified criminal background check, and a current driving record.
Job Description
Working with Groovytown Dog Lodge is a walk in the park — but sometimes it’s a challenging walk in the park. From cold or rainy days to dogs that don’t always cooperate with your plans, some days can feel like a constant uphill climb. Members of the Groovytown team meet these challenges with grit, determination, strong situational awareness, and a positive attitude, finishing the day with a sense of accomplishment. The greatest reward is the bond you build with your pack and the trust you earn from our clients.
This is not simply a dog-walking position. As a Pack Leader, you are responsible for the safety, structure, and experience of every dog in your care. You are a leader, a problem-solver, and a brand ambassador for Groovytown.
If you see yourself in this description, please read on.
Duties Include
- Direct client interaction and communication
- Pick-up and drop-off of dogs using a company vehicle (including winter and rural driving)
- Leading structured off-leash group hikes in all weather conditions
- Monitoring dog behaviour and maintaining pack safety
- Washing dirty dogs as needed
- Taking and submitting quality photos
- Cleaning and maintaining the work site and equipment
- Managing day-to-day challenges calmly and independently
Applicant Qualities
- Excellent driving skills and confidence in all seasons
- Natural leadership and calm presence
- Patience and strong observational skills
- Independent thinker with sound judgement
- Love of dogs — and really, all animals
- Comfortable getting muddy and working outdoors year-round
- Strong attention to detail
- Friendly, professional customer service skills
- Reliable, punctual, and accountable