The Position - Guide Dog Mobility Instructor
The Guide Dog Mobility Instructor (GDMI) is responsible for the assessment and training of guide dogs, assessing applicants who are blind or vision impaired, matching trained guide dogs with clients and providing clients with the training to ensure safe, effective, independent mobility. The GDMI is also called upon to provide follow-up services to ensure the ongoing safety and independence of GDF clients. In addition, Instructors are responsible for completing applicant home interviews. When assigned, the GDMI is also responsible for the quality of an Apprentice’s dog and student training. They are also called on to support organizational initiatives that include public education and outreach.
Functions:
• Consistently provides an entire string of “class ready” dogs in the training cycle framework through prescribed Guide Dog Foundation techniques.
• Generates training progress reports on dogs in the string, ensuring GDF standards are met.
• Groom and perform routine training care of dogs, such as administering medicine.
• Interviews applicants and provides reports of interviews to determine applicant status as well as successful matches to “class ready” dogs.
• Instructs student handlers and graduates on the use of a guide dog through organizing class training programs, giving class lectures and student critiques and reports.
• Conducts effective graduate follow-up visits, applicant interviews, graduate aftercare and agency contacts.
• Aids and assists apprentices in all aspects of dog training and class work, as assigned.
• Represents the Foundation inside and outside the organization through speaking engagements, graduations, fundraising events, tours, and conventions in a positive, professional manner.
• Assists the Puppy Department with projects and special dog training requirements and special events as needed or as assigned by the Guide Dog Program Manager.
Requirements:
• Must have achieved qualified Guide Dog Mobility Instructor status from an IDGF accredited Organization.
• Ability to train a broad range of dog temperaments and types
• Ability to effectively teach people with various temperaments, capabilities, and experience levels
• Strong initiative and problem-solving skills when working independently.
• Excellent interpersonal, analytical and communication skills. This includes interacting with consumers and staff in an effective and professional manner.
• Able to communicate via voice mail and e-mail, effectively use word processing, spreadsheet and database applications.
• High School diploma or equivalent; some college preferred.
• Must be able to travel throughout the US and Canada to perform home training or aftercare visits.
• Must be capable of overtime, working weekends and holidays in the event that class is in session or assisting with a special event or assignment.
• Maintain a valid driver’s license.
Physical Demands: Visual Acuity
• Must be capable of maintaining a string of dogs which includes walking a minimum of 5 miles per day, including balance and retrieval training, without being under stress.
• Ability to restrain active dogs weighing up to 85 lbs.
• Ability to pick up a 70 to 85-lb. dog in an emergency.
• Ability to withstand repetitive bending, stooping, kneeling, and squatting
Visual Acuity
Near acuity and accommodation are required for the ability to see and read the dog’s reaction to the environment and distractions, ability to read forms, documentation, and computer screen
Hearing Ability
Ability to interact with dogs, trainers, student handlers and volunteers either in an informal way or when giving instruction through seminars and training exercises. Ability to hear traffic and other outside noises.
Working Conditions
The employee is subject to daily outside elements, traffic, subway, train station, and airport noise levels, as
well as inside kennel noise. The employee is exposed to cleaning and antibacterial solutions in a kennel. The
employee is also exposed to animal dander and hair in confined areas such as vans and kennels.
Compensation Info
The expected pay rate for the position is $30.64 per hour. The hourly rate actually offered will take into account
internal equity and may vary depending on the candidate's geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and
experience, among other factors.
We offer a comprehensive benefits program which includes an outstanding 403(b) plan, tuition reimbursement, health, dental, vision, and life insurance, generous paid time off, and more
How to Apply
Please send your resume and cover letter to
Employment@GuideDog.org. Please include Guide Dog Mobility Instructor in the subject line.