Guide Dog Mobility Instructor

About the role

The Guide Dog Mobility Instructor at Leader Dogs for the Blind is responsible for training guide dogs and instructing visually impaired individuals to travel effectively with these dogs. This role is part of a comprehensive service that provides free guide dog services and orientation and mobility training.

Responsibilities

• Select appropriate locations and objectives for training Leader Dogs.
• Evaluate Leader Dogs' progress towards meeting Leader Dog standards and objectives.
• Create improvement plans and recommend career changes for dogs not meeting standards.
• Assist in planning and scheduling client instruction sessions.
• Assess orientation and mobility needs and capabilities of clients.
• Write SMART objectives for clients to achieve safe and independent guide dog travel.
• Train clients using various instructional techniques tailored to their needs.
• Evaluate client progress and modify training plans accordingly.
• Provide basic instruction in Orientation and Mobility techniques and GPS.
• Maintain proper care, health, and maintenance of training dogs.
• Keep detailed records according to established procedures.
• Coordinate visits for graduates and applicants.
• Conduct effective follow-up visits and interviews.
• Provide field services with accurate reports.
• Participate in admissions meetings to evaluate new and reapplying applicants.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Minimum of one year of related experience.
• Successfully completed an IGDF recognized Guide Dog Mobility Instructor Program.
• Previous experience and knowledge of animal behavior, dog training skills, teaching skills, and Orientation and Mobility.
• Ability to work with a group of large dogs and provide a safe and humane training environment.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, strong organizational skills, and the ability to handle multiple tasks.
• Flexible schedule that includes non-traditional business hours including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Valid driver's license, chauffer's license, and passport (if required).
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office products.
• Sound business judgment, professional conduct, and understanding of business ethics and standards.
• Adherence to safety and health policies and procedures.
• CPR and health-related training.

Qualifications

• Ability to establish and maintain professional, productive, and courteous interactions with employees, volunteers, donors, clients, and all constituents.
• Physical demands include walking, standing, reaching, climbing, stooping, talking, hearing, smelling, lifting up to 50 pounds, and occasionally lifting up to 100 pounds.
• Specific vision abilities include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, and depth perception.
• Must be able to work outside in all weather conditions and walk distances consistent with training program needs for clients and dogs.

Skills

• Effective communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills.
• Ability to work with a variety of clients and dogs.
• Knowledge of animal behavior and training.
• Experience with Orientation and Mobility techniques.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance after 30 days of employment.
• Employer-paid life insurance.
• Employer-paid disability insurance.
• 401(k) with employer match.
• Flexible spending account.
• Paid time off front-loaded on first day of employment.
• Annual merit-based pay increases.

Pay

Compensation details are confidential and will be shared upon successful completion of the hiring process.

Schedule

Hours are flexible and may include evenings, weekends, and holidays.