GDT qualified GDMI Apprentice

Contact at organisation: Patrick Glines, Guide Dogs of Texas, Inc.

Phone: +1 210 366 4081

Email: pat@guidedogsoftexas.org

Guide Dogs of Texas has recently initiated a rebuild of the organization, and is now in the position to hire a Guide Dog Trainer (GDT) interested in becoming a Guide Dog Mobility Instructor (GDMI) to share in our growth. The ideal candidate is an experienced GDT from an International Guide Dog Federation (IGDF) accredited school/GDMI who is looking for an opportunity for advancement. You will be working under the guidance of two highly qualified and experienced GDMIs.

PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES REQUIRED:

• You desire to give input, and help be a part of the team that grows an organization into the next phases of business, with a mission to be the employer of choice in the dog guide industry.
• Creative thinking and diversity is celebrated
• Excellent communication skills
• You recognize the need for continuous self-improvement, and always working to find ways to do the job better, and a desire for continued professional development
• Most of all, you desire work to be fun with a “work hard, play hard” attitude.

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES
Dog Programs:

• Assessing and providing end-to-end training to dogs, to IGDF standards
• Consistently evaluating dogs throughout training for suitability to meet the high standards required of Guide Dogs of Texas
• Providing direct support and mentorship to apprentice GDMIs

Client Programs:

• Interviewing and assessing applicant clients
• Participating in matching qualified dogs to applicants
• Leading all aspects of training with the client and their new guide dog, tailoring instruction to the individual needs of our clients
• Providing after care to graduated teams

Organizational duties:

• Represent, and speak on behalf of, Guide Dogs of Texas at information sessions, outreach events, and fundraisers
• Assist with training of staff and volunteers
• Actively participate in the evolution of the 2, 5, and 10 year plans, helping to shape the future and direction of the organization

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE:
Required:

• Qualified as a GDT from an IGDF accredited school/GDMI, ideally with 5+ years of experience
• Basic understanding of positive reinforcement techniques as they apply to training guide dogs. More experience is better but on the job training can be provided

EQUIPMENT AND COMPUTER OPERATIONS:
Required:

• Basic computer skills, experience with Microsoft Office products a plus.

PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATES, LICENSES OR REGISTRATIONS REQUIRED:

• IGDF GDT certification; must hold a valid Drivers License with a good record

INTERNAL CONTROL:
Within the scope of position duties, responsible for seeing that operations are effective and efficient, assets are safeguarded, and applicable laws, regulations, policies and procedures are complied with. This position will handle confidential information and sensitive situations and must treat each appropriately.

SUPERVISION:
Training on the role, and continuing education, will be provided. However, the candidate will be spending large amounts of time working alone. A self-starter and motivated, independent worker is required for this role.

PHYSICAL/ENVIRONMENTAL DEMANDS:
This is a physically demanding role. This role requires lifting, bending, walking up to 10-12 miles per day, and being on your feet throughout the work shift. Work is performed in a variety of environments, indoors and out. Bending, squatting, reaching, lifting, and handling young, physical dogs up to 80 lbs is necessary. Work is performed in all Texas weather conditions.

WORK SCHEDULE:
This job is generally from 7:00am to 4:00 pm, Monday to Friday. Hours may shift in warm weather to accommodate outdoor training. The role will require flexibility in working some weekends and evenings. The role will require overnight travel throughout Texas.

ATTIRE/DRESS CODE:
A professional image is expected, in line with the role. Must adhere to the company dress code. Uniform shirts will be provided.

RANGE OF PAY:
Up to $23 per hour depending on experience. A benefits package is also included.