Job Description
Contact at organisation: Danielle Jones, Blind Low Vision NZ
Phone: 022 014 7429
Email: blvnz-hr@blindlowvision.org.nz
Blind Low Vision NZ is the leading national provider of vision rehabilitation services for people who are blind, deafblind or have low vision.
Now more than ever, the opportunities are here to make a real difference for people with sight loss, and you’ll help us achieve our vison of empowering New Zealanders who are blind, deafblind or low vision, to live the life they choose. As well as supporting individuals, we seek to make big-picture change by advocating for inclusive communities and for optimal eye care services for all New Zealanders.
We have a rich history stretching back to 1890 and as we continue to connect people with sight loss to expert employees and their peers, we also continue to be one of New Zealand’s most trusted and iconic not for profit organisations.
About the role:
We are currently seeking a qualified Guide Dog Mobility Instructor to join our team at Blind Low Vision NZ Guide Dogs. This position is full-time, working 37.5 hours per week. You will work to deliver Guide Dog Mobility services (to International Guide Dog Federation and Blind Low Vision NZ standards) to people with vision impairment and blindness, provide tuition, training, and support to Cadet Guide Dog Mobility Instructors as required and you will assess, train and prepare assigned guide dogs to the standards determined by Blind Low Vision NZ Guide Dogs and in accordance with the International Guide Dog Federation (IGDF) standards.
The successful applicant will be based out of Blind Low Vision NZ Guide Dog Centre in South Auckland, however regular travel throughout New Zealand; (Auckland, Waikato, Bay of Plenty, and Northland) will be required to complete client programs.
Duties include:
- The primary responsibility of this role is training guide dogs as a member of the dog training team.
- To provide training, follow-up and aftercare services to guide dog handlers around the country, ensuring programmes meet the individual needs of the client and dog.
- Provide tuition and training to Cadet Guide Dog Mobility Instructors and Guide Dog Trainers as required.
- To assess, train and prepare assigned guide dogs to the standards determined by Blind Low Vision NZ (BLVNZ) Guide Dogs and in accordance with the International Guide Dog Federation (IGDF).
What we are looking for:
A Guide Dog Mobility Instructor with experience and has the following:
- A qualified Guide Dog Mobility Instructor from an organization accredited by the International Guide Dog Federation
- Minimum of two years’ post qualification experience in the guide dog field
- Computer skills and the ability to report fluently via written communication
- Comfort with speaking in public settings
- Current class 1 driver’s licence
- Current first aid certificate
- Relevant canine behavioural qualifications.
- Strong communication skills
- Physical ability to train dogs and guide dog teams in all types of weather
- Willingness to represent Blind Low Vision NZ in fundraising efforts
- Willingness to travel within New Zealand as required
How to Apply
We encourage all applications to be submitted through our website/careers page at blindlowvision.org.nz. All other inquiries please reach out to our recruitment team, recruitment@blindlowvision.org.nz.
