Guide Dog Mobility Instructor (GDMI)

Contact at organisation: Jamie Massey, Pilot Dogs

Phone: 210-430-3313

Email: jmassey@pilotdogs.org

ABOUT US

Established in 1950, Pilot Dogs is a nonprofit organization in Columbus, Ohio, with a mission to help people who are blind or visually impaired achieve greater independence, mobility, safety, and confidence. We provide our students with highly-skilled dogs, unsurpassed handler training, on-campus housing, room and board, and many other services, all at no cost to our students.

We are looking for experienced, passionate, and dedicated Guide Dog Mobility Instructors (GDMIs) to join our team and make a profound impact on the lives of individuals with visual impairments. As a GDMI, you will be responsible for training and matching guide dogs with students, empowering them to achieve greater independence and mobility.

This position occasionally requires out of town, weekend, and overnight duties. Competitive salary based on experience.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The essential functions include, but are not limited to:

• Overseeing the welfare and health care of all dogs in Advanced Guide Dog Training
• Training dogs starting from the Pilot Puppy Program up through placement with a student who is blind or visually impaired, helping to ensure they become reliable and trustworthy partners
• Evaluating dogs for intake into Advanced Training
• Working with the matching committee to assess applicants and match the dogs to prospective students
• Conducting classes to train students how to work with their new Pilot Dog (in classroom and residential settings, as well as a wide variety of other environments), promoting a strong bond and teamwork
• Daily grooming, monitoring the mental and physical well-being of their dogs, and working with veterinary staff to ensure the best care of the dogs in Advanced Training
• Conducting guide dog assessments, and maintaining detailed records for dog health care, temperament, and training progress
• Providing support services for graduates such as answering inquiries, conducting home interviews, and post-graduation services, and maintaining detailed records of such
• Training and working closely with volunteers
• Working with the Chief Canine Care Officer to place Career Change dogs
• Taking part in public relations, educational, and fundraising opportunities
• Assisting with facility and vehicle upkeep
• Preventing, diagnosing, and handling issues with dogs or client/guide dog teams
• Training other staff as needed

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an associate to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made.

• Work is performed in a variety of environments, including indoors and outdoors, and in public and private settings, frequently near busy traffic
• May need to physically stop a client/guide dog team from walking into a dangerous situation or falling, including on stairs
• Must be able to lift 50 pounds, as well as stand, bend, stoop, climb, squat, reach, lift, and be physically fit enough to walk 4-6 hours a day, in all types of weather
• Must be able to confidently handle all types of dogs up to 100 pounds, including young, physical dogs

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Holds an IGDF-accredited Guide Dog Mobility Instructor certification
• Possesses empathy and patience, as well as appropriate knowledge, coaching, and teaching skills for people with visual impairments
• Strong guide dog assessment, training, husbandry and handling skills, with a proven track record of success
• Proficiency in Excel, Word, and basic computer skills, as well as experience with basic office equipment and all guide dog training and husbandry equipment
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, often physically-demanding environment
• Ability to organize work effectively, including overseeing health and work of dogs and graduate teams, and be willing to work both independently and in a team environment
• Must possess a high standard of integrity and work ethic
• Ability to follow written and oral instructions and procedures
• Ability to promote positive public relations
• Ability to plan and complete job duties with minimal supervision, using appropriate judgment
• Must hold a valid driver’s license and be able to pass a background check

If you are enthusiastic about making a positive impact on the lives of people who are visually impaired and you possess the necessary skills and qualifications, we encourage you to apply for this rewarding opportunity!

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance