Guide Dog Trainer

Contact at organisation: Kim Ryan, Guide Dogs WA

Phone: +61419 123 115

Email: kim.ryan@guidedogstas.com.au

This position is responsible to ensure a consistent supply of high-quality Guide Dogs are assessed and trained to meet the requirements and standards set by Guide Dogs WA. This role is physically demanding with frequent walking, bending, and dealing with the needs of a young dog. The ability to interact with people, especially our volunteers with a high level of empathy, compassion and care is integral to this role. This position may also provide support to the assistance dog and facility dog programs.

Key responsibilities and accountabilities

• Assess dogs for suitability to continue with Guide Dog training
• Test dogs’ responses to environmental stimuli and monitor social behaviour which includes personal home assessment
• Review individual characteristics of dogs to determine appropriate training methodology and design an efficient and measurable training plan.
• Train and consolidate appropriate guiding skills.
• Prepare dogs in accordance with determined programme to ensure supply within desired time frame and quality
• Review each dog’s progress at pre-determined times to ensure it is reaching an appropriate skill level.
• Highlight all health issues and promptly refer them to be reviewed, assisting with the management and implementation of veterinary treatment plans
• Identify temperamental and behavioural issues and ensure the application of appropriate solutions.
• Liaise with the team leader with regard to workload/duties and apply advice given for development of dogs in training.
• Liaise and work with various internal teams as required for the specific requirements for individual dogs.
• Apply training standards for Guide Dog training as per IGDF and organisational standards
• Work closely with the Puppy Development team, providing technical support as required
• Effectively liaise with volunteers to build positive relationships and assist with recruitment and training
• Maintain accurate and current documentation including formal temperament assessments for dogs under responsibility
• Report and document all accidents and incidents relating to dogs and also with third parties, in line with current safety and health policies.
• Participate as required in Fundraising and Public Relations events
• Act as an ambassador for Guide dogs, promoting good public image and supporting EverAbility’s strategic direction.
• Other duties as reasonably directed by Management.

Desired Skills and Experience
Essential:

• Guide Dog Trainer Qualifications from a recognised IGDF organisation
• Demonstrated experience in dog handling, effective leadership and control over dogs
• Ability to relate to dogs of all ages and at various levels of training
• Skills in problem analysis and the ability to recognise changes in dog behaviour
• Enthusiasm, energy, drive and persistence to undertake repetitive work that is both physically and mentally challenging
• Ability to maintain good voice control
• Demonstrated ability to undertake a methodical approach to your work through to completion, while maintaining flexibility and adaptability to varying workloads and tasks.
• High level of initiative, while still being able to work under direction
• Superior planning and organising skills.
• Ability to work well within a team, as well as independently, assuming responsibility for nominated tasks.
• Effective communication skills both oral and written.
• High level interpersonal skills and an ability to show empathy when interacting with volunteers
• Demonstrated knowledge and expertise in use of Microsoft Office programs.
• Current National Police Clearance Certificate
• Current Driver’s License
• Working with Children Check
• NDIS worker screen check
• Fully Covid-19 and Influenza vaccinated

Desirable:

• Previous experience in a teaching role
• Up-to-date knowledge of Guide Dog Mobility theory and practices, and knowledge of community resources relevant to people with vision impairment.
• Effective public presentation skills.
• Broad base of experience in one or more IGDF accredited organisations.

What’s in it for You?
If you enjoy variety in your work, where no day is the same, then this is the role for you! Feel rewarded by purpose in your work as you help people living with disability and developmental delay to achieve independence and inclusion. Be challenged by the work you do in this dynamic and changing environment. We have a number of professionals in diverse roles with expertise in their field. Learn and expand your knowledge in this specialised area. You will also benefit from:

• NFP salary packaging options – use some of your salary for everyday expenses before income tax; meaning you can increase your take-home pay!
• Free onsite parking and close to public transport (across the road from Victoria Park Train Station)
• Work within a friendly and supportive team who are passionate about what they do
• Flexible working arrangements – work from home options and flexible start and finish times
• Access to Training and Professional Development opportunities.
• 3 additional days of paid leave as a gift to you over the Christmas / New Year period
• An Employee Assistance Program offering external counselling and support services to you and your family
• Dogs in the office every day!