Trainer

Contact at organisation: Kristine Wallace, Guide Dogs of America

Phone: 8188336439

Email: kdwallace@guidedogsofamerica.org

Job Purpose: Responsible for the assessment and training of guide dogs. Matching trained guide dogs with clients who are blind or visually impaired and providing training to ensure safe, effective, independent mobility.

Essential Functions:

• Follows GDA techniques for dog care and kennel maintenance.
• Consistently provides an entire string of specially trained dogs to be partnered with clients.
• Trainers will provide clear and accurate reports on the progress of their assigned in-for-training dogs.
• Implements and organizes the training for students in class and effectively teaches students to utilize their guide dog. Guides Apprentice instructors in all aspects of class work and teaching students in the use of their guide dog.
• Applies GDA training techniques and the correct procedures for documenting their dogs’ progress, giving class lectures and students critiques.
• Provides assistance in the class setting which includes assisting students with general instruction, dog care and matters that arise. Managing any critical situations requiring immediate intervention and reporting incidents to class instructors.
• Conducts effective graduate follow-up visits, applicant interviews and graduate assist.
• Ability to travel as well as work nights, overnights and weekends as needed.
• Other duties as assigned.

Essential Physical Requirements:

• Must be able to lift a minimum of 40 lbs. and 70 lbs. with assistance.
• Must be able to bend, squat, stoop, etc.
• Ability to walk long distances (@ 8 miles each day) in all weather conditions.
• Ability to lift up to 60 pounds; must possess the physical strength to lift healthy, potentially strong, large breed dogs.
• Ability to handle and control a large breed dog.
• Ability to exert 20 to 50 pounds of force including pushing or moving objects.
• Ability to stand, push, pull, reach overhead and bend to the floor.
• Ability to wear protective gear including masks, gloves, goggles, boots.
• Visual acuity required to see and read dog’s reaction to environment and distractions, ability to read forms, documentation, and computer screen.
• Hearing ability required to interact with dogs, trainers, students, and volunteers.
• Ability to work indoors and outdoors in all types of weather.
• Working within a prison environment.
• Working with all sizes of dogs.
• Ability to tolerate elevated noise levels – barking dogs.

Qualifications:

• 18+ years of age.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Work well as part of a team and in a team environment.
• High school graduate or GED.
• Instructors must have completed a 3-year apprenticeship under licensed instructor at an accredited guide dog school.
• Excellent interpersonal, teamwork and communication skills.
• Ability to train a broad range of dog temperaments.
• Strong initiative and problem-solving skills when working independently.
• Proficient in Microsoft, Word, Excel and Outlook.