Guide Dog Mobility Instructor

Position Title: Guide Dog Mobility Instructor
Location: Carleton Place, ON (CNIB Guide Dogs Canine Campus travel within Canada is required)
Reports To: Manager, Guide Dog Training

I. Scope and Summary of Primary Responsibilities

The Guide Dog Mobility Instructor (GDMI) will be an integral member of our Guide Dog training team, delivering a best-in-class program designed to empower Canadians who are blind or partially sighted to achieve greater independence and mobility through the support of a guide dog.

The GDMI will play a vital role throughout the participant journey—from initial program entry through to successful matching with a guide dog—supporting individuals in reaching their goal of living independently in partnership with their guide dog.

II. Essential Functions

The position entails, but is not limited to the following general responsibilities:

• Implement and deliver training courses to program participants, which also may include staff colleagues and apprentices within the program.
• Ensure that the trained guide dogs are suitably paired to an appropriate program participant by thoroughly understanding the dog’s temperament and skills and how these would best compliment the needs within the lifestyle of the participant.
• Train all dogs within the program according to established IGDF standards as well as specific program principles as determined by CNIB Guide Dogs, which includes identifying temperamental and behavioral characteristics and ensures the application of appropriate training methods.
• Assess and recommend specific dogs that have the necessary attributes to progress within the established training program, including those that are deemed to be better suited in a different function within the program.
• Provide the necessary aftercare services to the trained guide dog and participants that supports a high level of mobility, dog welfare and maximizes the pairing between the Guide Dog and its handler.
• Assess the capacity and skills-sets exemplified by the trained guide dog and how to best apply these in consideration of the assessed capacity of the participant.
• Develop a mobility plan, tailored to the participant, to meet needs and expectations in relation to the individual’s mobility goals and the use of a Guide Dog.
• Have an ability to provide ongoing written reports that enhance quality control and contribute to a historical summary on each dog within the program that lead to recommendations throughout the formal training process.
• Act as an ambassador for CNIB Guide Dogs, promoting a best-in-class service and professional public image.
• Develops and maintains positive and professional working relationships with participants, colleagues and volunteers.
• Committed to a continuous high level of quality outputs and customer service.
• Delivers in collaboration with colleagues upon the annual training objectives and core program activities as required in an identified timely manner.
• Proven ability and experience to work within a team environment and contribute sound solutions to any operational matters.
• This position works under the general direction of the CNIB Guide Dogs guidelines and standards but has the required latitude in making decisions on daily activities as it pertains to their role and responsibilities.
• The GDMI operates with direct supervision from the Manager, Guide Dog Training Teams and consults with this individual on issues that are more complex or that may require a higher level of approval.
• The GDMI works in a team environment and in collaboration with the Manager, Guide Dog Training Teams and the entire training team to achieve annual objectives.

III. Qualifications

Knowledge and Skill Requirements

• Experience working with and training guide dogs for the blind and partially sighted community.
• Experience working with people with disabilities.
• Able to apply theoretical and practical knowledge of teaching and learning to people with disabilities (including children, youth and adults).
• Able to undertake physical demands of the role including walking long distances and working effectively with a range of dogs, ages and temperaments.
• Collaborative contributor in a team environment and a proven ability to work independently.
• Demonstrated excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office suites.

Experience and Education

• GDMI qualification or certificate recognized by the International Guide Dog Federation (IGDF).
• Experience in working with dogs of all ages and levels of training.
• Experience and knowledge of best practice dog training methods.
• Current valid driver's license.
• Eligible to work in Canada.

Work Environment

• Flexible and willing to work in changing environments including a non-regular schedule of hours.
• Involves working outdoors, in all weather elements, with strong active guide dogs.
• Travel and overnight stays are a requirement of the role.

CNIB is committed to accommodating applicants with disabilities and will work with applicants requesting accommodations at any stage of the hiring process.