Position Title:
Guide Dog Mobility Instructor (GDMI)(May be filled as Senior Instructor, Master Instructor or Apprentice Instructor)
Reports To:
Director of TrainingOVERALL SUMMARY
The Guide Dog Mobility Instructor (GDMI) is responsible for the assessment and training of guide dogs, assessing applicants who are blind or vision impaired, matching trained guide dogs with clients and providing clients with the training to ensure safe, effective, independent mobility. The GDMI is also called upon to provide follow-up services to ensure the ongoing safety and independence of GDB clients. In addition, Instructors are responsible for completing applicant home interviews. When assigned the GDMI is also responsible for the quality of an Apprentice's dog and student training. They are also called on to support organizational initiatives that include public education and outreach.
Within the scope of the GDMI position, assignments and areas of specialization may be required as needed (this includes Dog Trainer Specialist, Class Instructor Specialist Core Support & Orientation Mobility services.) .
POSITION ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
- Consistently provides an entire string of "class ready" dogs in the training cycle framework.
- Implements and organizes the class-training program for students in class, and effectively teaches students in the use of "class ready" dogs.
- As assigned, Instructors with their Masters degree in Orientation and Mobility will provide support and services that include applicant assessment, student training and staff/University student education. Responsible for staying current with O&M industry standards.
- Together with the Class Supervisor, guides Apprentice Instructors in all aspects of class work: teaching students in the use of their guide dogs, learning GDB techniques for training "class ready" dogs and the correct procedures for documenting their dogs' progress. giving class lectures and student critiques, daily class scheduling, completing class reports.
- Implements GDB techniques for dog care and kennel maintenance.
- Provides clear and accurate reports on assigned clients and dogs.
- Works cooperatively within a team structure towards the goal of fulfilling GDB's core mission.
- Coordinates planning for graduate and applicant visits. Conducts effective graduate follow-up visits, applicant interviews and graduate assist. Provides Field Services with accurate reports on each applicant interview and graduate visit. Educates Apprentice Instructors in all aspects of fieldwork and field reports.
- Builds mutually beneficial relationships with agencies that serve people with visual impairments and represents GDB by involvement in public education and outreach events.
- Adheres to our organization's safety policies and procedures and encourages others to do the same. Promptly reports incidents and accidents according to campus procedures.
- Undertakes other duties as assigned.
POSITION ESSENTIAL REQUIREMENTS
- Licensed/Qualified guide dog instructor. Must maintain current Guide Dog Instructor License through the California State Board of Guide Dogs for the Blind.
- Valid Class B license (with passenger transportation endorsement) and Medical Certificate required (California). If not, must obtain a Class B driver license within 90 days of start date, along with insurable driving record at normal rates or Oregon equivalent.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
- Able to repeatedly bend, stoop, kneel and squat. Able to walk up to 8 miles each day.
- Must safely handle a variety of large breed dogs, weighing up to 90 pounds, with varying strength and manageability. Able to safely lift up to 40 pounds. Employees are required to seek assistance when lifting dogs or objects weighing more than 40 pounds.
- Able to train a broad range of dog temperaments and types.
- Able to effectively teach people with various temperaments, capabilities, and experience levels.
- Strong initiative and problem-solving skills when working independently.
- Solid time management and organization skills.
- Basic competency with e-mail, word processing, spreadsheet, and database applications.
- High school diploma or equivalent; some college preferred.
- Able to work weekends, evenings, and holidays and spend nights in Dormitory.
- Masters degree in Orientation & Mobility required for Instructors assigned to support O&M services (as needed).
SPECIFICATIONS
Full-time or part-time, non-exempt position. GDMIs that are not licensed in California will be required to pass Guide Dogs for the Blind, Inc.'s in-house instructor examination and gain state certification within 12 months after hire.
Can't access our online application for employment? Send us your cover letter and resume via e-mail to icareer@guidedogs.com.