“In my time at Guide Dogs, I have been given the opportunity to switch from a mainly dog care role to one that involves dog and client training. GDB gives me the tools I need to succeed in my career goals. The apprenticeship has been an amazing opportunity to learn the ins and outs of guide dog and client training. I am proud to be surrounded by people who are all working together with a similar goal in mind.”Guide Dog Mobility Instructor
Guide Dog Mobility Instructors
Let your teaching heart guide you here.
Being a Guide Dog Mobility Instructor with GDB is a special role that requires intelligence, emotional fortitude, and a love for both people and animals. What could be more rewarding than training a dog to fulfill its purpose as a guide, than working closely with a client and dog to secure the bond and ensure the team’s success? You’ll enjoy a sense of accomplishment every day knowing that your work is a crucial part of our mission.
If you can't access the online application, please send us your cover letter and resume by e-mail to [email protected].
Largest guide dog school in North America and an industry leader
Certified by the International Guide Dog Federation, with 3 staff members who are IGDF assessors
We specialize in R+ Operant Conditioning and positive reinforcement-based training
Why a Career in Our Training Department
GDB offers a stable, professional career in training guide dogs and working with clients, with the potential for longevity and ongoing learning and growth. You’ll have the equipment and training you need, plus exceptional support from your manager and team through frequent meetings and communication. You can potentially step up into higher levels of the Instructor role and even into a Supervisory position.
Our paid three-year Guide Dog Mobility Instructor Apprentice Program offers direct mentorship, intense on-the-job training, and a comprehensive academic curriculum. Apprentices learn how to train dogs and clients, support teams in the field, and assess applicants alongside qualified instructors. We are committed to your success by investing the time, resources, and training necessary to become a successful Guide Dog Mobility Instructor.
You will see amazing things happen with dogs, as they rise to their role as a guide through your training. And once a dog has been trained and matched with a person who is visually impaired or blind, you’ll help the team learn to work together to gain confidence and create a very special bond. You even get to travel to visit our clients in their homes for additional training and evaluation of the match.
You’ll definitely stay in shape as you clock many miles each day while you are training a dog or working with a client and guide dog team. You should also have a love for the outdoors and the capacity to work outside in all kinds of weather.
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“I hold an incredible amount of passion, commitment, responsibility, and pride in my work here. What sets GDB apart is its extensive and dedicated support base comprised of donors, staff, volunteers, alumni, and the public. The most satisfying aspect of my job is the variety. Whether I am training dogs, instructing clients, coaching established teams, or collaborating with co-workers and volunteers, my job never gets old.”Guide Dog Mobility Instructor
“Being part of the team at GDB means I will always be surrounded by support, encouragement, and advice. The GDB training team feels like family where you can bounce training ideas off each other, brainstorm, and problem-solve in a supportive and comfortable environment. I have made some of my closest friends here and it’s a great experience getting to work alongside colleagues that you enjoy spending time with.”Guide Dog Mobility Instructor