Guide Dog Mobility Instructor
About The Position
The Certified Guide Dog Mobility Instructor is responsible for training, evaluating, and matching guide dogs with individuals who are blind or visually impaired. This position delivers hands-on dog training and direct client instruction to ensure safe, effective, and independent mobility for each partnership. Under the guidance of the Guide Dog Program Director, the Instructor trains and supports up to 4–8 dogs at a time, applying positive-reinforcement methods aligned with International Guide Dog Federation (IGDF) standards. The role combines canine-handling expertise with compassionate client instruction and precise documentation to uphold Dogs Inc’s mission of transforming lives through extraordinary partnerships between people and dogs.
Requirements
- Certified Guide Dog Mobility Instructor credential from an IGDF-accredited program (or equivalent).
- Minimum one year of experience as a Certified Guide Dog Instructor.
- Strong knowledge of dog behavior, learning theory, and positive-reinforcement principles.
- Familiarity with orientation and mobility skills and common visual impairments.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office and database systems (IWDR, ProVet, Volgistics) is preferred.
- Excellent communication, teaching, and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to handle confidential and sensitive information with discretion.
- Ability to lift up to 100 lbs with assistance, walk multiple miles per day, and work indoors/outdoors in varying conditions.
Nice To Haves
- Bachelor’s degree in Animal Behavior, Animal Science, or related field preferred.
- Familiarity with IWDR preferred.
Responsibilities
- Conduct individualized and group training sessions for guide dogs in all stages of development, following Dogs Inc and IGDF standards.
- Shape and reinforce guide behaviors using evidence-based, positive-reinforcement methods.
- Evaluate each dog’s aptitude, temperament, and readiness for class placement.
- Maintain accurate, current training records and progress reports to ensure data integrity.
- Administer medications or treatments as prescribed.
- Ensure class-ready dogs meet IGDF accreditation standards prior to placement.
- Maintain clean, safe, and enriching training environments for all program dogs.
- Instruct clients on the care, handling, and partnership of their guide dogs during on-campus training and home placements.
- Conduct client evaluations, home interviews, and post-graduation follow-ups as needed; travel may be required.
- Provide clear, compassionate instruction adapted to each client’s learning style and mobility needs.
- Prepare and maintain follow-up documentation, ensuring continuity of care and client success.
- Collaborate with the Guide Dog Program Director, other instructors, and support departments to ensure seamless program operations.
- Assist with dog-handler match decisions and provide input during class preparation.
- Represent Dogs Inc professionally during tours, donor presentations, outreach events, and graduations.
- Participate in interdisciplinary meetings and contribute to continuous program improvement.
Benefits
- Full dental and vision insurance premiums covered
- Competitive medical coverage
- A $15,000 life insurance policy
- Discretionary retirement plan match for all benefit-eligible employees after one full year of employment
- Free access to our fitness center
- Chef-prepared lunches served on campus (Monday-Friday)
- Generous Paid Time Off policies (12-20 days/year based on tenure)
- 14 paid holidays—including your birthday!
- Learn and Earn education program
- Pawsitive Strides walking program
- Bring your well-behaved, pre-screened dog to work
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
