Trainer, Puppy Development

Canadian National Institute for the Blind•Winnipeg, MB

7d•CA$32 - CA$40•Hybrid

About The Position

This position assists in the operations of a puppy raising club, focusing on the assessment, selection, training, and management of volunteer Puppy Raisers. The goal is to ensure a sufficient supply of healthy, well-tempered, and socially acceptable young dogs for training as future guide dogs. The role also involves acting as an ambassador for CNIB Guide Dogs, promoting a positive public image, and supporting CNIB’s strategic direction.

Requirements

Excellent interpersonal skills.
Effective communication skills with a good standard of written and verbal English.
Aptitude for puppy and dog handling.
Ability to practically apply theoretical knowledge.
Ability to undertake the demands of the role, including walking long distances and controlling dogs of various breeds, ages, and temperaments.
Team player with the ability to work independently.
Professional approach and compliance with policies and procedures.
Basic skills in Microsoft Office software (Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, Word).
Knowledge of the local club area.
Previous experience in people management.
Previous experience in a teaching or mentoring role.
Current valid driving license.
High school diploma or equivalent.
Eligibility to work in Canada: Proof of identity and eligibility to work in Canada.

Nice To Haves

Previous experience supervising a puppy raising club.
Previous experience in animal welfare or behavior.
Certification in an appropriate subject.
Accredited learning in animal welfare or behavior.
Accredited learning in people management.
Accredited learning in teaching or mentoring.

Responsibilities

Recruits, interviews, and selects Puppy Raisers and boarders, ensuring adequate volunteer resources for puppy allocation.
Trains and supports volunteers throughout their puppy-raising careers, focusing on ongoing development and performance management.
Assesses, monitors, and records the social, educational, temperamental, and physical development of puppies, maintaining accurate documentation.
Manages the placement of puppies with puppy raisers within their club and identifies puppies ready for training or those that should be withdrawn.
Plans, organizes, and conducts regular training classes for Puppy Raisers and boarders in collaboration with the Manager Early Canine Development, including identifying and negotiating venue costs.
Identifies and addresses temperamental and behavioral issues in puppies, referring health issues for review and recommending castration/spaying.
Investigates and documents complaints and accidents related to puppies and Puppy Raisers, taking appropriate action in line with Health and Safety policies.
Acts as an ambassador for CNIB Guide Dogs, promoting a good public image and supporting CNIB’s strategic direction.
Performs other duties relevant to the role that positively impact the experience of individuals who are blind or partially sighted.