Apprentice Guide Dog Mobility Instructor

Position Title

Apprentice Guide Dog Mobility Instructor

CNIB Guide Dogs Canine Campus - travel within Canada is required

Manager, Guide Dog Training Teams

The Apprentice Guide Dog Mobility Instructor (AGDMI) will join our Guide Dog training team in delivering a comprehensive, best-in-case program that empowers Canadians who are blind or partially sighted to enhance their independence and mobility through the partnership of a guide dog.

The AGDMI will be expected to complete the full apprenticeship curriculum as outlined by the International Guide Dog Federation (IGDF). Depending on prior experience, qualifications, and demonstrated competencies, the standard three-year apprenticeship may be shortened.

Throughout the apprenticeship, the AGDMI will work under the supervision of qualified Guide Dog Mobility Instructors (GDMI), progressively building the skills and knowledge required to become a certified GDMI. The level of supervision and support will decrease as the AGDMI gains experience and demonstrates competency.

To achieve qualification, the AGDMI must successfully complete all required assignments, as well as skills and knowledge assessments.

The AGDMI will play an important role in supporting program participants from their initial entry into the program through to their successful match with a guide dog—helping them achieve their goal of living independently with the support of a guide dog.

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 set 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.
• Develop and maintain 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 and supervising GDMI 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 AGDMI 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…