Apprentice Guide Dog Mobility Instructor (AGDMI) - Bilingual at Canadian National Institute for the Blind

Beckwith, Ontario, Canada -

Full Time

Start Date

Immediate

Expiry Date

19 May, 26

Salary

61110.0

Posted On

18 Feb, 26

Experience

2 year(s) or above

Remote Job

Yes

Telecommute

Yes

Sponsor Visa

Skills

Bilingual, Guide Dog Training, Program Delivery, Dog Temperament Assessment, Training Standards Implementation, Participant Assessment, Mobility Planning, Written Reporting, Public Relations, Interpersonal Communication, Team Collaboration, Independent Work, Microsoft Office

Industry

Non-profit Organizations

Description

Position Title: Apprentice Guide Dog Mobility Instructor (AGDMI) - Bilingual Location: CNIB Guide Dogs Canine Campus - travel within Canada is required Reports To: Manager, Guide Dog Training Teams I. Scope and Summary of Primary Responsibilities The Apprentice Guide Dog Mobility Instructor (AGDMI) - Bilingual 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. II. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS The position entails, but is not limited to the following general responsibilities: * Implement and deliver training courses to program participants in both official languages (French & English), 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. III. Qualifications Knowledge and Skill Requirements * Experience working with and training guide dogs for the blind and partially sighted community. * Experience working with people with disabilities. * Able to apply theoretical and practical knowledge of teaching and learning to people with disabilities (including children, youth and adults). * Able to undertake physical demands of the role including walking long distances and working effectively with a range of dogs, ages and temperaments. * Collaborative contributor in a team environment and a proven ability to work independently. * Demonstrated excellent interpersonal and communication skills. * Proficient in Microsoft Office suites. Experience and Education * Experience in working with dogs of any age and level of training, preferred. * Experience and knowledge of best practice dog training methods, preferred. * Current valid driver's license. * Eligible to work in Canada or willing to acquire a valid work permit. Work Environment * Flexible and willing to work in changing environments including a non-regular schedule of hours. * Involves working outdoors, in all weather elements, with strong active guide dogs. * Travel and overnight stays are a requirement of the role. CNIB is committed to accommodating applicants with disabilities and will work with applicants requesting accommodations at any stage of the hiring process.

Responsibilities

The Apprentice Guide Dog Mobility Instructor (AGDMI) will deliver a comprehensive program to empower Canadians who are blind or partially sighted by training guide dogs and matching them with participants. Responsibilities include implementing training courses in both official languages, assessing dogs and participants, developing tailored mobility plans, and providing aftercare services.