Learner Guide Dog Mobility Instructor - South African Guide-Dogs Association

Key function:

Assessing of dogs for their suitability to be trained as a guide dog.
Training of suitable dogs to work as guide dogs.
Care of the dogs that are in training.
Instructing owners in the safe and effective use of a working dog.
Supporting guide dog owners and their dogs throughout the dogs working life.
Support and education of puppy raisers.
Support of the marketing department.

Key responsibilities:

Training of guide dogs to required standard within a set period of time.
Interviewing and assessing guide dog applicants, existing clients, and puppy raisers.
Recommendation of acceptance for training, where appropriate.
Training of accepted applicants and their dogs either from their homes (within South Africa), at GDA Johannesburg or at GDA Cape Town branch, in both theoretical and practical education.
Education and support of Puppy Raisers with regards to the socialisation and care of pups.
Organise and conduct post class/routine/emergency aftercare for clients.
Conduct emergency visits to puppy raisers if required.
Accurate and timeous recording keeping.
Support of the marketing department and participation at marketing events after hours and on weekends.

Essential qualities:

Good people skills (empathy for people who are differently-abled).
Able to cope with the emotional demands of the position.
Ability and willingness to undertake public speaking engagements on behalf of the association.
Willingness to work on weekends and after hours.
Available to travel and work with clients (within South Africa) for up to 35 days consecutively.
Physically fit and prepared to assist clients in a physical manner.
Must be able to walk 15 km per day.
Must be prepared to write tests and exams and achieve a 70% pass mark.


Requirements

Must be able to communicate in English and Afrikaans.
Must have a valid drivers licence.
Must have a minimum education level of a matric certificate (additional education an advantage).
Dog training experience is essential.
Puppy socialising experience an advantage.
Clicker training experience an advantage.
An understanding of dog behaviour and dog health an advantage.
Completion of a COAPE course an advantage.

How to apply for this:


Persons interested in this position are requested to submit the following documents to Maxine Geddie, here MaxineG@guidedog.org.za

1. A copy of their CV and qualifications. Contactable references essential.
2. Letter of motivation.
3. Copy of identity document.

Applications close on 12 October 2018.