Guide Dogs for the Blind. Apprentice Trainer.
Being an Apprentice Guide Dog Mobility Instructor with Guide Dogs for the Blind (GDB) on our Boring, OR campus is a special role that requires intelligence, emotional fortitude, and a love for both people and animals. What could be more rewarding than training a dog to fulfill its purpose as a guide, then working closely with a client and dog to secure the bond and ensure the team’s success? You’ll enjoy a sense of accomplishment every day knowing that your work is a crucial part of our mission.
Our paid, three-year Guide Dog Mobility Instructor Apprentice Program offers direct mentorship, intense on-the-job training, and a comprehensive academic curriculum. You will learn how to train dogs and clients, support teams in the field, and assess applicants alongside qualified instructors. We are committed to your success by investing the time, resources, and training necessary for you to become a Guide Dog Mobility Instructor based on the requirements of the International Guide Dog Federation and State of California Guide Dog Instructor program.
What sets us apart?
GDB offers a stable, professional career in dog training, with the potential for longevity and ongoing learning and growth. You can potentially step up into higher levels of the Instructor role and even into a Supervisory position.
You’ll have the resources and training you need, plus exceptional support from your mentor, manager, and team through frequent meetings and communication.
You will see amazing things happen as dogs rise to their role as a guide through your training. Once a dog has been trained and matched with a person who is visually impaired or blind, you’ll help the team work together, gain confidence, and create a special bond. You even get to travel to visit our clients in their homes for additional training and evaluation.
You’ll stay in shape as you clock many miles each day that you are training a dog or working with a client and guide dog team. You should love working outdoors in all kinds of weather.
Our generous benefits package includes medical/dental/vision/life/disability insurance, 403(b), tuition reimbursement, and great wellness perks like yoga, circuit training, and an onsite gym.
You can bring your dog to work!
The qualifications you’ll need:
Experience as a Kennel Technician at GDB or equivalent
High school diploma or equivalent; some college preferred
Ability to safely handle a variety of large-breed dogs
Current driver license and insurability at non-risk rates
Ability to work weekends, evenings, and holidays