Guide Dog Mobility Instructor Tasmania

**Introduction**:
**A little about us**:
EverAbility Group have a long and proud history of providing services for people with disability across Western Australia and Tasmania. Together, our team of nearly 200 staff and over 500 volunteers support our growing group of diverse services.
**Our services at EverAbility Group include**:
VisAbility - our specialised service supporting people with low or no vision.
Guide Dogs WA and Guide Dogs Tasmania - our iconic service raising and training life changing assistance dogs.
Kites Children’s Therapy - our early intervention support, advice and solutions service transforming the lives of children and their families living with disability or developmental challenges.
**Description**:
Are you passionate about making a lasting impact on the lives of people with vision impairment? Join our Guide Dog Services Team and play a vital role in enhancing independence and mobility for individuals in need. We are seeking a Guide Dog Mobility Instructor who is dedicated to not only training exceptional guide dogs but also building meaningful connections with clients, ensuring they receive life-changing support and care.
- Salary Range $85,407.22- $97,707.83 depending on experience

**Key Responsibilities**:

- Assess and train guide dogs to meet the highest standards, based on International Guide Dog Federation guidelines, ensuring they are well-prepared to transform the lives of their future handlers.

Training guide dogs to obey and respond to verbal and non-verbal commands and address behavioural issues through structured training programs. This includes using verbal cues, hand signals, and other non-verbal communication.
- Collaborate with a supportive team to carefully match guide dogs with clients, creating partnerships that foster independence and confidence.
- Develop, document, and deliver personalised Guide Dog Client Training Programs, offering both in-centre and in-home support to empower clients to live fuller, more independent lives.
- Ensure each guide dog receives the best possible care, referring them for veterinary examinations as needed and monitoring their overall wellbeing.
- Stay current with the latest trends, techniques, and developments in guide dog training, ensuring the highest level of service and expertise.
- Advocate on behalf of clients to ensure equal access and opportunities, while also sharing information on the Guide Dog program to enrich the broader community.
- Work closely with other departments to contribute to the growth and success of Guide Dog TAS services across metropolitan and regional areas.
- Serve as a positive representative for Guide Dogs, promoting our mission and values both within the organisation and to the wider community.

**Skills and Experiences**:
**Essential Skills & Qualifications**:

- Recognised IGDF qualification in Guide Dog Mobility.
- Deep understanding of Guide Dog Mobility theory and practices, along with knowledge of relevant community resources.
- Strong organisational skills with the ability to remain calm under pressure.
- Sound understanding of current legislation, policies, and philosophy related to Guide Dogs.
- Physical capability to meet the demands of the role and complete all required tasks.
- Strong team player with the ability to work independently, contributing to a shared mission.
- Effective communication skills (both oral and written).
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office.
- Availability to work flexible hours, including weekends and evenings.
- Hold or be willing to obtain National Police Clearance, Working with Vulnerable People Check (with NDIS endorsement) and Valid Tasmanian Driver's Licence.

**Desirable**:

- Effective public presentation skills.
- Experience in IGDF-accredited organisations.
- Background in teaching or training adults and children

**Benefits**:In return, you will be rewarded with**:
Up to 3 days additional paid leave during year-end holiday season
Salary packaging, an opportunity to increase your take-home pay
Option to purchase additional leave
17.5% annual leave loading, where applicable
Ongoing professional development and training
Employee Assistance Program
How to apply?
We encourage people with disability and of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander background to apply. Everyone is welcome, as we are an inclusive and diverse workplace.