Are you passionate about dogs and making a difference in people’s lives? Do you dream of a career where every day brings the opportunity for growth, learning, and a sense of purpose? If so, we have an exciting opportunity for you!
Dogs with Wings Assistance Dog Society (DWW) is seeking a dedicated and compassionate individual to join our team as an Apprentice Instructor. As an Apprentice Instructor, you’ll embark on a rewarding journey of training service dogs that will ultimately be placed with individuals and social service agencies, positively impacting the lives of those in need.
- Assist in evaluation, selection and training of dogs in all DWW programs
- Deliver the advanced training program with skill and efficiency
- Conduct and plan training classes, as needed
- Conduct training assessments on dogs and puppies in-training
- Communicate regularly with volunteers and trainers with updates on dogs in training
- Coordinate and troubleshoot activities with volunteers to ensure quality care and training of dogs under your care
- Work with volunteers, as assigned, and maintain good relationships with volunteers
- Maintain and update written and digital records, according to established procedures
- Ensure proper routine care, health care, and maintenance of the dogs with the assistance of the RVT
- Support client work (ie. team training, follow up visits, and correspondence with clients across Western Canada, etc.)
- Assist in instructing clients to work safely and effectively with a trained Assistance Dog
- Participate in the planning and scheduling of client training, matching dogs to clients, and class training activities
- Participate in admissions meetings to evaluate new and reapplying clients
- Complete the Apprenticeship educational program, which includes completion of required reading, written papers, and examinations
- Attend events, volunteer events, and fundraising activities as required
- Represent DWW and attend conferences as required
- Conduct presentations as required
- Transport of puppies, dogs, food, and supplies
- Demonstrate and communicate a strong commitment to the mission and values of the organization
- Know how to assess work needs, prioritize, and adapt to changing routines
- Identifies and makes improvements where necessary; creates efficiencies in processes
- Apply excellent observation skills, determines urgency or reportable incidents
- Demonstrate excellent teaching skills with volunteers and staff
- Work collaboratively and empowers volunteers and staff
- Generate regular communications such as memos, emails, and monthly reports
- Perform other related duties as assigned
Skills and Abilities
- Possesses tact, sound judgment, and discretion
- Strong communication skills, with the ability to build and foster relationships with a wide range of individuals
- Attention to detail and problem-solving skills
- Able to enforce and communicate organizational policies
- Excellent time management skills and ability to prioritize work.
Qualifications:
- Formal education in dog training
- Diploma or degree in a relevant field is an asset
- Proficient in MS Office (MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.)
- Prior experience as a Trainer in an Assistance Dogs International accredited organization would be an asset
This is a permanent full-time term position (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) with some irregular hours from time to time (evenings and weekends) around events and other organizational activities.
Employment Perks & Benefits:
- Competitive base salary
- Health & dental benefits
- Flexible work arrangements/hours
- Professional development opportunities
- Investment Program (one year vested)
- Annual vacation allotment that increases with length of service
- Statutory and General Holidays off
- Holiday closure period between Christmas Eve and New Year’s Day
- Dogs with Wings merchandise and apparel
- Costco membership
- Staff discounts on dog food and supplies
- Fitness membership contribution (coming soon!)
- Interest free computer/device loan program with flexible payment options (coming soon!)
Application Process:
To apply, please submit your resume and cover letter to careers@dogswithwings.ca by the closing date of Friday, December 22, 2023 (midnight). Please include your base salary expectation in your cover letter. Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience.
DWW strives to provide access and accommodations throughout the application and selection process. We invite applications from all qualified candidates and welcome self-declarations of status in the interest of equity, diversity, and inclusion.