Job Openings

Guide Dogs of the Desert

08/06/2018

JOB DESCRIPTION

POSITION OVERVIEW

Reporting to the Executive Director, the Director will set and control the training and vacation schedules of the training staff and organizes on -site classes and off-site (in-home) trainings.  Works with Dorm Manager to ensure the proper schedule and care of the students in class are followed.  Communicates with the International Guide Dog Federation and ensures the Training Department is in compliance with the guidelines set forth by that entity, as well as Assistance Dogs International. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following:

·         Oversees effective student and dog training, applicant assessment, and student instruction

·         Approves and certifies all successful teams at the end of training program.

·         Serves as member of the Senior Management Team.

·         Work with the Executive Director and senior management to establish annual budget, accountable for meeting it.

·         Coordinates and collaborates, as appropriate, on actions and decisions impacting the Canine Development, Training and Breeding Program team efforts.

·         Ensures organization activity is consistent with International Guide Dog Federation standards.

·         Accommodates speaking requests representing Guide Dogs of the Desert as needed.

·         Visits/conducts interviews of potential clients.

·         Conducts follow-up and problem solving instruction to clients, as assigned and needed.

·         Responsible to share in overnight dorm duty during on-site training.

·         May be required to work some evenings, weekends, and travel out of the area.

·         Leadership- Maintains a positive, upbeat role in the company. Promotes and exemplifies organization values, represents departmental objectives and interests to internal and external customers, and is accountable for responsibilities and own actions.

·         Customer Service- Follows up on complaints, questions, and concerns; responds to                   internal/external customer needs in a timely and efficient manner.

·         Teamwork- Develops and promotes teamwork and cooperation among colleagues and employees.

·         Safety- Demonstrates commitment to a healthy and safe environment and follows all safety and security policies and procedures.

·         Flexibility- Adapts to changing policies and procedures, as well as varying deadlines.

·         Performs other duties as assigned, including kennel duties.

QUALIFICATIONS

To perform his job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.  The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

            Education and/or experience

·         Ten years’ experience employed in the field of people with visual impairments

·         Bachelor’s Degree (BA or BS) from an accredited college desirable.

·         Ten years’ experience in leadership and management of staff.

·         Extensive field experience working with blind/visually impaired individuals

            Required Skills, Abilities, and Knowledge

·         Ability to relate to, and instruct, a wide range of individuals, demonstrating patience, understanding, flexibility, and overall interest, motivating clients to their highest level of abilities.

·         Exercise professional conduct and maintain a high level of confidentiality in all duties.

·         Ability to establish and maintain professional, productive and courteous relationships with staff to promote positive teamwork.  This also encompasses volunteers, donors, clients and all constituents of Guide Dogs of the Desert and includes but is not limited to (a) performing work activities requiring interacting or speaking with others, (b) responding appropriately to constructive feedback or suggestions for improvement by any team member.

·         Excellent oral and written communication skills, as well as strong organizational skills and ability to handle multiple tasks.

·         Ability to supervise and develop staff members

·         Ability to collaborate and encourage two-way and cross organization communication

·         Able to pass a background check and pre-employment drug test

            Required Technical / Certification / Licenses

·         GDMI, COMS, TSVI, VRT or equivalent experience

·         Valid state of residence Driver’s License

·         Basic computer skills and manageable familiarity with Microsoft Office applications.

      Physical Demands

·         Required to work outside in all weather conditions and walk distances consistent with training program needs for students and dogs.

·         Regularly lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.

·         Regularly required to walk, stand, reach with hands and arms, climb stairs, balance, talk clearly, and with good distance, peripheral and depth perception vision, especially related to observing clients and dogs in training.

E_mail: cbergeron@gddca.org

Phone: 7603296257

Cert: COMS