Job Title:
Trainer Apprentice
Department:
Technical Training Team
Location:
National Headquarters and Training Centre, Model Farm Road, Cork
Purpose of Role:
During this 12 month apprenticeship, you will be trained as a Guide Dog and Assistance Dog Trainer and learn from others and develop your own skills as a Trainer. Ultimately, you will be trained to train both Guide Dogs and Assistance Dogs. You will support colleagues in the Technical Training Team in their work to develop highly skilled dogs who will hopefully become Guide Dogs or Assistance Dogs while.
Responsibilities:

• Carry out preliminary assessment of dogs.
• Prepare selected dogs according to the pre-determined programme to ensure that dogs are supplied within desired time frame and quality.
• Identify temperamental and behavioural issues and ensure the application of appropriate solutions.
• Highlight all health issues and promptly refer them for review.
• Adapt pre-determined programme and implement individual training programmes for allocated dogs.
• Assist in training for new staff, students, Puppy Raisers, Guide Dog Mobility Instructors and others, as required.
• Highlight dogs that are ready for the training progression and recommend dogs that should be withdrawn.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records on our database system, PAWS.
• Maintain regular and appropriate communication with Puppy Raisers to update on the dogs' progress.
• Report and document all accidents and incidents relating to dogs and also with third parties, in line with current Health and Safety policies.
• Work with the Client Services Team to ensure Aftercare visits are carried out in a timely manner including maintaining accurate records for client after care.
• Work as part of a team to support each other and, from time to time, support other departments such as Fundraising to ensure the efficient and effective operations of Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind.

In addition to these key accountabilities, you may also have ownership for one or more key processes which will be communicated to you via your manager and/or the Performance Management framework.
Values and Behaviours:
IGDB places great emphasis on how people get the job done. For example, we need people who are passionate about enabling people who are vision-impaired and families of children with autism to lead better lives and become more mobile and independent. Employees are expected to achieve these standards to fully meet the expectations of their role.
Respect - Treats clients, colleagues, and volunteers with equal respect. Is open-minded and tolerant of different views.
Teamwork - Supports a team environment which promotes wellbeing and maximises personal effectiveness. Communicates clearly and effectively with others.
Strives to be supportive, consistent, and professional with clients, colleagues, and volunteers.
Optimism - Is solution-focused and looks to bring a positive attitude to challenges. Celebrates wins and encourages others to do the same. Does not fear failure – believes we can all learn lessons for the next time together.
Conscientiousness - Takes pride in what is done and how it is done. Always presents a professional and capable manner in all tasks that are completed. Has a clarity of purpose, sets a good example for others. Is accountable for what is done and takes ownership for achievement.
Integrity - Leads by example. Is fair and consistent when working with clients, colleagues and volunteers. Takes ownership of achievements and responsibility for failure.
Excellence - Strives to continuously improve own performance.
Experience, Education and Skills

• Experience of dog handling skills and knowledge, demonstrating the successful delivery of an outcome.
• A minimum of 1 year’s continuous service in current role is required for all internal applicants.
• Ability to demonstrate an understanding of dog psychology and behaviour modification.
• Ability to successfully embrace and solve problem behaviours.
• Flexibility is required in adapting existing procedures to meet current need.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Excellent employment record.
• Practical experience working with dogs within either dog care or training environment.
• Knowledge of dog training and methods, staff training and instructional techniques and canine behaviour.
• Excellent computer skills in Excel, Word etc.
• Animal Care Qualification or equivalent.
• Educated to pass Leaving Certificate standard (or equivalent) including English, Maths and ideally science.

Special Conditions

• Full clean driving licence essential.
• Must be eligible to work in Ireland and EU.
• Subject to full Garda vetting.

To apply, please send the below information to Recruitment@Guide Dogs.ie

• Up-to-date CV

• Cover letter highlighting your specific areas of interest and skill sets

The closing date for applications is 15.11.2024. Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind is an equal opportunity employer.
Job Type: Apprenticeship
Work Location: In person
Application deadline: 15/11/2024