Regional Puppy Instructor Jobs

At Guiding Eyes for the Blind, we are passionate about connecting exceptional dogs with individuals for greater independence. Guiding Eyes for the Blind is dedicated to creating and supporting life-changing connections between people and dogs.
At our facilities we breed, raise, and train exceptional dogs. Then we connect them to people who are seeking increased freedom and independence, so that together, they can experience all kinds of life adventures. Do you want to play a role in that adventure?
As a Regional Puppy Instructor, you will provide direct support and guidance for puppy raising activities undertaken by youth and adult volunteers, and actively recruits volunteers to assist Guiding Eyes with raising guide dog puppies. Works directly with volunteers to plan and evaluate the progress of pups on program and provides instructional training to the raisers. This individual will also have the ability to demonstrate, understand and apply the values of Guiding Eyes for the Blind.
This position is based out of Richmond, Virginia, and covers the surrounding areas north and south of Richmond, and parts of Prince William County.
The Role

• Represent Guiding Eyes at different social events
• Develop and maintain puppy raising regions according to the goals and needs of the organization; including maintaining region goal numbers for pups on program
• Maintain supply inventory and budget for assigned region
• Provide direct supervision and development of volunteer Region Coordinators and raisers
• Perform other duties and projects as assigned
• Teach regular group puppy and young adult dog training classes which will require working evenings and weekends
• Provide written reports for puppies evaluated in the field
• Provide routine behavioral support to regional volunteers with assistance from the Regional Puppy Managers and other technical advisors
• Oversee the application process to ensure quality puppy raising environments
• Evaluate puppies and provide follow-up as needed to ensure proper development of puppies
• Coordinate travel for puppies and young adult dogs

Qualifications You Will Need

• Clear and professional communication skills; excellent presentation abilities
• Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office programs; Salesforce savvy a plus
• Physically able to lift up 50 pounds as well as manage large, exuberant adolescent dogs
• Guiding Eyes requires all new hires to be fully vaccinated as a condition of employment
• Minimum 2 years teaching experience in a group setting; ability to instruct in both group and one-on-one settings
• Strong relationship-builder with the ability to find a common purpose, build consensus and strengthen collaboration; excellent people, teaching and team-building skills
• Solid understanding of puppy training and socialization; positive dog training techniques and behavior modification
• Must have a valid driver’s license
• Prior experience working and managing in a team environment
• Ability to accurately assess situations and make quick, sound judgements independently
• College degree preferred, ideally with a concentration in Animal Behavior, Psychology, or Education/Teaching
• Able to withstand being on your feet for 1.5 hours at a time in addition to repetitive bending, stooping, kneeling and squatting
• Self-driven and disciplined, yet flexible; able to work in a dynamic, fast paced and ever-changing environment; ability to work independently
• Outstanding organizational, logistical, strategic, and planning abilities

Travel Requirements

• Willing to transport puppies or dogs to the various regions or events
• Up to one week at a time, several times a year
• Willing to fly or drive within the United States

Guiding Eyes for the Blind offers a comprehensive benefits package including:

• Competitive and generous healthcare (Medical/Dental/Vision)
• Paid Time Off and Holidays
• 403(b)
• Life Insurance

Pay Range $50k - $55k. The provided compensation range is based on industry standards and salary determinations will be made based on numerous factors.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER M/F, D/V
Must be authorized to work in the United States