Service Dog Apprentice Instructor (America's VetDogs)

Position Title: Service Dog Apprentice Instructor, Smithtown, NY (Full-Time) Overall Summary Join our team and embark on a transformative journey as a Service Dog Apprentice Instructor! Under the mentorship of our Program Education Manager or a Qualified Service Dog Instructor, you will play an instrumental role in shaping the lives of veterans and first responders living with disabilities. As an Apprentice, you will have the unique opportunity to master the art and science of training impeccable “class-ready” service dogs and teach clients to confidently navigate the world with their new canine partner. Our hands‑on program will empower you to build safe and effective service dog teams, making a lasting impact on the lives of those you serve. Your learning journey will span three fulfilling years, where you will be immersed in rigorous educational and practical coursework, designed to hone your skills as an exemplary instructor. Throughout your apprenticeship, you’ll be evaluated through quizzes, quality assurance final skills testing with your trained dogs, and comprehensive qualification exams, encompassing written, practical, and oral assessments at the conclusion of the apprenticeship. With a program that surpasses the educational standards set by both the International Guide Dog Federation and Assistance Dogs International, you can rest assured that you will be receiving top‑tier training that will equip you to make a real difference. If you are passionate about making a positive impact, dedicated to continuous learning, and eager to join a supportive team that values your growth, apply to be a part of our America’s VetDogs Apprentice Program today. Let’s change lives together! Key Responsibilities Implements America’s VetDogs techniques for dog care and kennel maintenance. Provides accurate written training progress reports on each dog within their training string. Effectively provides oral reports to superiors on all aspects of training, classwork and fieldwork. Trains strings of “class-ready” dogs up to organizational standards with decreasing supervision throughout the progression of the apprenticeship. Instructs clients how to effectively and independently work with class-ready dogs. Alone or in tandem, conducts graduate follow‑up visits and assists applicant interviews and visits rehabilitation agencies as needed. Provides Consumer Services with accurate reports on each applicant interview and graduate visit. Represents the Guide Dog Foundation/America’s VetDogs outside of the organization through speaking engagements, graduations, tours, and conventions in a positive and effective way. Participate in marketing and media initiatives. Adheres to our organization’s safety policies and procedures and encourages others to do the same. Promptly reports incidents and accidents according to Foundation’s procedures. Undertakes other duties as assigned. Qualifications Excellent interpersonal and communication skills. Two or more years of college level courses in animal husbandry, physical education, psychology, teaching and allied fields, preferred. Must have a valid driver’s license in good standing and be able to travel throughout the US to perform home/military base trainings or aftercare visits. Must have authorization to work in the United States. Must have or obtain passport for international travel when required. Must be capable of working weekends and holidays, in the event that a placement is scheduled, or assisting with a special event. Must be willing to attend training seminars and receive additional certifications in the service dog field. Must be capable of maintaining a string of dogs which includes walking a minimum of 2 miles per day. Must be able to withstand repeated bending, stooping, kneeling and squatting. Self‑starter with ability to lead others and work independently. Work weekends, evenings and holidays including overnights in student residence or on the road as needed. High school diploma or equivalent. Physical Demands Must safely handle a variety of large breed dogs, weighing up to 85 pounds with varying strength and manageability. Able to pick up a 70‑85 pound dog in an emergency. Able to withstand repetitive bending, stooping, kneeling and squatting. Visual Acuity Near acuity and accommodation are required for ability to see and read dog’s reaction to environment and distractions, ability to watch student give commands, ability to read forms, documentation and computer screen. Hearing Ability Ability to interact with dog, trainers, students and volunteers either in an informal way or giving formal instruction through seminar and training exercises. Ability to hear above traffic and other outside noises. Working Conditions The employee is subject to daily outside elements, traffic, subway, train station, and airport noise levels as well as inside kennel noise. Employee is exposed to cleaning and antibacterial solutions in kennel. Employee is also exposed to animal dander and hair in confined areas such as vans and kennels. Employee is expected to drive large training vans to training destinations. Additional Information The starting hourly rate for the position is $24.51 per hour. We offer a comprehensive benefits program which includes an outstanding 403(b) plan, health, dental, vision, and life and disability insurance, and generous paid time off.

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