Service Dog Instructor (Burnaby) | Accepting Applications

Overview

Are you ready to embark on a journey where every wag of a tail makes a difference? At Pacific Assistance Dogs Society (PADS), we’re dedicated to changing lives, one dog at a time. We’re currently seeking a passionate and skilled individual to join us as an Instructor, helping us fulfill our mission of providing assistance dogs to our waiting clients.

ABOUT US

We’re an organization driven by passionate people – that change lives every single day. We expect excellence of ourselves and our team, but we have fun too. PADS breeds, raises and trains fully certified assistance dogs. Our service (mobility & PTSD) and hearing dogs provide life-changing independence to those with disabilities other than blindness. Our accredited facility dogs work with community professionals, such as teachers, RCMP and psychologists to help support wellness in our community.

We’re proud of the fact that we were the first fully accredited member of Assistance Dogs International in Canada.

ABOUT OUR TRAINING PHILOSOPHY

PADS’ training philosophy is relationship centered, and based on current, evidence-based training methods and follows a Least Invasive Minimally Aversive (LIMA) approach. PADS Trainers teach sitters the skills they need to teach their advanced dogs in the area of Skills, Manners and Socialization. PADS Trainers teach clients how to follow the LIMA principles when working with their canine partners.

 

ABOUT THE POSITION

As a Service Dog Instructor, you’ll play a vital role in our training program, assisting with the training of adult dogs and supporting our team in making successful placements with clients. You’ll be responsible for the care and training of a cohort of approximately 6 dogs, working closely with volunteers and adhering to our training protocols.

WHAT YOU’LL DO

  • Train and care for a cohort of approximately 6 dogs, as well as the volunteers that support them.
  • Maintain accurate training records and assist with assessments to ensure dogs are a fit for our program.
  • Participate in grooming, medical care, and transportation of dogs to various locations.
  • Support administrative tasks, attend meetings, and engage in public education efforts.
  • Support the assignment of duties to Service Dog Program staff (Kennel Coordinator, Admin staff, Apprentice Trainers, etc) in cooperation with the Program Team Lead
  • Participate in teaching Instructors Assistance (IA), Apprentice Trainers, Sitters, and volunteers who support the care and training of canines at PADS
  • Complete pre-placement tests on string of dogs to ensure readiness for placement
  • Prepare training files once dogs have successfully completed pre-placement testing
  • Review client applications, participate in interviews, draft and submit all related forms and documents with recommended match
  • Teach team trainings for clients including practical and online theoretical

WORKING CONDITIONS

  • This role requires lifting 50-70lb dogs and walkng 4-6km/day while exercising or training dogs
  • Expect some physical tasks and outdoor work
  • The position can be based out of our Burnaby, BC Campus with occasional off-site training.
  • Regular interaction with dogs and clients, requiring sensory attention and awareness.

 

QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS

  • Has successfully completed an apprenticeship program at an ADI accredited organization.
  • A combination of skills is essential including knowledge and basic experience in canine learning theory including canine behaviour, general health care and safety, knowledge of canine nutrition, anatomy and physiology
  • Working knowledge of adult education and demonstrated skill for teaching adults

 

WORKING CONDITIONS & COMPENSATION

Location: Burnaby, BC
Employment Type: Full-time 
Work Arrangement: Hybrid in-person/remote position with indoor and outdoor work. 
Hours: Monday to Friday, 7.5 hours per day, with the requirement of working one evening per week, and occasional additional evenings and weekends. 

Compensation: $65,000 based on a 37.5 hour work week. A benefits package is available after the 3-month probation period.  

BE YOU. WITH US.  

We serve communities that are greater and stronger because of their diversity. What makes YOU different is worth both celebrating and cultivating.   

PADS is committed to equality across race, gender, age, religion, identity, ability, and experience. We invite you to bring your whole self to our team, helping us to change lives, one dog — and person — at a time.   

DOES THIS SOUND LIKE A GOOD FIT?

If you are a dedicated individual with a passion for helping others and a desire to grow your skills in a supportive environment, we encourage you to apply!  Submit your CV and cover letter via the form below.

Accommodation will be provided in all parts of the hiring process. Applicants are invited to make required accommodations known in advance.      

We thank all applicants for their interest and will contact only those applicants selected for further consideration. Please note that submissions will be reviewed on an ongoing basis, and therefore early submission is encouraged. The position is available immediately.    

 

 

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