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Job Title


Assistance Dog Instructor (Team Leader)


Company : INTERNATIONAL GUIDE DOG FEDERATION


Location : WA, Australia


Created : 2026-04-30


Job Type : Full Time


Job Description

Location: Perth, Western Australia (Australia) Job Type: Full time Deadline: May 23, 2026 Job Description Phone: +61 8 62224905 Email: [email protected] At Guide Dogs WA, youll be part of a passionate, purpose driven organisation that is committed to empowering people with disability. Youll contribute to programs that make a real and lasting difference throughout Western Australia. As a senior member of our Assistance and Facility Dog team, you will provide professional dog training services while offering leadership, coaching and technical guidance to a team of Instructors, Trainers and Handlers. Key responsibilities Delivering high quality Assistance Dog services to clients across WA Assessing, training and matching dogs to eligible clients Conducting centre-based and domiciliary Client Training Programs Managing a client caseload Supporting the development and continuous improvement of our expanding programs Assess, train and condition Assistance and Facility Dogs in accordance with recognised standards (including ADI and GDWA), focusing on behaviour, obedience, and task-specific performance outcomes Conduct behavioural assessments of dogs at intake and throughout training to evaluate suitability for Assistance Dog roles Develop and implement individualised training programs to prepare dogs for placement, including socialisation, obedience, and specialised task training Monitor and evaluate dog progress against defined training milestones and adjust training techniques to achieve optimal outcomes Match trained dogs with suitable clients based on behavioural traits, temperament, and client needs Deliver structured training to clients in handling and working effectively with Assistance Dogs in both centre-based and domiciliary environments Maintain the health and welfare of dogs by monitoring condition and referring for veterinary assessment where required Apply contemporary animal training methodologies and maintain current knowledge of industry standards, practices, and relevant legislation Provide technical guidance and mentoring to junior trainers to support consistent application of training techniques and standards Assist in coordinating training schedules, dog allocations, and workloads to support efficient program delivery Maintain accurate records of dog training progress, behavioural assessments, and client interactions in organisational systems Support the development and continuous improvement of Assistance and Facility Dog training programs and services Promote safe handling practices and ensure compliance with workplace health and safety requirements in all training activities Represent the organisation in community settings where required, in relation to Assistance Dog training and awareness About You Proven leadership, coaching and team management experience Recognised qualification in Assistance Dog Training and Instruction Highly developed interpersonal and communication skills (written and verbal) Strong understanding of Assistance Dog theory, training practices and relevant legislation Excellent planning, organisation and stress management skills Knowledge of community resources supporting people with disability or illness Ability to meet the physical demands and inherent requirements of the role Ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team Understanding of the personal impact of disability or illness Proficiency with Microsoft Office programs Desirable Experience with public presentations Broad experience across ADI accredited organisations Background in teaching or training with adults or children Required compliance documents National Police Clearance NDIS Worker Screening Check Valid Drivers Licence Recognised qualification in Assistance Dog Training and Instruction Benefits Up to 3 days additional paid leave during year-end holiday season Salary packaging, an opportunity to increase your take-home pay 17.5% annual leave loading, where applicable Free parking and easy public transport access Free on-site gym facilities Culture that values flexibility and supports worklife balance Ongoing professional development and training Employee Assistance Program We encourage people with disability and of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander background to apply. Everyone is welcome, as we are an inclusive and diverse workplace. #J-18808-Ljbffr