• Ongoing full-time position within our growing team
• Unique role with one of Australia’s most reputable charities
• CBD location with some local travel required

About Guide Dogs SA/NT

 At Guide Dogs SA/NT we use our expertise in dogs and vision to promote independence, participation, inclusion and wellbeing for people with low vision, blindness or specialised support needs.

About the role

The position of Puppy Raising Advisor has become available on a full-time ongoing basis.

The Puppy Raising Advisor is responsible for supporting and developing the skills of puppy raising volunteers; enabling them to train and socialise our puppies in preparation for Guide Dog or Assistance Dog training. You will assess and monitor the development, temperament and health of pups through each stage of the puppy raising program.

This is a rewarding role and requires the successful applicant to demonstrate initiative and high-level communication, coaching and interpersonal skills to build trusted relationships with volunteers and other key stakeholders.

The role is also responsible for ensuring the appropriate care of dogs, including feeding, watering and toileting, to maintain the kennel environment at a high level of hygiene and to ensure the physical and temperamental wellbeing, and security of all assigned dogs in the Training Kennels.

Key responsibilities include:

• Assist in the recruitment of Puppy Raising Volunteers in partnership with the HR team and in line with organisational policies, procedures and systems.
• Work closely with GDS staff to determine suitable training and placement of dogs.
• Assess the ongoing development of pups/dogs and identify issues relating to pups/dogs' health, development or behaviour. Make recommendations, resolve and /or refer as required.
• Maintain effective puppy records.

About You

Essential to the role is a qualification in canine behaviour and training and/or vet nursing, with a proven ability to support and educate adults.

You will bring to this role:

• Open-mindedness with energy and enthusiasm for continuous learning.
• Confidence in collaborating and proactive problem solving.
• High self-motivation and ability to work autonomously.
• Ability to contribute as a productive team member.

Your confidence with both dogs and people will be invaluable, as will your knowledge and understanding of canine temperament, health and wellbeing and learning and developmental processes. You will have previous experience in canine training and a willingness to follow Guide Dogs SA/NT training best practice principles.

Submitting and maintaining a current Driver’s Licence, Police and DHS clearances is a condition of employment.

Learn more

For a complete description of the role’s key responsibilities and requirements, please review the Position Description.

For a confidential discussion please speak with Cindy Chewter, Dog Services Operations Manager (08) 8203 8303 or Sharon Fear, Human Resources Business Partner (08) 8203 8328

Please ensure your application addresses the requirements of the role as described in the Position Description and enter your details below to apply.

Applications will close at 9am on Wednesday 25 September 2024.