Location: Perth, Western Australia (Australia)
Job Type: Full time
Deadline: May 23, 2026
Job Description
Phone: +61 8 62224905
Email: susan.king@guidedogswa.com.au
At Guide Dogs WA, you'll be part of a passionate, purpose driven organisation that is committed to empowering people with disability. You'll 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 Driver's 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 work–life 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.
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