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Guide Dog Mobility Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Accounting Manager

San Rafael, CA · On-site

$129K - $143K/yr

As the largest guide dog school in North America, we have graduated more than 16,000 guide dog teams from across the U.S. and Canada since our founding in 1942. GDB not only improves mobility for our ...

Chemistry Instructor-Adjunct

Auburn, WA · On-site

$101.95 - $113.93/hr

Adjunct instructors are appointed quarter to quarter based on student enrollment. We are looking ... guide dog or service animal. Green River College prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex ...

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Guide Dog Mobility Instructor information

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How much do guide dog mobility instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for guide dog mobility instructor in the United States is $20.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $21.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Guide Dog Mobility Instructor vs Orientation and Mobility Specialist?

AspectGuide Dog Mobility InstructorOrientation and Mobility Specialist
CredentialsGuide Dog Mobility Instructor certification, often from accredited programsCPM or COMS certification, with orientation and mobility training
Work EnvironmentTraining centers, client homes, outdoor environments with guide dogsSchools, rehabilitation centers, urban and rural outdoor settings
Employer & IndustryGuide dog schools, nonprofits, specialized training organizationsRehabilitation agencies, schools for the visually impaired, government programs

Guide Dog Mobility Instructors focus on training individuals to use guide dogs safely and effectively, primarily working with guide dogs and their handlers. Orientation and Mobility Specialists provide broader mobility training for visually impaired clients, including cane skills and spatial awareness. While both roles require similar certifications and work with visually impaired individuals, their focus areas and environments differ significantly.

How much do training guide dogs pay?

Guide dog mobility instructors typically earn between $30,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. The role often requires specialized training, certification, and skills in animal handling and instruction.

What are some common challenges faced by Guide Dog Mobility Instructors, and how can they be addressed?

Guide Dog Mobility Instructors often encounter challenges such as matching the right dog to the right client, adapting training methods to suit individual needs, and managing the emotional aspects of working with clients who may have varying levels of confidence and mobility. Overcoming these challenges requires patience, strong communication skills, and the ability to problem-solve on the spot. Building a trusting relationship with both the dog and the client is crucial, as is staying current with best practices in guide dog training and client instruction.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Guide Dog Mobility Instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Guide Dog Mobility Instructor, you need expertise in dog training, knowledge of orientation and mobility principles, and often a relevant certification such as from the International Guide Dog Federation. Familiarity with canine behavior assessment tools and specialized training equipment is essential. Strong communication, patience, and empathy are crucial for building rapport with visually impaired clients and ensuring successful dog-handler partnerships. These skills are vital to promote safe, independent mobility and enhance the quality of life for those relying on guide dogs.

How do I become a guide dog mobility specialist?

To become a guide dog mobility instructor, individuals typically complete specialized training programs offered by guide dog schools, which include instruction in dog handling, mobility techniques, and client training. Certification from recognized organizations and experience with dog training or mobility assistance are often required to qualify for this role.

Can you make 6 figures as a dog trainer?

Guide Dog Mobility Instructors typically do not earn six-figure salaries, as their pay is often based on experience, location, and employer. While some experienced trainers or those running their own businesses can reach higher income levels, most earn below six figures annually. Advanced certifications and specialized skills can improve earning potential in the field.

What are Guide Dog Mobility Instructors?

Guide Dog Mobility Instructors are professionals who train guide dogs to assist people who are blind or visually impaired. They also work directly with clients to teach them how to handle and work with their new guide dog, ensuring both the dog's training and the client's safety and independence. The role involves assessing the needs of individuals, customizing training programs, and providing support throughout the partnership between the guide dog and the handler. Instructors play a crucial part in improving the mobility and quality of life for people with visual impairments.

How much do guide dog mobility instructors make?

Guide dog mobility instructors typically earn between $30,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. The role often requires specialized training and certification, which can influence salary levels.
More about Guide Dog Mobility Instructor jobs
What cities are hiring for Guide Dog Mobility Instructor jobs? Cities with the most Guide Dog Mobility Instructor job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Guide Dog Mobility Instructor jobs? The top employers for Guide Dog Mobility Instructor jobs are:
What states have the most Guide Dog Mobility Instructor jobs? States with the most job openings for Guide Dog Mobility Instructor jobs include:
Infographic showing various Guide Dog Mobility Instructor job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 90% Full Time, and 9% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,849 per year, or $20.6 per hour.
Facilities Technician - Electrical/HVAC

Facilities Technician - Electrical/HVAC

Guide Dogs for the Blind

San Rafael, CA • On-site

$33 - $36/hr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Description
Your Electrical & HVAC maintenance expertise can support the infrastructure of a great mission.
At Guide Dogs for the Blind, our Facilities team plays a vital role in keeping our campuses operating optimally and efficiently. As a Facilities Technician at our beautiful San Rafael campus, you'll use your electrical and HVAC experience working alongside our skilled team to maintain and repair the buildings, equipment, vehicles, and grounds that support our life-changing mission. This role offers the opportunity to work closely with staff, volunteers, vendors and members of the public, highlighting your excellent communication and customer service skills. This full-time role offers both variety and stability, with no night shifts and only occasional weekend work.
What you'll do:
  • Perform advanced repairs, maintenance, and diagnostic tasks, especially within your area of expertise
  • Use your strong diagnostic skills to identify and help resolve system issues
  • Maintain and repair critical infrastructure systems that keep our campus running
  • Work closely with the Facilities Manager and team members on projects and preventative maintenance
  • Estimate costs and materials for projects and coordinate with contractors when needed
  • Order supplies, prioritize work orders, and ensure compliance with safety standards and regulations

What you'll love:
  • A variety of systems and facilities to work on, in a unique campus setting that includes administrative offices, a large kennel complex, veterinary clinic, residence hall, and a commercial kitchen
  • A supportive, collaborative team that values training and growth, including help obtaining licenses
  • Monday-Friday schedule with some weekends and on-call shifts, plus a generous benefits package
  • Working collaboratively across all areas of the organization, interacting daily with other staff, volunteers, clients, vendors and members of the public.
  • The unique perk of being able to bring your dog to work

The qualifications you'll need:
  • Minimum 2+ years of experience in electrical or HVAC maintenance, experience working with low voltage systems and schematics a plus
  • Valid driver's license and insurability at non-risk rates
  • Proficiency using specialty meters and testing devices as well as lifts and power tools
  • Strong communication skills, both oral and written, as well as excellent customer service skills

Guide Dogs for the Blind
At Guide Dogs for the Blind (GDB), we believe that everyone deserves to move through the world safely and confidently - to live the life they want to live. As the largest guide dog school in North America, we have graduated more than 16,000 guide dog teams from across the U.S. and Canada since our founding in 1942. GDB not only improves mobility for our clients, we further inclusion. Join our team of more than 300 employees and share your passion for our mission.
At Guide Dogs for the Blind, we respect, value, and appreciate all differences. We welcome all qualified candidates irrespective of your race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, marital status, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. Individuals with disabilities, especially those who are blind or visually impaired, are encouraged to apply. If you have a disability and need assistance and/or accommodation with applying for a job, please feel free to contact Human Resources.
This is a full-time, non-exempt role and is on-site in San Rafael
Salary Range: $33 - $36/hour