Autism Dog Trainer. South-West. Irlanda

Mind and Body Safety Solutions Limited, Rathcormac, Cork, is seeking an Autism Dog Trainer and Wellness Officer with experience in assistance dog training, disability services, support and wellness training for families with a neurodivergent child.  

The ideal candidate will have a Master’s Degree in Mental Health or Social Work or 10 years experience in the Social Work sector and a minimum of 2 years experience in Dog Training and Handling. The role is initially for a 24-month period with a 39-hour week and a salary of €34,000  per year.

Position Summary:

Working with families to establish if the pet dog in the home has the capacity to be  trained to provide support for their child on the ASD spectrum.

Providing training for pet dogs to support children on the spectrum include training to family members on how to handle the dogs and how to follow up  with training and reinforce skills taught in class.

Assistance in finding sponsorship for families who do not have the funds to pay for the training themselves (there is some interest in this by local community bodies).

Providing training courses and wellness programmes to large multinational corporations  where contracts arise.  

Other duties relating to training and wellness as may be assigned.

Essential Skills:

Minimum of 3 years of experience working as an Assistance Dog Handler/Trainer.

Experience in Social Work and working with children on the ASD spectrum and their families.

Master’s Degree in Psychology or Social Work or a minimum 10 years of experience  within the Mental Health sector.

Minimum 5 years’ experience in Certified International Mental Health Training Programs.  

Minimum 5 years’ experience in Front Line Counselling. Extensive knowledge of local supports to refer clients appropriately.

Level 8 Degree in related field of one or more of the above-mentioned skills.

Ability to work independently and within a team.

Minimum of intermediate skills using Microsoft Office, website, social media and other computer skills as needed.

Responsible for all financials of the organisation.

Excellent communication and networking skills.

Access to a vehicle for extensive travel.

Other duties as assigned.