Director of Canine Development Operations (Canine Development Center)

At Guiding Eyes for the Blind, we are passionate about connecting exceptional dogs with individuals seeking greater independence. We are dedicated to creating and supporting life-changing partnerships between people and dogs.
At our facilities, we breed, raise, and train exceptional guide dogs – and match them with individuals ready to embrace a life of greater freedom, confidence, and possibility. Together, they embark on incredible life adventures. Are you ready to play a role in that journey? Join us and help be a part of transforming lives.
Our incredible dogs make our mission possible – and working with them will inspire you! We put our clients first, striving to exceed their expectations by providing exceptional dogs trained to meet their unique needs and empower them to live the lives they choose.
The Director of Canine Development Operations leads the Canine Development Center (CDC), providing strategic and operational oversight of breeding and whelping operations, kennel management, brood and stud dog programs, and canine care services. This role is responsible for ensuring exceptional animal welfare, operational excellence, and a safe, enriching environment that helps ensure each dog has the best possible start on the path to becoming a guide dog.
The Director serves as a critical partner to teams across Guiding Eyes, ensuring CDC operations effectively support canine development goals while maintaining the highest standards of animal welfare and care. Working collaboratively with veterinary, puppy development, training, volunteer, and foster program teams, the Director helps ensure a seamless continuum of care and supports organizational goals through effective partnership, planning, and execution.
Through strong leadership and a commitment to excellence, the Director plays a critical role in maintaining the foundation upon which successful canine development programs are built.
At Guiding Eyes, you'll work alongside passionate, caring professionals who are united by a love of dogs and a shared commitment to our mission. Together, we help provide each dog with the foundation needed to succeed while supporting the individuals whose lives will be changed by their partnership.
If you're looking for meaningful work in a collaborative and purpose-driven environment, we'd love to hear from you.
The Role
Operational Leadership & Kennel Management
Oversee breeding and whelping kennel operations, ensuring exceptional care for puppies and adult dogs.
Establish and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) for animal care, sanitation, safety, and operational efficiency.
Ensure appropriate staffing plans, scheduling, and coverage to support continuous 24/7 operations and exceptional care for all dogs at the CDC.
Monitor operational performance metrics, including health outcomes, puppy development milestones, and operational efficiency.
Oversee facility maintenance, and vendor relationships to support a safe, effective, and welcoming kennel environment.
Canine Care & Program Oversight
Oversee brood and stud dog programs, including placement, support, enrichment, and quality-of-life initiatives.
Oversee whelping and neonatal care programs, ensuring alignment with animal welfare standards and organizational protocols.
Oversee home litter care and foster programs, supporting positive outcomes for puppies, volunteers, and foster caregivers.
Partner with canine development teams to understand and support puppy development and transition processes.
Maintain a working knowledge of puppy development, socialization, enrichment, evaluation, and placement readiness programs to support continuity of care and effective cross-functional collaboration.
Promote coordination across canine care programs to support organizational goals and successful canine outcomes.
Support volunteer engagement within CDC operations while maintaining high standards of animal care and safety.
Animal Welfare & Quality Standards
Champion best-in-class animal welfare, husbandry, enrichment, and care practices.
Partner with veterinary and training teams to align health, welfare, care, and developmental protocols.
Monitor and evaluate canine health, behavior, and welfare outcomes to identify opportunities for enhancement.
Ensure adherence to organizational policies, animal welfare standards, applicable regulations, and recognized industry best practices.
Drive continuous improvement efforts that enhance canine welfare, operational efficiency, and program outcomes.
Leadership & Team Development
Lead, coach, and develop managers and staff across CDC operations.
Build and maintain a high-performing team through effective communication, accountability, and professional development.