Braille Transcriber

BERKELEY UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT; Berkeley (CA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

CalPERS

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Job summary

Berkeley Unified School District is seeking a dedicated Braille Transcription Technician to support visually impaired students in instructional settings. You will translate and transcribe materials into Braille, prepare tactile graphics, and operate embossing equipment, while safeguarding student confidentiality and aligning with IEP goals.

Responsibilities include coordinating with Teachers of the Visually Impaired and other staff, maintaining inventories of Braille materials, and assisting in

Qualifications

• Graduation from high school or equivalent.
• Completion of a minimum of ten modules toward Literary Braille Certification.
• Experience with Braille translation and transcription.
• Familiarity with Braille translation software (e.g., Duxbury).
• Ability to read and write Braille and work with assistive technology.

Responsibilities

• Translate and transcribe Braille materials and prepare tactile graphics.
• Assist with instruction and reinforcement of lessons for visually impaired students.
• Operate Braille embossing equipment and related tools.
• Coordinate with Teachers of the Visually Impaired and staff on IEP goals.
• Maintain inventory of Braille books and instructional materials.

Skills

Braille translation

Braille transcription

Assistive technology

IEP goals

Student support

Education

High school diploma

Braille Certification coursework

Tools

Braille embosser

Duxbury Braille Translator

Braille code charts

Job description

Basic Function and Representative Duties
PLEASE NOTE: This position does not offer Remote Employment. BASIC FUNCTION:
Under the direction of an Administrator, assist in reinforcing instruction to individual or small groups of students who are visually impaired, in a classroom or other learning environment by performing a variety of alternate media translation and transcription functions and activities; implementing a standardized procedure for alternate media production; make appropriate compliance and copyright decisions based on AB 422 for the production of alternative media; perform routine clerical and supportive tasks for instructional personnel; locate, order and receive alternate media and other instructional materials; acquisition and distribution of E-text, Braille transcription, large print, and/or alternative media of instructional materials to students who are visually impaired.

Representative Duties

ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

• Assist and interact with students using Braille and related materials including assistive technologies for the Blind; perform Braille translation and transcription of printed material and oral instructions; determine appropriate format and prepare a variety of instructional support materials using established National Federation of the Blind Braille Translation Guidelines; translate print using Braille translation software and hardware; format and edit Braille transcription; produce tactile graphics, and supervise embossing and binding tasks to complete final product; utilize a Braille code form to transcribe Braille material using a computer, hand stylus and Braille typewriter; foster independence of students who are visually impaired
• Assist Teacher of the Visually Impaired and/or other service providers in reinforcing instruction to the individual student or small groups of visually impaired students in a classroom or other learning environment; monitor and reinforce student drills, practices and assignments in various subjects; assist Teacher of the Visually Impaired, classroom teacher and/or other service providers with the implementation of IEP goals.
• Confer with the instructional staff of the visually impaired, classroom teacher, and/or other service providers concerning adapting lesson plans and materials to meet student needs. Troubleshooting problems with technology, formatting issues when translating print to Braille, adapting math, science, music, board work, and other spatial materials to a tactile format, and strategies for intervention.
• Perform routine clerical duties in support of educational activities such as preparing, keyboarding, duplicating, enlarging and ordering materials designed for students who are visually impaired; assist in filing, organizing and maintaining inventory of materials related to visually impaired instructional activities; maintain routine records and student files as assigned; distribute and collect adapted student assignments, documents, and various forms as assigned
• Prepare copies of tests, study materials, textbooks, charts and others for students who are visually impaired; operate specialized equipment to enlarge, copy and record instructional materials, computer enhance instructional materials to alternate media; provide print interlining of student Braille material.
• Assist students with meeting individual education goals and objectives; report progress regarding student performance and behavior.
• Help student access information from the board/overhead by copying onto paper or whiteboard, making a Braille copy, reading to the student, pairing with peers.)
• Supervise correct use of specialized equipment and assistive technology, such as computer and iPad with voice-output, manual and electronic Braille writing and reading devices, abacus, magnification devices and software applications.
• Support visually impaired student, but promote independence by facilitating problem-solving, stepping back and allowing student to act with indirect prompting.
• Monitor and interact with students during outdoor, physical education and other recreational activities as directed, to insure safety and independence.
• Escort students during the regular duty day to and from designated locations; accompany students on field trips, recreational functions, social events and during outdoor activities as directed when necessary.
• Assist in maintaining the health and safety of students by following the health and safety practices and procedures
• Assist in maintaining a learning environment in a safe, orderly and clean manner; provide classroom support by setting up adaptive equipment in work areas and distributing and collecting adaptive paper, supplies and materials.
• Receive and distribute a variety of books and instructional materials from local or national sources utilized for students who are visually impaired ; ensure materials are received and returned as necessary; maintain appropriate inventory of books, supplies and materials applicable to the program; locate, order and received Braille and other instructional materials for students who are visually impaired
• Work with Teachers of the Visually Impaired, librarians, and online publishers to obtain E- text or alternative media for students' use; catalog E-text, maintain a database of holdings, maintain and upload E-text into server for future use by eligible students
• Maintain confidentiality of student information in accordance with state and federal mandates
• Operate a variety of office and classroom equipment including a copier, bookbinder, Braille embosser, computer and software, as appropriate; ensure visually impaired tools are accessible to students, including CCTV, slant boards, monocular, abacus, iPad, Braille technology, and other materials
• Respond to student medical emergencies according to District protocol and prepare related paperwork as appropriate

Other Duties

Perform related duties as assigned

Knowledge and Abilities

Basic Unified English Braille code, Nemeth Braille Code of Mathematics, Braille textbook format code and foreign language Braille code

Methods of preparing tactile aids such as maps, graphs, and charts

Perkins Braillewriter, specialized Braille software, and Braille embosser

Filing methods and record maintenance systems

Braille Transcription Techniques

• Ability to read and write basic literary Braille (Gr. 1) = alphabet and numerals only.
• Ability to use a Braille "contraction chart" for Gr. 2 literary Braille = 2nd level of Braille using 100+ contractions.
• Ability to interline Braille student work, using Braille contraction chart as needed.
• Knowledge of Basic Elementary Arithmetic Level Braille (Nemeth Code)
• Create simple tactile graphics (raised lines for drawings, charts, tables)
• Basic knowledge of accessible technology for the visually impaired
• (For example: Operating screen-reader software on a Windows computer; knowledge of accessibility options on classroom computers, refreshable Braille display)

Braille Translation Software Skills

(Using Windows computer with software such as Duxbury)

• Ability to use 6-key input on a computer to produce math
• Willingness to receive training in basic functions of Braille translation software for simple literary materials.

Proper operation and use of Braille and large print transcription equipment and machines

Concerns and challenges of students who are visually impaired

Guidance principles and practices related to students who are visually impaired

Basic subjects taught in local schools, including arithmetic, grammar, spelling, language and reading

Basic instructional methods and techniques

Correct English usage, grammar, spelling, punctuation and vocabulary

Classroom procedures and appropriate student conduct

Safe practices in classroom and playground activities

Operation of standard office and classroom equipment including a computer

Oral and written communication skills

Interpersonal skills using tact, patience and professionalism

Basic record‑keeping

Ability To

• Perform a variety of Braille translation and transcription functions and activities
• Assist with instruction and related activities in a classroom or assigned learning environment
• Reinforce instruction to individual or small groups of students with special needs as directed by the teachers and/or other service providers
• Assist in the preparation of instructional materials and implementation of lesson plans
• Perform routine clerical duties including keyboarding, filing, and duplicating materials
• Understand and relate to students with special needs and respect individual differences
• Establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships with others
• Communicate effectively both orally and in writing
• Demonstrate an understanding, patient and receptive attitude toward visually impaired students
• Read books to students and assist with reading and writing activities
• Understand and follow oral and written instructions
• Operate standard office and classroom equipment including a computer,
• Observe health and safety regulations

Education, Experience And Other Requirements

Any combination equivalent to: graduation from high school; two year demonstrated experience in Braille translation, large print and other alternate media translation, and varied clerical experience; and completion of a minimum of ten modules leading towards Literary Braille Certification issued by the Library of Congress.

Licenses And Other Requirements

• Valid First Aid and CPR certificates issued by an authorized agency preferred
• Valid California Driver's license preferred
• Incumbents must meet requirements specified under the No Child Left Behind Act
• Some incumbents in this classification may be required to speak, read and write in a designated second language

Working Conditions and Additional Information

Environment

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Classroom and other indoor and outdoor learning environments

Physical Demands

Dexterity of hands and fingers to operate standard office and classroom equipment

Sitting or standing for extended periods of time

Bending at the waist and/or kneeling to assist students

Seeing to read a variety of materials and monitor student activities

Hearing and speaking to exchange information

Hazards

Contact with dissatisfied, assaultive or abusive individuals

Potential physical hazards involved in intervening in fights and other anti‑social, and violent behaviors Exposure to bloodborne pathogens and infectious diseases

Examination Information

The first step is an application screening to determine whether applicants meet the minimum qualifications listed in the job description.

Qualified applicants will be invited to participate in the following two‑part examination process:

First Examination: Training and Experience Assessment - Qualifying Pass/Fail

The Training and Experience (T&E) assessment will evaluate each candidate’s complete application, including employment history, education, training, and responses to the required supplemental questions. The supplemental questions align with the approved duties and qualifications for the position.

Candidates must receive a Pass rating on the T&E assessment to proceed to the second examination.

Second Examination: 100% of Final Examination Score

Candidates who pass the T&E assessment will be invited to participate in a second examination. The second exam may consist of a written exam, an oral exam, a performance exam, a structured interview (SI), or a qualification appraisal interview (QAI).

The second examination will determine 100% of the candidate’s numerical examination score and placement on the eligibility list.

The passing score will be set between 50 and 99, under the direction of the Personnel Director, based on factors specific to the examination and recruitment. Once established, the passing score will be applied uniformly to all candidates.

EXAMINATION WEIGHT

FIRST EXAMINATION: T&E — Qualifying Pass/Fail

SECOND EXAMINATION: 100% of the final examination score

Candidates must pass each examination component to proceed. Candidates who do not pass will be notified of their results and applicable review or appeal rights.

OTHER: Proof of identification for completion of Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification, must be submitted at the time of processing for employment.

SALARIES

All salaries, as stated, are based on present information and are subject to change. The hiring rate shall be the first step of the schedule, except for classes where recruitment efforts have indicated difficulty in recruiting at that step. Appointments are made at the minimum salary shown in the posting, and increases are granted at intervals based on anniversary date.

Notification Of Non-Discrimination Policy

The Berkeley Unified School District is committed to providing equal opportunity for all individuals in district programs and activities. Accordingly, BUSD programs and activities shall be free from discrimination, harassment, intimidation and bullying based on actual or perceived ancestry, age, color, disability, gender, gender identity, gender expression, nationality, race or ethnicity, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or association with a person or group with one or more of these actual or perceived characteristics. The Board shall promote programs that ensure that discriminatory practices are eliminated in all district activities. (Board Policy 0410, Board Policy 1311, Board Policy 4030, Board Policy 5145.3, Board Policy 5145.7)

The Board also prohibits retaliation against any district employee or job applicant who complains, testifies or in any way participates in the district's complaint procedures instituted pursuant to this policy. (Board Policy 4030)

Complaint forms are available at school sites and on the district webpage at www.berkeleyschools.net/complaints.

For inquiries or concerns regarding BUSD nondiscrimination policy 5145.3 or the filing of discrimination complaints, please contact:

Jasmina Viteskic, Title IX Coordinator/Compliance Officer
2020 Bonar Street Room 116, Berkeley, CA 94702
Phone: [phone] Email: [e-mail]

More information is available at www.berkeleyschools.net/non‑discrimination/.

BENEFITS (FOR PERMANENT EMPLOYEES)

Health plans provide for full coverage for employees and family in the area of medical and dental insurance to a negotiated maximum. All employees who work an average regular assignment of less than 5-1/2 hours a day (.72 FTE or less) shall be entitled to health insurance coverage and dental insurance coverage on a pro‑rated basis. This position is covered by Social Security and may be eligible for California Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS), with joint employee and employer paid contributions. Current members of CalPERS working in other California state, county, city, and school districts can transfer retirement service credit to the District. All employees are enrolled in an Employee Assistant Program (EAP). The District also offers various optional benefits including life insurance, short term disability, Vision Service Plan (VSP), and a medical and dependent care flexible spending option.

VACATION

Regular, non‑management, District employees shall accrue vacation as follows:

1-3 Years: Ten (10) working days per year until he/she has completed four (4) years of service.

4-9 Years: Fifteen (15) working days per year until he/she has completed ten (10) years of service.

10-14 Years: Twenty (20) working days per year until he/she has completed fifteen (15) years of service.

15+ Years: Twenty‑five (25) working days per year.

Regular twelve (12) month employees shall accrue two (2) additional days of vacation per year at each step indicated above.

HOLIDAYS

Annual employees receive seventeen (17) paid holidays per year:

Independence Day

Labor Day

Veterans' Day

Thanksgiving Holiday (3 Days)

Winter Board Holiday (3 Days)

New Year's Holiday (2 Days)

Martin Luther King's Birthday

Lincoln's Birthday

Washington's Birthday

Spring Board Holiday

Malcolm X's Birthday

Memorial Day

Juneteenth

School Year employees may receive sixteen (17) paid holidays, including all of the above except Independence Day (4th of July).

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Classified employees may also participate in professional development activities to enhance their careers.

Health And Character Investigations

Candidates selected for appointment may be required to pass a medical examination given by a Commission‑designated physician to determine physical fitness for District employment. The Commission may disqualify any eligible candidates on the basis of the examining physician's report. The District also conducts a fingerprinting background check for all potential candidates for hire. All convictions must be declared and explained on the application; failure to do so will automatically disqualify the application. Tuberculosis tests must be completed and a negative result must be supplied prior to beginning work.