O&M Specialist - #BVI00127 (Previous applicants need not reapply)

DHRM; Staunton (VA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

The Department for Blind and Vision Impaired in Virginia is seeking an Orientation and Mobility (O&M) Specialist to assess and instruct individuals who are blind or vision impaired, helping them travel independently and safely in familiar and unfamiliar environments. The position is a sensitive role; finalists will undergo fingerprint-based checks and must file a Statement of Personal Economic Interests.

Telework is limited by agency business needs and candidates must be eligible to work in

Qualifications

• Knowledge of orientation and mobility principles, rehabilitation processes, and education of individuals with visual impairments.
• Knowledge of functional implications of eye disorders.
• Ability to assess O&M needs and plan an individualized program of O&M instruction.

Responsibilities

• Provide orientation and mobility assessment and instruction to individuals who are blind or vision impaired.
• Help clients travel independently and safely in familiar and unfamiliar areas.
• Complete duties as assigned by supervisor and participate in related projects.

Skills

O&M assessment

Individualized instruction

Visual/non-visual techniques

Written & spoken communication

Job description

Title: O&M Specialist - #BVI00127 (Previous applicants need not reapply)

State Role Title: Trainer and Instructor II

Hiring Range: Anticipated $60,000 - up to low $80,000 commensurate with experience

Pay Band: 4

Agency: Dept for Blind/Vision Impaired

Location: Blind & Vision Impaired

Agency Website: https://www.dbvi.virginia.gov

Recruitment Type: General Public - G

Come step into a dynamic role as an Orientation and Mobility Specialist at the Blind and Vision Impaired, where you will be an integral part of an enthusiastic team. Join us in the exhilarating journey of transforming lives for a lifetime, where every step you take is a stride toward empowering individuals and shaping a brighter, more independent future!

Why Join Us?

• Impactful public service that drives positive outcomes
• Inclusive, professional, and highly supportive teams
• Exceptional state benefits and work life balance

Job Duties

In accordance with the Commonwealth’s Telework Policy, telework is limited based on agency business needs, and this position is subject to close 10 business days from the opening date, excluding state holidays.

The Division of Services will provide a quality program of individualized rehabilitation services, educational consultation, technical assistance, and instruction that will empower eligible individuals to achieve their desired levels of independence consistent with their abilities and informed choices.

We are seeking a Orientation & Mobility (O&M) Specialist to provide orientation and mobility assessment and instruction to individuals who are blind vision impaired and deaf blind to maximize the ability to travel independently and safely in both familiar and unfamiliar areas, thus reducing one of their greatest impediments to personal independence.

Other duties and/or special projects as assigned.

Completes duties and/or projects as needed or directed by supervisor.

Minimum Qualifications:

Knowledge:

• Demonstrated knowledge of orientation and mobility principles, adjustment to blindness concepts, the rehabilitation process, and the education of individuals with visual impairments.
• Demonstrated knowledge of functional implications of eye disorders.

Skills/Abilities:

• Demonstrated skills and ability to assess orientation and mobility needs and then to plan and carry out an individualized program of O&M instruction to meet those needs.
• Demonstrated skill and ability to assess individuals to identify proper use of both visual and non-visual techniques as appropriate.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing with individuals, co-workers, and other professionals.

Additional Considerations:

N/A

Special Instructions:

• This position has been designated a sensitive position under Va. Code § 2.2 1201.1.
• A fingerprint based criminal history check will be required of the finalist.
• The selected candidate must complete a Statement of Personal Economic Interests as a condition of employment (Va. Code § 2.2 3114).

Reasonable accommodations are available to persons with disabilities during the application and/or interview processes per the Americans with Disabilities Act. Contact [e-mail] for assistance.

Minorities, Individuals with disabilities, Veterans, AmeriCorps, Peace Corps, and other National Service Alumni are encouraged to apply.