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

Commonwealth of VA Careers; Staunton (VA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

The Commonwealth of VA Careers is seeking an Orientation and Mobility (O&M) Specialist to join the Dept for Blind/Vision Impaired in Staunton, VA. The role focuses on assessing and teaching mobility skills to individuals who are blind or vision-impaired to promote independent travel.

For this role, candidates must have training in orientation and mobility and hold COMS or NOMC certification or be eligible to sit for the exam within six months of hire; anticipated salary ranges from $60,000 to

Qualifications

• Must possess training in orientation and mobility and be certified by COMS or NOMC, or meet eligibility to sit for exam within 6 months of hire.
• Knowledge of orientation and mobility principles and rehabilitation for individuals with visual impairments.
• Understanding functional implications of eye disorders.

Responsibilities

• Provide orientation and mobility assessment and instruction to individuals who are blind or vision impaired.
• Complete duties and projects as assigned by supervisor.
• Maintain documentation and communicate effectively with clients and professionals.

Skills

O&M assessment

O&M plan & instruction

Written & verbal communication

Education

COMS/NOMC certification

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

The employee must possess the training in orientation and mobility and be certified by the Academy for Certification of Vision Rehabilitation and Education Professionals (COMS) or National Blindness Professional Certification Board (NOMC) or meet eligibility requirements to sit for exam within 6 months of hire.

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.