Orientation & Mobility Specialist (COMS)

The Stepping Stones Group; Belen (NM); On-site; USD 34,000 - 55,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

Health benefits

Spread Pay Plan

Professional development

Relocation assistance

401(k) retirement plan

Referral bonus

Collaborative environment

Job summary

The Stepping Stones Group is seeking a qualified Orientation & Mobility Specialist (COMS) to join our part-time school-based team in Belen, NM. You will assess students who are blind or visually impaired and develop individualized mobility programs to help them travel safely, confidently, and independently.

You will collaborate with TVIs, special education staff, and families, support IEP goals, provide direct instruction in cane travel and environmental navigation, and document progress.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Orientation & Mobility or related field.
• COMS certification.
• NM educator certification or eligibility.

Responsibilities

• Conduct orientation and mobility assessments to evaluate travel skills and independence needs.
• Develop individualized orientation and mobility programs based on assessments and educational goals.
• Provide direct instruction in cane travel, safe travel techniques, spatial awareness, and environmental navigation.
• Collaborate with TVIs, special education staff, administrators, and families; participate in IEP meetings and progress reporting.
• Recommend accommodations and assistive technology to support access and independence.

Skills

Assistive technology knowledge

Communication skills

Collaboration skills

Experience with VI students

Education

Master's degree in Orientation & Mobility or related field

COMS certification

NM educator certification or eligibility

Job description

The Stepping Stones Group is seeking a qualified Orientation & Mobility Specialist (O&M Specialist) to join ourpart-time school-based team in Belen, NM. This rewarding opportunity allows you to help students with visual impairments develop the skills necessary to navigate their environments safely, confidently, and independently.

As an Orientation & Mobility Specialist, you will play a vital role in supporting students' educational access, independence, and overall success by providing individualized instruction and collaborating closely with educational teams and families.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Orientation & Mobility, Visual Impairment Education, Special Education, or a related field
• Certification as an Orientation & Mobility Specialist (COMS)
• Valid New Mexico educator certification or eligibility, if required
• Experience working with students who are blind or visually impaired preferred
• Knowledge of assistive technology, low vision supports, and mobility training techniques
• Strong communication, collaboration, and organizational skills

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct orientation and mobility assessments to evaluate students' travel skills and independence needs
• Develop and implement individualized orientation and mobility programs based on assessment results and educational goals
• Provide direct instruction in safe travel techniques, spatial awareness, route planning, and environmental navigation
• Teach cane travel skills and other mobility techniques appropriate to student needs
• Support students in developing independent living and self-advocacy skills
• Collaborate with Teachers of the Visually Impaired (TVIs), special education staff, administrators, and families
• Participate in IEP meetings and contribute to goal development, progress monitoring, and reporting
• Recommend accommodations, adaptive equipment, and assistive technology to support student access and independence
• Maintain accurate documentation and ensure compliance with district, state, and federal requirements

Benefits and Perks

• Competitive compensation package
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits
• Health and wellness programs
• Spread Pay Plan for consistent income throughout the year
• Professional development and continuing education opportunities
• Access to educational resources and support tools
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Relocation assistance for qualified candidates
• Employee referral bonus program
• Supportive and collaborative school-based environment

About The Stepping Stones Group

At The Stepping Stones Group, we are committed to helping students overcome barriers and achieve their fullest potential. Our team provides high-quality educational and support services that empower students to succeed in school, at home, and within their communities.

We invest in our professionals by providing the resources, mentorship, and support needed to make a meaningful impact while advancing their careers.