Orientation and Mobility Specialist (O&M) - Braille Institute of America

THE OPPORTUNITY:

Join us in building a more inclusive world at Braille Institute of America. We are undertaking one of the most transformative initiatives in our history, planning our next century of success in serving the blind and visually impaired communities.

Through our 2024-2025 strategic planning process, we identified the next generation opportunities to advance critical initiatives in areas such as customer research; the expansion and transformation of current programs and services; the development of new nationally and internationally accessible programs; the creation of dynamic new strategic partnerships; and the alignment of our mission, strategy, and resources.

If you are ready to join a dynamic organization transforming the lives of individuals experiencing vision loss, we want you on our team.

WHO WE ARE:

At Braille Institute, we are driven by a shared purpose: to serve the blind and low vision community. We come together to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others, finding fulfillment in the impact we create. We believe in fostering a culture that is collaborative, inclusive, and flexible.

We understand the importance of work-life balance, valuing both personal and professional fulfillment. Here, you'll find an environment that supports your well-being while providing opportunities to learn, grow, and thrive alongside colleagues who are sighted and visually impaired.

Join us in embracing technology and innovation as we shape the future of accessibility and positively transform the lives of those with vision loss.

Orientation and Mobility (O&M) Specialist Role:

As an Orientation and Mobility (O&M) Specialist, new hires will empower individuals with visual impairments to navigate their surroundings independently.

Teaching critical skills, supporting families and caregivers, and shaping a brighter future through comprehensive instruction is what a day in the life of an O&M specialist looks like.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conduct initial and ongoing assessments.
• Communicate the extent of training needed to help achieve goals.
• Provide individualized instruction to adults, ages 18 to 90+.
• Develop comprehensive and well-documented lesson plans.
• Accurately document students' progress and maintain up-to-date records.
• Schedule students for O&M classes.
• Teaching students in various settings, including in the classroom, in the field, in the home setting, and remotely online.
• Teach balance and coordination techniques to students as needed.
• Ensure visually impaired individuals can travel safely, confidently, and efficiently.
• Conduct seminars and presentations in the community.
• Attend and actively participate in special events as required.
• Work in diverse environments, including standard office settings, classrooms, field locations, homes, public transportation, community centers, and other outdoor training areas.
• Operate standard office equipment.

O&M Specialist, Knowledge, and Education:

• Master’s degree in special education with specialization in Orientation & Mobility (Required).
• Certification by the Academy of Vision Rehabilitation and Education Professionals (ACVREP).

O&M Specialist, Skills, and Abilities:

• Strong knowledge of Orientation & Mobility training techniques and mobility devices for the visually impaired is also required.
• At least one year of experience training visually impaired and/or disabled individuals is desirable.
• Good communication, training, time management, and organizational skills.
• The ability to work independently and effectively train the visually impaired to achieve their Orientation & Mobility goals is essential.
• Required to travel extensively throughout the surrounding areas.

O&M Specialist, Experience:

• One year of progressively responsible experience training visually impaired and/or disabled individuals.
• Valid license & two years of good driving history.
• Special Education experience is desirable.

Schedule:

• 8-hour shift
• Day shift
• Monday-Friday

Work Location: Hybrid

Pay

$71,000.00 - $76,000.00

Supplemental pay types:

• Signing bonus-$5,000.00