The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc. transforms the lives of people who are blind, DeafBlind, and blind with other disabilities. Through employment opportunities, we are a catalyst for empowerment. We foster self-confidence and instill a life changing affirmation that independence is possible. From our expertise in cutting-edge technology to our understanding of mobility, we help people who are blind and DeafBlind live fulfilling lives.
We are currently seeking a person who identifies strongly with our mission and core values to join our team in Seattle, WA as an Orientation and Mobility Specialist in our Employment and Community Services department (ECS). ECS is a human services department very unique to The Lighthouse. This is an ideal role for someone who is able to build strong cross functional team relationships, is or will be a certified COMS, and has a passion for helping blind adults to lead independent lives. Prior O&M experience required, but we are willing to speak to graduating students and those who are newly certified. Experience working with people with disabilities, or diverse backgrounds is also strongly preferred. People in this role work with working age adults.
Attention Out of State Candidates: Are you an Orientation and Mobility Specialist working and living in another state who is seeking a new adventure? We would love to speak to you! The city of Seattle has a lot to offer. Relocation candidates welcome to apply! Relocation awards are available to qualified candidates.
Purpose:
The purpose of this position is to provide O&M training, education/consultation and technical assistance to people who are blind, DeafBlind, or blind with other disabilities, as well as education to employees and community members, and various departments throughout the Lighthouse, our Base Supply Centers and Contract Management sites.
Responsibilities:
- Organize, plan and provide O & M evaluation and instruction to people who are blind, blind with other disabilities, or DeafBlind, including employees and referred community members
- Work cooperatively with Accommodations, Operations, Safety, and Maintenance personnel to make recommendations for way finding and safe travel accommodations
- Work cooperatively with local transit authorities to provide consultation, input and expertise
- Work cooperatively to develop and maintain relationships with adaptive equipment vendors
- Assess basic low vision needs for employees and other participants
- Coordinate with staff at other Lighthouse locations to ensure employees have training and accommodation support or as needed (magnifiers, CCTVs, lighting recommendation, mobility instruction, cane tips, etc.)
- Travel to other Base Supply Centers as requested, and/or find local resource to provide training.
- Participate and/or support ECS Department initiatives as needed (such as DeafBlind Retreat), and Lighthouse Strategic Plan initiatives
- Participate in development of program-wide goals and measurements
- Deliver services defined in grants and contracts
- Develop and maintain positive relationships in the O&M professional arena
- Maintain files, provide documentation, data collection, reports, and summaries as needed
- Develop annual budgets and work plans
- Maintain certification
- Performs other duties as assigned.
Minimum Requirements:
- Demonstrated knowledge of a wide range of accommodation resources
- Ability to problem solve effectively
- Ability to take initiative, function autonomously, and be dependable.
- Ability to produce high-quality written documents, including correspondence, reports, etc.
- Comprehensive knowledge of PC applications, including MS Office Suite and database software.
- Professional demeanor
- Demonstrated excellent written and interpersonal communication skills
- Willingness to work as a team member
- Mature judgment and sensitivity in interpersonal relations and among diverse groups
- Demonstrated strong verbal and written communication skills
- Three (3) + years experience providing Orientation and Mobility training and instruction preferred
- Ability to work schedule as assigned.
Company benefits may include:
- 12 Paid Holidays per year
- Up to 17 days of Paid Time Off (PTO) per year
- Medical, Dental, and vision plans
- Long-term and short-term disability, AD&D
- Life Insurance
- 403(b) Retirement Plan with 6% employer match
- Tuition Reimbursement
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Team Member Referral Bonus Program
- Paid Leave for Service Animal Training
- Focus on Upward Mobility
- Inclusive and Supportive Team Environment
The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, race, creed, color, national origin, honorably discharged veteran or military status, the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability, the use of a dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.
