Description

LIGHTHOUSE VISION LOSS EDUCATION CENTER

JOB DESCRIPTION

ORIENTATION AND MOBILITY INSTRUCTOR

UPDATED: September 2024

FLSA STATUS: Exempt

SUPERVISOR:             Director of Vocational Rehabilitation Services 

Job Summary

The Orientation and Mobility Instructor is responsible for the planning and delivery of individualized instruction in orientation and mobility for blind and visually impaired clients.

Essential Functions

• Conduct home-based pre-assessments of clients’ needs for training that will allow them to travel safely in various environments. 
• Write an individualized instruction plan with clear goals for instruction in conjunction with the client.
• Escort and/or transport clients as necessary for O&M lessons.
• Provide instruction in conjunction with an individualized instruction plan.
• Evaluate client progress and make recommendations for further training if appropriate.
• Conduct client post-assessments to determine effectiveness of the program.
• Complete and enter into the database all reports and statistical information required by Lighthouse and funding sources such as DBS to document client progress including evaluations, goals, daily and monthly progress, prior to established deadlines.
• Assist in the development of needed community resources and education through in-service training programs.
• Provide classroom instruction for the Orientation and Mobility component of the Adjustment to Vision Loss course as needed.
• Attend meetings and trainings as needed.

Other Functions:

• Support Lighthouse’s fund-raising activities.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Skills/Abilities

• Good knowledge of implications of eye disorders, blindness and other disabilities.
• Strong computer and internet skills and working knowledge of Google (preferred) and/or Microsoft Office applications.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to deal with a diverse range of clients and staff in a professional manner.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to prioritize tasks in order to meet deadlines.
• Works independently with minimal supervision.
• Discretion and ability to maintain confidential information.
• Ability to work cooperatively as a team member to meet organizational goals.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree in Visually Impaired Rehabilitation or a related field. 
• Must have COMS (Certified Orientation Mobility Specialist) certification or currently in an accredited University program to obtain the certification.
• A minimum of one year of related experience is preferred.

Physical Demands

• Ability to operate basic office equipment such as computers, copiers, printers and fax machines.
• Ability to travel within the service area (at times this can exceed two hours each way).
• Ability to operate equipment used in rehabilitation service delivery.
• Ability to stand for sustained periods of time assisting clients.
• Ability to speak loudly yet patiently with hearing-impaired clients.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Visually Impaired Rehabilitation or a related field.
• Must have COMS(Certified Orientation Mobility Specialist) certification or currently in an accredited University program to obtain the certification 
• A minimum of one year of related experience is preferred.