Orientation And Mobility Specialist, Deafblind Program

Perkins helps children with disabilities find their place in the world. An international NGO, we are committed to delivering best-in-class education to children, providing immersive training and support to professionals and families, advocating for inclusion, and accelerating innovation for people with disabilities. At Perkins, we think courageously, act collaboratively, and we own our work. Join a supportive community committed to growth where your work makes a difference.

Perkins is the world leader in educating children with disabilities, their teachers and their families. 

What you can expect as an Orientation and Mobility Specialist :

As our O&M in the Deafblind Program, you will provide orientation and mobility instructional services for blind, visually impaired or multiple disability students; You will train visually impaired students to make maximum safe travel and develop functional independence in a variety of environments, while serving as a member of an interdisciplinary team providing individual educational and pre-vocational program for students.   You are a valued member of our community

We'd love to talk with you if you have experience with:

• Assessing individual needs of each student in all areas of independent  or daily living; establishing realistic and appropriate goals and objectives design and implement programs for each student's individual education plan (IEP) evaluate and  report on the  progress of each student; Attending scheduled staff meetings and IEPs; and Confer effectively with parents
• Assisting each student to develop his or her maximum safe travel potential, and developing functional independence in a variety of environments.
• Serving as a member of a team in establishing realistic goals and  objectives for each student; Developing and implementing programs and communicating results with team to ensure continuity of appropriate program services.
• Maintaining suitable learning environment, including appropriate planning and organizational techniques; Consult with appropriate support staff.
• Preparing written functional vision assessments when appropriate.
• Supervisory Responsibilities This job has student supervisory responsibilities; on occasion, may supervise Teaching Assistants or  interns.

Education and/or Experience

• Bachelors' degree from a recognized college or university; eligible for ACVREP Certification as an Orientation and Mobility Instructor;
• Masters degree preferred with two years experience teaching students with visual impairments who may also have additional disabilities; Ability to plan and conduct a system of continuous evaluation of each student's progress; Knowledge of modern teaching techniques within the discipline;
• Valid driver's license and willingness to drive school vehicles including chair cars; Ability to effectively communicate orally and in writing;
• Ability to think clearly in stressful situations, a high stress  tolerance and physical stamina required and flexibility of schedule.

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations:

Eligible for ACVREP Certification as an Orientation and Mobility Instructor; First Aid and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) Automated External Defibrillator (AED) certification required. If required, Crisis Prevention and Physical Intervention (CPPI) training will be offered during scheduled work time.

The following shared salary range is what Perkins reasonably expects, in good faith, to pay for the position. The applicable range could differ based on experience and qualification.

Perkins offers a comprehensive benefits package for part time and full time employees, including:

• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance Wellness programs available.

• Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA) 

• Flexible Spending Accounts 

• Employer-Paid Life & Long-Term Disability Insurance

• 401(k) Plan with employer match 

• Education Benefits: Tuition reimbursement day one

• Paid Time Off

• Extras: Employee Recognition Programs, EAP, legal services, referral bonuses, credit union access, pre-tax MBTA passes and more

Perkins is a mission-driven community that supports your well-being at work and beyond. We are located in the heart of Watertown, adjacent to the Charles River and less than 1 mile from food & entertainment at Arsenal Yards.

Perkins is an equal opportunity employer. View the Perkins Notice of non-discrimination.