POSITIONS OPEN
The Alaska Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Category:
Receptionist/Administrative Assistant
Permanent Part-Time 30 Hours per Week
Salary Range: $28,080 to $31,200 per year DOE plus Benefits
Supervisor: Executive Director
Position(s) Supervised: None
The person in this position is central to the portrayal of professional standards at the Center and as such has a heightened responsibility to promote an image of warmth, welcome, and competence to those who call or come into the facility. In addition to exhibiting a professional demeanor over the telephone and in person, the individual in this position performs a variety of clerical, secretarial, and technical functions in support of the operation of the Alaska Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired. Such support includes collection and maintenance of data and related information, mailing lists, and community services provided as well as making and receiving calls appropriately, assisting those wishing to purchase aids and appliances, and maintaining client files,. Of crucial importance are the activities involved in assuring that accurate information is provided, and appropriate paperwork completed for potential and current clients utilizing the services of the Low Vision Clinic.
All staff are expected to comply with requirements as defined in grant conditions, contract stipulations, partnership agreements, Community Rehabilitation Program Standards, and any other requisites of funding sources, inspecting and evaluating agencies, and/or service partners.
Preferred Qualifications:
Associate of Arts Degree in Business, Education or Rehabilitation, or certification from a vocational training program in office or medical reception, three (3) years of prior experience in non-profit corporation office support and/or medical reception, proficiency in MS Word and Excel, and typing at 40 words per minute.
Minimum Qualifications:
High School Diploma or equivalent and/or certification from a vocational training program in office or medical reception and/or two (2) years of prior experience in non-profit corporation office support and/or medical reception, proficiency in MS Word and Excel, and typing at 40 words per minute.
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Knowledge of:
standard office procedures and techniques.
basic accounting and data collection.
commonly used word processing, spreadsheet, and database software programs (i.e., Word, Excel).
general medical reception activities, including client and staff confidentiality and right to privacy.
Skill in:
organizing, word processing, and filing.
arranging time for clients and others to accommodate staff schedules.
performing moderately difficult clerical and technical work and making arithmetic calculations.
Ability to:
work independently and to follow oral and written instructions.
interact tactfully with a diverse population (clients, staff, and the general public).
put others at ease and make them feel welcome.
present a consistently professional image that embodies high standards of personal hygiene/grooming.
produce under pressure and to meet specified timelines.
ask questions and elicit required information.
PRINCIPAL RESPONSIBILITIES:
Reception
1. Answer incoming telephone calls in an attentive, courteous, and warmly welcoming manner and transfer them to the appropriate person or extension or take messages if requested.
2. Screen calls for Center-based and other clients to protect their confidentiality and anonymity.
3. Respond to and assist with a variety of questions via telephone or in person from staff, clients, and the general public on services available at the Center and within the community.
4. Meet and greet staff, clients, visitors, and members of the general public with a smile and a receptive, professional manner.
5. Locate staff as requested by visitors and others, and direct them to the appropriate office or meeting place in the building.
Low Vision Clinic Reception and Duties:
6. Greet those who call for information about or to schedule an appointment for a Low Vision Clinic, providing introductory information on what occurs during an assessment, and answering any questions they may have as completely as possible.
7. Prepare Intake and Low Vision Clinic information paperwork prior to scheduled appointments for signature by clients and obtain current eye reports in accordance with “Low Vision Clinic Procedures.” Set up file for client.
8. Enter information on individuals interested in or who receive services provided during a Low Vision Clinic or Assessment into a database and update as needed.
9. Call clients at least one day before scheduled appointments to make sure they understand what they are to bring and what occurs during an assessment.
10. After the Low Vision Clinic, the Low Vision Specialist will return the file for processing. Check the Purchase Requisition with the Low Vision Report to be sure the right items are
listed on the Purchase Requisition before finalizing the order. Fax one copy of the Low
Vision Report to the referral doctor and mail one copy to the client. Then place all orders with vendors, except Amazon and NoIR. Send Amazon and NoIR orders to the Finance Manager.
11. Follow up on those who have been seen through the Low Vision Clinic to see if they have
any questions regarding the service, let them know a report will be sent, and inquire about
other needs or concerns they may have that Center staff can accommodate then distribute this information as appropriate.
General Record-Keeping
12. Inform the teaching and other staff when a client calls the Center about being late to or
absent from class(es) or other scheduled activities.
13. Maintain a list of names and telephones numbers of individuals, including previous clients, to be informed of Center activities and upcoming events, and contact them as requested.
14. Compile a report at the end of each month on postage used and submit this to the Finance Manager.
Aids and Appliances
15. Demonstrate to interested individuals various low vision aids and appliances for sale, including those in catalogs, as requested.
16. Order devices from agencies as directed by purchase requisitions and send the finished order to the Finance Manager.
17. Reconcile the Aids and Appliances cash box monthly and give report to Finance Manager.
Miscellaneous:
18. Ensure that the reception and lobby area are neat, clean, and professional in appearance at all times, including plants, display items, and other furnishings.
19. Scan and edit documents as requested so they can be electronically distributed to all staff, including those who are blind or visually impaired.
20. Receive Postal Service and other mail daily and distribute accordingly, as well as sign for packages and other items as appropriate and expedient.
21. Keep on hand such items as pens and scrap paper on which to write notes, and Center brochures and newsletters for visitors and others.
22. Print business cards, return address labels, other items as necessary.
23. Assist with and participate in recycling efforts in accordance with the Center’s Green Star Policy.
24. Participate in staff and other Center meetings and activities as appropriate.
25. Attend to miscellaneous errands in the community as needed and if possible.
26. Perform other duties as assigned and required.
Category: Full-time
Reports to: Program Director
FLSA: Exempt
Position(s) Supervised: None
Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialist (COMS)
Purpose of Position (50%):
The person in this position provides instruction in long cane travel and other adaptive aids to blind and low vision residential and day clients who are participating in the Center’s rehabilitation program. In addition, the COMS develops and updates the curriculum followed when providing this instruction. Primary focus will be on developing and increasing skills for safe walking in a variety of environments and conditions. For each client participating, the person in this position assesses needs, develops a service plan to meet those needs, maintains current records of client progress, coordinates services with those provided by other staff, and completes reports on level of skill development and recommendations for devices, equipment, further training, and other services. The encouragement and support of clients to accept their vision loss, to participate in Center activities, and to embrace an attitude of independence and problem-solving using alternative techniques is fundamental to all activities.
All staff must comply with requirements as defined in grant conditions, contract stipulations, partnership agreements, Community Rehabilitation Program Standards, and any other requisites of funding sources, inspecting and evaluating agencies, and/or service partners.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
Direct Service Delivery:
1. Assess the abilities and needs of clients to learn and apply adaptive techniques for mobility then develop a recommended plan of action to meet those needs and support independence.
2. Develop, update, and refine curricula for Orientation and Mobility instruction as well as the Component Description.
3. Educate and instruct clients in the development and proficient use of travel skills, including home-based as well as residential and business area mobility to increase their independence and self-esteem.
4. Participate in a team approach for the development and provision of individualized training schedules and lesson plans for clients to meet their assessed needs.
5. Respond to questions and concerns by clients regarding issues and obstacles encountered in navigating streets, stores and general use facilities, and public transportation.
6. Participate in meetings of instructional and direct service staff to review and coordinate service delivery as well as to ensure continuity and intra- as well as inter-agency coordination.
7. Maintain client files and related information in accordance with laws and regulations governing confidentiality.
8. Conduct home visits to instruct in safe mobility and to resolve areas of concern then prepare a report to include recommendations for feasible accommodations, adaptive equipment, and environmental modifications to maximize efficiency, accuracy, and long-term safety to ensure that clients have the necessary tools to live as independently as possible.
9. Provide worksite assessments independently or in conjunction with other Center staff then prepare a report to include recommendations for feasible accommodations, adaptive equipment, and environmental modifications to maximize efficiency, accuracy, and long-term safety to ensure that clients have the necessary tools to obtain or retain a job.
10. Identify new resources, tools, devices and keep current with Orientation and Mobility concepts and applicability to convey accurate and effective information to clients and others.
General:
11. Compile, compose, and produce monthly reports on activities, including support and assistance given to Center clients, for submission in accordance with a specified timeline.
12. Maintain an adequate inventory of supplies, teaching materials, and equipment important in effective Orientation and Mobility instruction, and make recommendations to the Program Director concerning needs for training equipment and supplies.
13. Attend staff and other agency meetings and participate in training/educational opportunities on current rehabilitation technologies whenever possible to upgrade knowledge and skills.
QUALIFICATIONS
All Alaska Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired employees are to consistently demonstrate the organization’s values and a commitment to the Center’s mission and to equality for people with disabilities. Employees are to demonstrate integrity, professionalism, accountability, cooperation with and respect for others.
Required Education
Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited University.
Master’s Degree in Orientation and Mobility.
Required Work Experience
Two (2) years of prior experience in delivering O&M/other rehabilitation services to the blind and visually impaired.
Required Work Experience
Two (2) years of experience delivering functional sight assessments in a vision rehabilitation center or clinic setting preferred.
REQUIRED LICENSURE, CERTIFICATION OR OTHER CREDENTIALS:
- Valid State of Alaska Driver’s License should the successful candidate choose to drive a vehicle (owned, leased or otherwise) for business purposes.
- A personal vehicle used for any Center business must meet the requirements for insurance by the State of Alaska.
- Certification in O&M from ACVREP.
Physical Requirements – must be able to:
- use hands and arms to operate office equipment.
- sit less than half the workday.
- stand and/or walk up to three-quarters of the workday.
- bend, stretch, twist, crouch and/or reach.
- view electronic monitors or use assistive technology such as a screenreader or Braille output for prolonged periods of time.
- use hands and arms for repetitive motion tasks.
- lift or carry unaided up to 25 pounds.
- push or pull using up to moderate force.
Working Conditions:
- Work is in a standard office environment.
- Travel is required (an estimated 25% of the time).
Rural Outreach Coordinator
Purpose of Position (50%):
The person in this position travels throughout rural parts of Alaska by both plane, car, or boat to deliver services to blind Alaskans. The person will coordinate trips with community health care providers, independent living centers, native corporation contacts, and optometrists/ophthalmologists. The report will also include observations relevant to establishing pertinent changes in functional usage of vision and recommendations for training. The encouragement and support of clients to accept their vision loss, to participate in Center activities, promoting a cheerful outlook, self-advocacy, and independence are all fundamental components to this position.
All staff must to comply with requirements as defined in grant conditions, contract stipulations, partnership agreements, Community Rehabilitation Program Standards, and any other requisites of funding sources, inspecting, and evaluating agencies, and/or service partners.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
Direct Service Delivery:
1. Deliver comprehensive functional low vision assessments to clients, some of whom may have multiple disabilities in addition to loss of sight, including demonstration of various optical and non-optical devices.
2. Compile information gathered during the assessments into detailed reports to send to the client, eye care professionals, and funding sources, as appropriate; that include a list of devices recommended to improve client safety and quality of life while considering their vision needs and goals.
3. Prepare requisitions for the ordering of recommended devices from distributing companies or manufacturers for assessed clients and offer clients follow up training in their care and use if desired.
4. Encourage and support clients to accept their loss of vision and embrace an attitude of independence and problem-solving using alternative techniques.
5. Make appropriate referrals, as needed, to internal areas such as VISA (Visually Impaired Senior Alaskans) / home visits, Orientation and Mobility, Assistive Technology, Manual Skills, Braille, the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation and/or other agencies.
6. Maintain client files and related information in accordance with laws and regulations governing confidentiality.
8. Remain informed on the latest trends, techniques and equipment used in the provision of low vision assessments.
9. Conduct on-the-job work site evaluations in tandem with other staff and make recommendations for useful improvements and adaptations to increase efficiency and productivity.
10. Provide technical assistance to family members and significant others of clients regarding ways of dealing with low vision and/or blindness.
Public Information and Education:
11. Network with other organizations to keep current on low vision devices and other aids.
12. Provide technical consultation to service providers and others on visual impairment, adaptive techniques, and aids and appliances.
General:
15. Compile, compose, and produce reports for low vision clients for distribution to eye care professionals and funding sources in accordance with a specified timeline.
16. Maintain an adequate inventory of low vision and related devices and make recommendations to the Finance Manager concerning needs for training equipment and supplies.
. and growth.
21. Attend staff and other agency meetings and participate in training/educational opportunities to upgrade knowledge and skills.
22. Other duties as assigned and required.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
Knowledge of:
- Effective methods to provide functional low vision screenings and related services to people who are visually impaired and who may have other disabilities.
- The human visual system including diseases, conditions, and disorders, approved interventions, and implications for daily living.
- Optical and non-optical devices for enhancing remaining vision along with their characteristics, uses, advantages, and disadvantages.
- The impact of additional disabilities on low vision as well as interventions.
- The use of adaptive devices and techniques by those who are blind or
- visually impaired.
- Effective methods to provide rehabilitation training and instruction in use of the long white cane to persons who are blind or low vision and who may have other disabilities.
Skill in:
- working effectively with diverse populations (clients/families, public, agency personnel).
- applying standards of safe travel using a long white cane.
- teaching and training disabled people.
- communicating effectively orally and in writing as well as public presentation skills and experience.
Ability to:
- motivate clients in the productive use of time.
- compile and write monthly reports and composite service delivery information.
- work as a team member in providing rehabilitation training to blind/low vision clients.
- meet deadlines and work under pressure.
- seek and access opportunities for professional development
- travel independently for work appointments, service delivery, and work-related events.
REQUIRED LICENSURE, CERTIFICATION OR OTHER CREDENTIALS:
- Valid State of Alaska Driver’s License should the successful candidate choose to drive a vehicle (owned, leased or otherwise) for business purposes.
- A personal vehicle used for any Center business must meet the requirements for insurance by the State of Alaska.
- Certification in O&M from ACVREP.
Physical Requirements – must be able to:
- use hands and arms to operate office equipment.
- sit less than half the workday.
- stand and/or walk up to three-quarters of the workday.
- bend, stretch, twist, crouch and/or reach.
- view electronic monitors or use assistive technology such as a screenreader or Braille output for prolonged periods of time.
- use hands and arms for repetitive motion tasks.
- lift or carry unaided up to 25 pounds.
- push or pull using up to moderate force.
Working Conditions:
- Work is in a standard office environment.
- Travel is required (an estimated 25% of the time).
Rural Outreach Coordinator
Purpose of Position (50%):
The person in this position travels throughout rural parts of Alaska by both plane, car, or boat to deliver services to blind Alaskans. The person will coordinate trips with community health care providers, independent living centers, native corporation contacts, and optometrists/ophthalmologists. The report will also include observations relevant to establishing pertinent changes in functional usage of vision and recommendations for training. The encouragement and support of clients to accept their vision loss, to participate in Center activities, promoting a cheerful outlook, self-advocacy, and independence are all fundamental components to this position.
All staff must to comply with requirements as defined in grant conditions, contract stipulations, partnership agreements, Community Rehabilitation Program Standards, and any other requisites of funding sources, inspecting, and evaluating agencies, and/or service partners.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
Direct Service Delivery:
1. Deliver comprehensive functional low vision assessments to clients, some of whom may have multiple disabilities in addition to loss of sight, including demonstration of various optical and non-optical devices.
2. Compile information gathered during the assessments into detailed reports to send to the client, eye care professionals, and funding sources, as appropriate; that include a list of devices recommended to improve client safety and quality of life while considering their vision needs and goals.
3. Prepare requisitions for the ordering of recommended devices from distributing companies or manufacturers for assessed clients and offer clients follow up training in their care and use if desired.
4. Encourage and support clients to accept their loss of vision and embrace an attitude of independence and problem-solving using alternative techniques.
5. Make appropriate referrals, as needed, to internal areas such as VISA (Visually Impaired Senior Alaskans) / home visits, Orientation and Mobility, Assistive Technology, Manual Skills, Braille, the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation and/or other agencies.
6. Maintain client files and related information in accordance with laws and regulations governing confidentiality.
8. Remain informed on the latest trends, techniques and equipment used in the provision of low vision assessments.
9. Conduct on-the-job work site evaluations in tandem with other staff and make recommendations for useful improvements and adaptations to increase efficiency and productivity.
10. Provide technical assistance to family members and significant others of clients regarding ways of dealing with low vision and/or blindness.
Public Information and Education:
11. Network with other organizations to keep current on low vision devices and other aids.
12. Provide technical consultation to service providers and others on visual impairment, adaptive techniques, and aids and appliances.
General:
15. Compile, compose, and produce reports for low vision clients for distribution to eye care professionals and funding sources in accordance with a specified timeline.
16. Maintain an adequate inventory of low vision and related devices and make recommendations to the Finance Manager concerning needs for training equipment and supplies.
. and growth.
21. Attend staff and other agency meetings and participate in training/educational opportunities to upgrade knowledge and skills.
22. Other duties as assigned and required.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
Knowledge of:
- Effective methods to provide functional low vision screenings and related services to people who are visually impaired and who may have other disabilities.
- The human visual system including diseases, conditions, and disorders, approved interventions, and implications for daily living.
- Optical and non-optical devices for enhancing remaining vision along with their characteristics, uses, advantages, and disadvantages.
- The impact of additional disabilities on low vision as well as interventions.
- The use of adaptive devices and techniques by those who are blind or visually impaired.
Low Vision Optometrist
The Alaska Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired is looking for a Low Vision Optometrist for our Clinics in Anchorage and the Mat-Su. The ideal doctor has some familiarity with the Blind and Visually Impaired Community. This is a contractor position.
What to Expect:
- Low Vision Clinics
- Anchorage:
- Pre-Covid Clinics had 6 patients a day and occurred twice per month
- Currently Anchorage low vision clinics are not available
- Compensation is $400/Clinic
- Anchorage:
- Mat-Su:
- Pre-Covid Clinics had 6 patients a day and occurred every other month
- Currently Mat-Su low vision clinics are available every other month with a maximum of 5 patients per day for Covid Cleaning Protocols.
- Compensation is $400/Clinic
Not Just an Eye Exam:
- The low vision clinic exams include but are not
limited to:
- Visual Acuity
- Visual Fields
- Contrast Sensitivity
- Color Sensitivity
- Glare Effects on Acuity
- Familiarity with low vision aids and devices
- Magnifiers
- Filters
- Bioptics
- Assistive Technology
- OCR
- Video Magnifiers
- Reporting:
- The doctor will make suggestions to the low
vision therapist to help complete the report.
- Including any low vision devices suggested by the doctor
- The doctor will make suggestions to the low
vision therapist to help complete the report.
Join the Team:
- Please email resume to Caren Ailleo – CAilleo@AlaskaBVI.org