Communications Instructor, Young Adult Transition Program

Communications Instructor, Young Adult Transition ProgramPrint (https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/iowa/jobs/newprint/4776098) ApplyCommunications Instructor, Young Adult Transition ProgramSalary $55,016.00 - $83,782.40 AnnuallyLocation Des Moines - 50309 - Polk County, IAJob TypeFull-timeJob Number25-01695Agency131 Iowa Department for the BlindOpening Date01/02/2025Closing Date1/12/2025 11:59 PM CentralLinkedIn Tag#LI-DNPPoint of ContactAmbrose Ball-Harney ambrose.ballharney@blind.state.ia.usTo ApplyApplicants need to attach a resume and cover letter to their NeoGov application

Description

Benefits

Job DescriptionThis is a non-merit position with the Iowa Department for the Blind. Candidates must follow the instructions in the "To Apply" section.Positions in this class are exempt from the screening and referral requirements of the Iowa Department of Administrative Services - Human Resources Enterprise.The Iowa Department for the Blind (IDB) is seeking an energetic and passionate communications instructor for its Young Adult Transition Program for blind youth. This position will serve as part of a team that works dynamically together to best serve the needs of students.Ideal candidates will possess a strong teaching ability and a belief in the capacity of blind persons, as well as experience with braille and access technology. IDB can provide training in the other blindness skill areas listed if needed and will provide training in the teaching curricula used in these programs. The Young Adult Transition Program is a school-year based residential program for youth who have finished high school, but who need additional instruction in order to participate in post-secondary learning and employment opportunities. During the summer, this position will work with IDB’s summer program, LEAP, for youth ages 14-21. Duties and responsibilities to include the following:

Provide Workplace Readiness, Self-Advocacy and Disability-Related skills training to blind youth in comprehensive residential training programs such as the Young Adult Transition Program and LEAP Program.

Provide daily braille and technology instruction to students enrolled in the Young Adult Transition program.

Design lesson plans to meet students’ individual needs and the goals on their Individualized Education Programs and Individual Plans for Employment both to be taught directly and for use by other program staff.

Write monthly and end of program reports and complete bi-weekly IEP progress monitoring.

Provide daily guidance and direction to summer program staff hired to provide direct instruction to summer program students.

Provide guidance and support to Youth Services Workers in how they can most effectively support students’ growth and independence in the areas of braille and technology.

Develop curricula, assessments and teaching materials for teaching blind youth. Measure students’ progress toward their goals on an on-going basis through the use of data and rubrics. Collaborate with other program staff and supervisor to address student needs and concerns.

Serve as a role model for students in the use of nonvisual techniques and problem-solving skills.

Promote a positive philosophy of blindness through involvement in trainings and community outreach events for parents, educators and other service providers as directed.

Essential functions of this position:

Demonstrate and promote a positive philosophy of blindness

Actively participate in program activities

Communicate regularly with program leaders regarding student needs and concerns

Document student progress through regular written reports

Read and write contracted braille

Teach clients to utilize the contracted braille code proficiently, including the use of English grammar, spelling and sentence structure.

Use smartphones and computers with all mainstream nonvisual technology including VoiceOver, TalkBack, NVDA and JAWS.

Teach clients to use smartphones and computers with nonvisual technology including VoiceOver, TalkBack, NVDA and JAWS as appropriate.

Independently travel (using a long white cane under sleep shades)

Teach clients to travel using a long white cane

Preference will be given to candidates who possess a state of Iowa teaching license, or the ability to obtain one within two years of employment, as well as candidates who hold either the National Certification in unified English braille or the Braille Transcriber Certification from the Library of Congress; however, applicants who do not possess these credentials are still encouraged to apply.It is the policy of the Department for the Blind to conduct background checks on all finalist candidates prior to any offer of employment.Minimum Qualification RequirementsGraduation from an accredited college or university with a degree in human service-oriented sciences, education, marketing or business and experience equal to three years of full time professional work;ORthe equivalent of three years of full-time experience as a rehabilitation counselor or teacher shall be considered as qualifying provided the employee has successfully completed training to meet the certification criteria established by the agency;ORan equivalent combination of education and experience, substituting the equivalent of one year of full-time professional work experience for each year of the required education to a maximum substitution of four years. For additional information, please click on thislink to view the job description. (https://das.iowa.gov/sites/default/files/hr/documents/classandpay/JobClassDescriptions/SeniorServicesSpecialistfortheBlind1-41151.pdf) Why Choose the State of Iowa?At the heart of our commitment to excellence is a dedication to our most valuable asset – our employees. Discover the outstanding benefits that set us apart as an employer of choice.Our Robust Benefits Package Includes:Competitive Compensation:Enjoy a competitive salary that reflects directly on your skills and expertise.Keep in mind, your wage is just one part of your total compensation. Unlock the complete value of your employment with the State of Iowa by using our user-friendlyTotal Compensation Calculator (https://das.iowa.gov/media/3773/download?inline) .Gain insights into your comprehensive annual compensation, including salary and State-provided benefits.Health and Wellness:Prioritize your well-being with our comprehensive health plans, including medical, dental, and vision coverage. Enjoy the peace of mind knowing that the State of Iowa covers 90% of the premiums, providing you and your loved ones with excellent coverage at a remarkably low cost.Retirement Planning:We are proud to offer the Iowa Public Employees Retirement System (IPERS). A defined benefit plan, IPERS benefits are guaranteed for life, meaning once you retire, you will receive the same monthly benefit for the remainder of your life (once vested). We invest in your long-term financial well-being, so you can retire with peace of mind.Click here to learn more about IPERS (https://ipers.org/members) .Paid Time Off:Life is unpredictable, and at the State of Iowa, we understand the importance of work-life balance. Our leave policies, including paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave with unlimited accrual, ensure you have the flexibility you need for personal and family matters.Professional Development:Elevate your career with continuous learning opportunities. We support your growth through training programs, workshops, and tuition reimbursement.Employee Assistance Program (EAP):We care about your well-being beyond the workplace. Access confidential counseling, resources, and support through our Employee Assistance Program.Diversity and Inclusion:Be part of a diverse and inclusive workplace that embraces all backgrounds and perspectives. We believe diversity is a strength that drives innovation.Join Us - Elevate Your Career:Ready to elevate your career with the State of Iowa?Click here (https://iowa.attract.neogov.com/recruitment/p/benefits) to explore more about our unparalleled benefits and discover what makes us unique. Your success is our priority!AgencyState of IowaAgency131 Iowa Department for the BlindAddress524 4th StDes Moines, Iowa, 50309Websitehttps://blind.iowa.gov/ApplyPlease verify your email addressVerify Email