THIS IS A CONTRACTOR POSITION FOR 3 MONTHS (APRIL 2025 THRU JUNE 2025)
STATEMENT OF PURPOSE: Instructs students in Orientation & Mobility skills, including white cane techniques, to enable the highest level of safe and independent travel on foot and public transportation. Works occasionally with individuals with dog guides.
RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE WORK OF OTHERS: This position holds no direct supervisory responsibility.
TRAVEL REQUIRED: 100% within metro Chicago.
SPECIFIC ACTIVITIES INCLUDE, BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO:
Evaluates the orientation and mobility needs of assigned students and others referred for services;
Plans and implements individually designed program to teach orientation and mobility skills, develop self-confidence, and increase knowledge and independence travelling: throughout the UIC Polk Street Dorm, Chicago Lighthouse neighborhood, Novel locations throughout Chicago, on public transportation throughout the city, and on the job site;
Takes responsibility for the physical safety of persons receiving services when on orientation and mobility training;
Teaches appropriate white cane techniques to persons receiving services as needed;
Collaborates with staff to maintain appropriate records:
Serves as consultant to staff regarding mobility concerns; orients new staff to human guide techniques, simulation of blindness, and an understanding of orientation and mobility;
May supervise and assign routine duties to assistants, interns, and university students;
Interprets and presents specific agency services to community and professional groups as appropriate;
Tracks and documents hours of service accordingly submit time log to accounting;
Performs other duties as assigned by Supervisor.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Master's Degree in Orientation and Mobility required;
Previous teaching experience preferred;
Knowledge of city transportation system required;
Individual must be flexible to successfully interact with a diverse population of staff and enrollees, self-directed, and able to exercise independent action and decision making;
Knowledge of sign language helpful;
Ability to work flexible hours to meet client needs, and willingness to travel within the Chicago metropolitan area required;
Commitment to our mission of providing opportunities for people who are blind or visually impaired is essential.
The Chicago Lighthouse for People Who Are Blind or Visually Impaired is an Equal Opportunity Employer in full compliance with local, state, and federal Civil Rights & Affirmative Action laws. The Chicago Lighthouse for People Who Are Blind or Visually Impaired maintains a strong policy of accommodation and a consistent practice of employing qualified individuals with disabilities. All applicants will be afforded equal employment opportunity without discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, marital status, national origin or ancestry, citizenship status, age, physical or mental disability unrelated to ability, sexual orientation, military status, order of protection status or unfavorable discharge from military service.