Senior Instructor of Independent Living / VRT, Sands Point, New York

Since 1967, Helen Keller National Center (HKNC) has been committed to improving the lives of individuals who are DeafBlind or have a combined hearing and vision loss. We currently have an exciting full time career opportunity available to join the HKNC team as a Senior Instructor of Independent Living/Vision Rehab Therapist (VRT). The Senior Instructor/VRT is responsible for the evaluation and provision of training in the skills of independent living with consumers to foster a more independent and productive life style in the community. Bonus: $3,000 after six months of continuous employment.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

• Plans lessons and provides skills training in the above areas based upon the findings of the evaluation, using specific methods and adaptations required to teach individuals who are DeafBlind
• Recommends, plans, and provides training on an individual basis on independent living skills.
• Records progress and submits individualized reports in a timely manner.
• Participates in conferences for discussion of information pertaining to consumer development, evaluation, training progress, termination and transition to place of residence. Cooperates in team effort to support the consumer to meet his/her individual goals.
• Documents consumer performance during evaluation and training sessions to monitor progress; identifies problems and constraints; develops strategies and remedies; and provides formal reports to funding sources.
• Works on activities related to Independent Living program development. This will include: gathering information, investigating trends, preparing resource material for long term consumer use, developing forms, participating in curriculum development.
• In the absence of the Independent Living Supervisor, the designated Senior Instructor acts as leader in order to assure smooth operation of the department, continuity of service and safety of consumer. This will include ensuring class coverage.
• Provides information and advice regarding Independent Living programs and/or work methods to appropriate persons.
• Provides assistance to consumers and professional staff members in out-of-department activities. This will include: out-of-department assignments, lounge duty, escort duty, town hall, consumer forums, fire drills. This also includes home visits and service to both local and out-of-town consumers who are DeafBlind.
• Performs/participates in activities that promote professional development: HKNC in-service training, workshops, conferences, visits to schools, agencies and professional reading.

REQUIRED EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

• Master’s degree in Rehabilitation Teaching with an emphasis in Vision Rehabilitation Therapy
• ACVREP certification
• Strong writing skill required for writing reports.
• Knowledge of MS Office and Internet required.
• Excellent communication, organizational and interpersonal skills.

At HKS we strive to provide a healthy work-life balance for our employees. we offer generous paid time off and comprehensive benefit package including:

• Paid Vacation time, Paid Sick Time, Personal Days
• Fully Paid Medical, Dental, and Vision Benefits
• 12 Paid Holidays
• Short Term Disability/ Life Insurance
• 403b Program with Employer Match
• Tuition Assistance
• Voluntary Ancillary Benefits
• Career Advancement Opportunities