Center Technology Instructor - Senior Services Specialist for the Blind 1 Print (https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/iowa/jobs/newprint/4830410) Apply  Center Technology Instructor - Senior Services Specialist for the Blind 1 Salary $55,016.00 - $83,782.40 Annually Location Des Moines - 50309 - Polk County, IA Job Type Full-time Job Number 25-02256 Agency 131 Iowa Department for the Blind Opening Date 02/12/2025 Closing Date 2/23/2025 11:59 PM Central LinkedIn Tag #LI-DNP Point of Contact Karly Prinds (karly.prinds@blind.state.ia.us) To Apply All candidates are strongly encouraged to attach a cover letter and resume with the application. + Description + Benefits Job Description This is a non-merit position. 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 someone who is passionate about technology, loves to learn, enjoys creating curriculum and designing trainings, and enjoys helping people learn to use technology. We have an excellent team of smart and supportive professionals and want to add another talented instructor to our team. Our programs are based on a positive attitude toward blindness and a belief in the normality and competency of blind people. Strong candidates will be adept problem-solvers who love to learn new technology, have a “can do” attitude, and can communicate clearly with individuals and small groups. IDB is happy to provide training in the required blindness skill areas and blindness specific access technology to candidates who demonstrate the communications skills required. Duties include but are not limited to the following: + Teach the use of Windows, MacOS, Microsoft Office, talkback, Voiceover, JAWS, NVDA, and other screen readers, printers, scanners, braille displays, OCR software and other common office applications and peripherals. + Teach the non-visual use of smart phones, tablets, and other mobile technologies. + Demonstrate and promote a positive attitude toward blindness amongst center students. + Perform routine computer maintenance and troubleshoot common technical problems in the computer lab with assistance. + Evaluate student progress and write progress reports, as well as case notes as needed. + Participate fully in all center activities. + Assist students in preparing and studying for the GED, as needed. + Add to and update IDB’s open-source technology curriculum. + Provide technology presentations or demonstrations to clients and Center staff. + Provide information about and advocate for accessible electronic resources. Essential functions of this position: + Communicate effectively in person, on the phone, and in writing with clients, volunteers, partners, and the public. + Communicate technical information in a manner understandable to nontechnical individuals. + Research and teach oneself to use new and updated technology, locating training resources as appropriate. + Evaluate strengths and weaknesses of non-visual access technologies-including screen access software, refreshable braille displays, braille embossers, tablets, smart phones, and make sound recommendations about which technologies should be used for specific situations and under what circumstances. + Collaborate and test new and updated existing access technology training curriculum with other internal RTS trainers. + Demonstrate and promote a positive attitude toward blindness amongst center students. + Thorough knowledge and understanding of the agency's philosophy of blindness and the ability to implement this philosophy in work duties. + Other duties as assigned. 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 Requirements Graduation 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; OR the 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; OR an 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/class\_and\_pay/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! Employer State of Iowa Agency 131 Iowa Department for the Blind Address 524 4th St Des Moines, Iowa, 50309 Website https://blind.iowa.gov/ Apply Please verify your email addressVerify Email