Specialist, Orientation

Vision Loss Rehabilitation Canada (VLRC)Vision Loss Rehabilitation Canada (VLRC) is a national health services organization dedicated to empowering people who are blind or partially sighted to live safely and independently. Our certified specialists provide client‑centered rehabilitation, mobility training, and daily living skills programs that help clients build confidence and thrive. We work collaboratively with ophthalmologists, optometrists, and other health care professionals, offering essential care on a referral basis in homes, workplaces, and communities across Canada.Position OverviewPosition Title: Specialist, Orientation & MobilityLocation: Mississauga, ONTerm: Full‑time, PermanentReports To: Manager, Healthcare OperationsSalary: $28.83 per hourScope and Primary ResponsibilitiesThis position covers a broad range of duties and responsibilities including instructing individuals with vision loss on orientation and mobility to aid in the acquisition of movement skills and the concept development of spatial orientation, and environmental analysis related to independent travel by individuals who are visually impaired.Essential FunctionsConduct assessments and document the O&M needs and personal goals of individuals with vision loss.With the individual, identify and prioritize goals and develop an orientation & mobility service plan.Teach concept development, spatial and sensory awareness, pre‑cane skills, cane techniques, and travel skills.Encourage and provide support in assertiveness/advocacy skills to individuals as it relates to orientation and mobility.Provide information and lessons in the use of electronic travel aids.Provide tactile maps as required.Teach sighted guide to family members and others.Act as a resource person for information regarding guide dog schools, providing skill development to prepare individuals to work with a guide dog and working with guide dog schools as required.Act as a resource in matters related to accessible design and the built environment.Maintain all case data and documentation consistent with VLRC systems and procedures.Perform administrative duties including but not limited to service tracking, benchmarking, report writing, etc.Other duties as assigned. RelationshipsLiaise and build relationships with community‑based rehabilitation teams, agencies, schools, partners and stakeholders.Provide support and counsel to individuals and their families regarding adjustment to vision loss.Attend and participate in multidisciplinary team meetings.Promote an understanding and awareness of vision‑health related issues through consultation, public education and in‑service training.Assist with the training, placement and supervision of volunteers and students. Problem Solving / Time Frame of ImpactProvide timely delivery of orientation & mobility lessons to ensure individuals with vision loss acquire travel skills to remain or regain independence.Demonstrate the ability to creatively and quickly problem‑solve to respond to unique individual needs. Decision AutonomyUtilize standard procedures and processes to work with individuals on developing an individual program to accommodate their unique needs.Use judgment when determining if the individual requires referral to another CNIB service or external services. LeadershipTake initiative to keep abreast of new electronic travel aids and other advances/technologies and techniques in orientation and mobility.Take initiative to be knowledgeable of guide dog schools and their programs.Provide leadership to community groups and partners by educating, advocating and promoting awareness about vision loss.Provide mentorship and supervision to apprentice staff within the organization, leading training and coaching of volunteers, students and staff.Facilitate and enhance team efforts on a professional level and share specialized knowledge, sources, experience, concepts, and skills. Qualifications Knowledge and Skill RequirementsKnowledge and experience working with individuals with vision loss.Knowledgeable about disabilities and all life stages (children to seniors).Well‑developed interpersonal and communication skills.Decision‑making and problem‑solving ability.Mature and professional attitude.Self‑directed, organized and detail‑oriented.Demonstrated client‑centered approach and commitment.Adherence to professional healthcare documentation, charting, and reporting standards. Experience and EducationGraduate of the Instructor for Blind and Visually Impaired Program (Mohawk College); or Diploma in Specialized Studies, O&M and Vision Rehabilitation (University of Montreal).Undergraduate degree or equivalent.ACVREP certified Orientation & Mobility Specialist (COMS) certification.Good command of relevant computer applications.Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Work EnvironmentService will be provided in office centers, individual homes and/or the community.Willingness to work flexible hours. Travel will be required. BenefitsComprehensive benefits for health, vision, dental, and mental health supports.Flexible work arrangements, paid time off, and work‑life balance initiatives.Career development through training, mentorship, and advancement opportunities.Inclusive work culture with supportive teams and meaningful work. Inclusion, Accessibility & AccommodationVLRC is committed to creating and maintaining an inclusive, equitable, and accessible workplace. We welcome applications from members of groups that have been historically marginalized, including but not limited to Indigenous peoples, racialized persons, persons with disabilities (including those who are blind, partially sighted, or deafblind), women and 2SLGBTQ+. We strongly encourage applications from applicants with sight loss. Direct lived experience is valued as an asset. The successful candidate will be required to complete a standard Vulnerable Sector Check.If you require an accommodation to apply or participate in the selection process, please contact janice.rego@vlrehab.ca. We'll be happy to work with you to meet your needs. #J-18808-Ljbffr