Rehabilitation Technician Blind Services

Overview

Client intake and support specialist role for the Blind & Visually Impaired within the Division of Blind Services, District 9 Office, Fort Myers, FL. Responsibilities include intake services, case management, and gathering eye medical data for eligibility determination.

The Florida Department of Education (FDOE) has an open position that is responsible for executing the following functions:

• Conducts client intake.
• Assesses client’s resources.
• Performs follow-up and maintains client contact through telephone calls and emails.
• Interviews, counsels, and evaluates clients to determine individual therapeutic activity needs.
• Consults with other professionals and team members concerning recommended programs.
• Prepares reports on clients’ progress and their reactions to various activities.
• Evaluates rehabilitation therapy programs and makes recommendations for adjustments and revisions.
• Conducts in-depth interviews with a diverse group of blind and visually impaired clients to assist in the determination of their eligibility for rehabilitation services and the feasibility for achieving a vocational independent living or educational goal.
• Determines existing problems and evaluates individual needs for achieving independence in daily living, in acquiring communication skills and/or obtaining suitable employment.
• Develops community contacts for similar benefits and socialization.
• Assists in the implementation of policies, standards, rules, regulations, and guidelines for program planning.
• Reviews applicant records to ensure that all necessary documentation is current and consistent with program guidelines.
• Composes and drafts letters and other correspondence.

• Knowledge of medical and psychological aspects of rehabilitation.
• Knowledge of community resources.
• Knowledge of employment program process.
• Knowledge of employment program policies and procedures.
• Knowledge of office procedures.
• Knowledge of the medical aspects of rehabilitation.
• Knowledge of employment program purchasing and accounting procedures.
• Knowledge of basic data operations and terminology.
• Skill in operation of general office equipment.
• Ability to operate a computer terminal.
• Ability to make decisions and to work independently.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.
• Ability to maintain records.
• Ability to compose correspondence without specific instructions.
• Ability to communicate effectively.
• Ability to plan, organize and coordinate work.

The ideal incumbent must be productive under tight time frames, balance multiple and competing priorities, and maintain goal-directed behavior and performance sometimes under stressful conditions. The incumbent must interact courteously with others. Attendance is an essential function.

• A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in a field related to vocational rehabilitation, or
• Four years of professional and relevant experience in a public vocational rehabilitation program. Preference will be given to those with a bachelor’s degree.

Preference will be given to candidates with:

• A bachelor’s or master’s degree from an accredited college or university.
• Three to five years’ experience in a public vocational rehabilitation program.
• Ability to establish and maintain education and experience requirements to ensure understanding of the evolving labor force and needs of individuals with disabilities.
• Knowledge of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA).

The Division of Blind Services ensures blind and visually impaired Floridians have tools, support and opportunities to achieve success. We create a barrier-free environment in the lives of Floridians with visual disabilities and serve thousands of Floridians through programs and services. District and Satellite Offices are located throughout the state, including the CTTC and the Braille and Talking Books Library. We strive to be a national model in education, employment and other services that foster independence for blind and visually impaired Floridians.

• We…