On-Call Residential Life Counselor

Student-Centered Equity Accessibility Relationships Continuous Improvement

Agency Profile:

The core purpose of the Washington State School for the Blind (WSSB) is to empower blind and low vision individuals to reach their full potential. We believe in a future where every blind and low vision student in Washington has the supports and services they need to succeed. Our programs and services are provided across a diverse continuum of service options;

including a range of short and long-term programs that include residential options at our Vancouver campus, outreach services in local schools and communities, access to specialized technology and resources through our Ogden Resource Center, as well as training options for parents, educators, and related service providers through a combination of department efforts. Our greatest resource at WSSB are our incredible staff.

Our valued employees are continuously encouraged to improve the ways that we provide service to our students and the community. WSSB’s core values are: being student-centered, equity, accessibility, relationships, and continuous improvement.

Persons requiring reasonable accommodation in the application process or requiring information in an alternative format may contact the HR Consultant er.gov. Those with a hearing impairment in need of accommodation are encouraged to contact the Washington Relay Service at or

• Provide instruction in independent living skills for blind/low vision individuals in the residential setting, this includes instruction in the areas of social skills; home management; hygiene management; clothing care; etc.
• Complete daily reports including shift reports, data tracking sheets, etc.
• Supervise students to ensure safety at all times in the residential setting.
• Create a safe and professional learning environment which encourages student growth and respects individual student characteristics.
• Implement positive behavior management strategies with students.
• Plan and participate with students in leisure activities.
• Complete basic housekeeping tasks in the residential setting.
• Administer medication as directed by nursing care staff.
• Perform other work as required.

• 1-2 years of college with major emphasis in education, child development, or related subject; OR 6 months minimum experience working with children preferably in an educational setting OR 6 months minimum experience working with blind/low vision individuals; OR equivalent education/experience which may include volunteer/life experience
• Minimum age of 18;
• Basic Microsoft Office software skills;
• Ability to maintain confidentiality at all times;
• Ability to respond to difficult, stressful or sensitive interpersonal situations in ways that will reduce or minimize potential conflict;
• Possess basic Braille competency or have the ability to obtain basic Braille competency;
• Have or have the ability to obtain First Aid/CPR card and Food Handler's card;
• Willingness and abilities to work with students with learners with diverse learning needs;
• Must be able to stand or sit for prolonged periods of time and ability to walk long distances, as necessary;
• Ability to monitor students on long distance bus trips;
• Ability to lift or assist students as necessary;
• Willingness and ability to maintain good working relationships with staff, parents and students;
• Must pass state and federal criminal background checks;
• The ability to learn and grow and the ability to take action to meet the needs of others.

• CPR/First Aid (Upon Hire)
• Food Handlers Card (Upon Hire)
• Medication Administration training
• Basic UEB Braille Understanding (Within 1 year)

• Experience working with blind or low vision individuals;
• Experience working in educational environment;
• Certified Lifeguard;
• Possession of a current and valid CDL a definite plus!

WSSB offers employees a student-focused and mission-driven environment that empowers blind and low-vision individuals to reach their full potential. Our beautiful 13.2 acre campus is on the National Register of Historic Places and not only includes state-of-the-art classrooms but a fitness center…