Job Details

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.

* 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.

Required Qualifications

* 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

* Valid state ID or driver's license, good driving record, and 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 physical and developmental disabilities;

* 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;

You will be required to acquire the following certifications;

* CPR/First Aid (Upon Hire)

* Food Handlers Card (Upon Hire)

* Medication Administration training

* Basic UEB Braille Understanding (Within 1 year)

Desired Qualifications

* Experience working with blind or low vision individuals;

* Experience working in educational environment;

* Certified Lifeguard

* Possess current and valid CDL

What we Offer!

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 with saline pool, track & field, auditorium, braille center, low vision clinic, LIFTT program offering dorm-style housing and much more!

Note: The full salary range has been posted for informational purposes only. New hires without State of Washington agency experience in a similarly situated position typically do not start at the top of the range as these are considered senior/longevity steps. Education/experience will be considered for the proper placement of any final candidate. This position also includes additional 5% assignment pay. This recruitment can be used for multiple positions and shifts.

On-Call staff are not eligible for the benefits listed in the Benefits tab of Neogov. However, on-call staff are eligible for the Employee Assistance Program (EAP). On-Call staff are also eligible to accrue vacation on a pro-rata basis in accordance with WAC 357-31-165. Holidays are paid in accordance with WAC 357-31-010. Personal holidays and sick time are paid in accordance with WAC 357-31-055 and WAC 357-31-115.How to apply:

To begin the online application process, click the 'Apply' button at the top of this announcement. To be considered for this position you must include the following information in your online application and complete any supplemental questionnaire(s).

* A completed online application profile that includes education and employment history (applications that state "see my resume" or similar language on the application will be considered incomplete); and,

* Allow contact for three professional references included in your application, including at least one supervisor, with up-to-date contact information.

For questions or information regarding the online application, please email ...@wssb.wa.gov.

Union Inclusion:

This position is included in a bargaining unit represented by the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE).

Opportunity for All:

The Washington State School for the Blind celebrates our differences and we are committed to a workplace that supports equal opportunity employment and inclusion regardless of race, creed, color, national origin, citizenship or immigration status, marital status, families with children (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sex, sexual orientation, gender identity diversity, age, status as a protected veteran, honorably discharged veteran or military status, status as an individual with the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with disabilities or other applicable legally protected characteristics. We will also consider qualified applicants with criminal histories, consistent with applicable federal, state and local laws. A background check including criminal record history will be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant's suitability and competency to perform in the position.

You are welcome to include the name and pronoun you would like to be referred to in your materials and we will honor this as you interact with our organization.

Veterans Preference:

Applicants who meet the minimum qualifications and wish to claim Veteran's Preference MUST attach a copy of their DD214, or other verification of military service. Please blackout any personally identifiable data such as social security number. For additional information on Veteran's Preference and guidance on how to determine if you are eligible, click here. We thank you and are grateful for your service!

Additional Information:

The state of Washington is an equal opportunity employer. Persons with a disability who need assistance with their application, or that need this announcement in an alternative format, may call (360) ###-####. Should you have any questions regarding this position, or the online application, please email ...@wssb.wa.gov. TTY users should first call 711 to access the Washington Relay Service.