About the Role
We are seeking passionate and dedicated Orientation & Mobility Trainee (OMT) to empower individuals who are blind or visually impaired to achieve greater independence and safe mobility within their environments.
Orientation and mobility has been recognized since the 1960s as a core service area supporting individuals with visual impairment. In this role, you will play a vital part in enabling persons with disabilities (PWDs) to navigate their homes, schools, workplaces, and communities with confidence and safety.
Reporting to the Lead Orientation & Mobility Specialist, you will perform meaningful, hands-on work that directly impacts lives. If you enjoy working both indoors and outdoors and are committed to empowering others, we would love to hear from you.
Selected applicants will undergo a structured three-month traineeship to learn and deliver foundational orientation and mobility skills. Candidates who successfully complete the traineeship will be confirmed in the role and sponsored for professional certification and accreditation as an Orientation & Mobility Specialist. Upon certification, a salary review will be conducted, and the incumbent will be required to serve a bond with the Association.
Responsibilities
- Deliver individualized orientation and mobility training to clients who are blind or have low vision.
- Teach clients to effectively use their residual vision and other senses (e.g., hearing, touch, proprioception) to identify landmarks and environmental cues for safe navigation.
- Instruct and assess clients in the use of mobility aids such as long canes.
- Train clients in the use of electronic travel devices where appropriate.
- Teach activities of daily living (ADL) skills to clients with low vision, including personal organization and household management.
- Support early intervention by working with parents of infants and young children to foster spatial awareness, body concepts, and environmental understanding.
- Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team that may include occupational therapists, physiotherapists, optometrists, orthoptists, educators, and medical professionals.
- Provide consultation and technical advice on accessibility matters, including the built environment, public transport access, and accessible navigation tools.
- Maintain accurate documentation of client sessions and complete administrative duties related to service delivery
Requirements
- Minimum Diploma in Therapy, Health Sciences, Human Services, Social Sciences, Behavioural Sciences, or a related discipline (preferred).
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with demonstrated empathy, patience, and emotional intelligence.
- Ability to engage effectively with a diverse range of stakeholders, including clients, families, staff, volunteers, and community partners.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office applications and smartphone technology.
- Physically able to conduct up to three hours of outdoor instruction per session.
- Adaptable and willing to take on additional responsibilities as required.
- Willingness to travel overseas (costs borne by the Association) to complete required practicum hours for professional certification.
