Apprentice, Orientation and Mobility

Scope and Summary

of Primary Responsibilities

The Apprentice will complete a course of study and supervised practical experience to become an Orientation and Mobility Specialist eligible for Academy for Certification of Vision Rehabilitation Professionals (ACVREP) certification. The Apprenticeship is a paid-training period consisting of graduate-level University courses and a practicum under the supervision of an ACVREP certified Orientation and Mobility Specialist. Part of the coursework will require the individual to complete an in-person, simulated, and experience-based training component.

The scope of the O&M position provides functional expertise for people who are blind and/or partially sighted often with complex health needs to maximize skills for optimal independence.

This position provides training within the provision of vision rehabilitation services, using the Health Cloud application within a matrix reporting structure. The Apprentice will learn to utilize a systematic approach based on evidence and professional reasoning to enable clients to identify O&M goals to attain maximum independence through individual lessons or group settings.

II. Essential Functions

Through the apprenticeship program knowledge and responsibilities of an Orientation and Mobility Specialist will be achieved.

Responsibilities of an Orientation and Mobility Specialist:

· Provide support through consultation to individuals and their families regarding adjustment to vision loss.

· Maintain all case data, service tracking, key performance indicator benchmarking, reports, and documentation consistent with VLRC Systems and Procedures.

· Evaluates clients’ progress as needed or at least annually to revise service plans according to VLRC policy and procedures.

· Provides interventions and supports to the client in the form of direct service, resources and information, collaboration with other programs and health care providers and transition planning.

· Keeps abreast of current materials, technology, standards of practice (ACVREP) related to providing service to individuals with vision loss by review of professional literature.

· Teaches mobility skills for indoor and outdoor orientation, sighted guide to caregivers, and others.

· Teaches concept development, spatial and sensory awareness, pre-cane techniques, mobility aids and provides environmental assessments.

· Acts as a key resource in matters related to accessible design and the built environment.

· Acts as a resource person for information regarding guide dogs and liaises with the guide dog schools. Provides skill development to prepare individuals to work with a guide dog.

Relationships

· Interacts with clients, their family, caregivers and professional affiliates to identify and develop vision related goals including intervention and therapy programs.

· Liaises and builds relationships with community-based rehabilitation teams, hospitals, and other key VLRC stakeholders.

· Attends and participates in team meetings.

Problem Solving/Time Frame of Impact

· Provide timely delivery of services to ensure people living with vision loss acquire skills and assistive technology to maintain/regain independence.

· Utilizes problem solving abilities related to implementation and development of intervention and therapy programs for individuals with vision loss.

· Adapt programs, materials, and equipment to address the needs of clients with complex health conditions.

· Sensitivity and awareness of cultural, religious, mental health needs and/or emotional support.

Decision Autonomy

· Decision making competency based on training and experience working with individuals who are blind or partially sighted to develop a client centered service plan tailored to unique individual needs.

· Within multidisciplinary team dynamics, utilizes good judgment when referring to another VLRC service or external community supports.

· Knowledgeable and decisive about methods, scheduling, type of assessment, and treatment with follow up recommendations.

Leadership

· Share specialized knowledge, sources, experiences, concepts, and skills with team at VLRC and externally with the health care community.

· Provides leadership to community groups and partners by educating, advocating, and promoting awareness about vision loss and how to promote increased confidence and independence.

· Provides leadership and guidance when training and supervising volunteers, students, caregivers, community, and staff.

· Takes initiative to develop/implement the most appropriate intervention for client and in maintaining current knowledge associated with vision loss.

Requirements

III. Qualifications
Knowledge and Skill Requirements

· Knowledge and experience working with individuals with vision loss.

· Knowledgeable about disabilities and all life stages (children to seniors)

· Well developed interpersonal and communications skills.

· Decision-making and problem-solving ability.

· Mature and professional attitude.

· Self-directed, organized and detail oriented.

· Demonstrated client centred approach and commitment.

· Able to work confidentially in a technology intensive operating environment utilizing both standard office software and specialized client management technology.

· Knowledge and experience working with assistive technology.
Experience and Education:

· Bachelors Degree, Kinesiology, Human Services, or similar preferred.

· Good command of relevant computer applications.

· Excellent verbal and written communications skills.

Work Environment

· Service will be provided in VLRC centres, individual homes and/or the community.

· Willingness to work flexible hours.

· Travel is required

Benefits

At VLRC, your work has real impact. Join a team that empowers Canadians with vision loss to live independently, and where your growth, well-being, and contributions matter. We offer:

· Comprehensive benefits, including health, vision, dental, corporate discounts, and an employee and family assistance program

• Flexible work arrangements, generous paid time off, and work-life balance initiatives
• Career development through training, mentorship, and advancement opportunities

· Inclusive work culture with supportive teams, employee recognition, a joy-in-work wellness program, and mental health supports

Join us to grow your career and make a difference every day.

Inclusion, Accessibility & Accommodation
VLRC 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 people who are blind, partially sighted, or deafblind, women, and 2SLGBTQ+ communities. We strongly encourage people with sight loss to apply. Direct lived experience is valued as an asset. The successful candidate may be required to complete a Vulnerable Sector Check, depending on the role.

If you require an accommodation to apply or participate in the selection process, please contact . We’ll be happy to work with you to meet your needs.

Not sure if you qualify? Think about applying anyway!
We understand that not everyone brings 100% of the skills and experience for the role. If you bring passion, transferable skills, and a desire to make a difference, we encourage you to apply! VLRC does not use AI tools in its screening, assessment, or selection process.

Hiring Process
Candidates selected to move forward may be invited to participate in interviews, assessments, reference checks, and/or background checks, depending on the role.

We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.