This information is for reference only. These classifications are no longer valid and were replaced 7/1/2020.
- Job Development Specialist For The Blind
- What will I be doing?
- Do I qualify?
- Can I be successful?
- Benefits
- How do I apply?
This is professional work in the Division of Family Services/Rehabilitation Services for the Blind in developing employment opportunities for blind and visually impaired individuals and in providing in-service training to agency staff in the area of job placement skills.
An employee in this class is responsible for the development of employment opportunities at all levels of employment for blind and visually impaired individuals throughout the state. Work also includes training vocational rehabilitation counselors in methods of working with prospective employers and in how to instruct clients in job seeking skills. General supervision is received from the Assistant Deputy Director (Rehabilitation Services for the Blind) or other designated administrative superior. Employees exercise independence in the formulation of procedures and performance of work, however, unusual problems and matters affecting general policy are referred to the supervisor.
Surveys placement possibilities for blind and visually impaired persons in various occupations, analyzing specific processes to determine the adaptations required and demonstrates to employers how these adaptations would be completed.
Develops employment opportunities for blind and visually impaired persons in all areas of the state through employer contacts.
Provides training for vocational rehabilitation counselors in making effective placement contacts and in developing employment opportunities and job seeking skills.
Serves as resource for vocational rehabilitation counselors on employment possibilities and in the preparation of rehabilitation plans for individuals.
Provides employers with descriptions and demonstrations of available equipment that allow blind and visually impaired individuals to perform job duties traditionally thought to require sight.
Works with employers to provide information regarding the abilities of blind and visually impaired individuals.
Serves as a resource to employers regarding employer responsibilities under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Establishes an automated statewide listing of available jobs for blind and visually impaired persons.
Analyzes difficulties experienced by blind and visually impaired persons seeking employment and makes recommendations for solving the problems presented.
Maintains necessary case records and employer contact files.
Performs other related work as assigned.
(The following minimum qualifications will determine merit system eligibility. Allowable experience and education substitutions are provided in italics below the corresponding minimum qualification statement. These minimum qualifications may also be used to evaluate applicants for Missouri Uniform Classification and Pay System positions not requiring selection from merit registers.)
Two years of professional experience in rehabilitation counseling, job placement, rehabilitation teaching, vocational counseling and guidance, employment services for individuals with disabilities or related areas; and graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with specialization in job placement, rehabilitation counseling, rehabilitation teaching, counseling and guidance, behavioral sciences, education, business or public administration or related areas. (Graduate study in the areas listed above may be substituted on a year-for-year basis for one year of the stated experience.)
OR
One year of experience in a public or private rehabilitation agency for blind and visually impaired persons or in the Missouri Division of Family Services/Rehabilitation Services for the Blind at or above the level of Rehabilitation Counselor for the Blind II, Rehabilitation Teacher for the Blind, or Area Coordinator, Business Enterprises for the Blind.
Please note that documentation that supports your eligibility (i.e. transcripts, employment records, etc.) may be required at any time during the application and hiring process. If you do not possess the minimum qualifications, please consider one of many other employment opportunities with the State of Missouri.
Do you possess the key skills which are considered essential for successful employment in this classification?
Thorough understanding of blindness and its personal, social and occupational implications.
Thorough knowledge of job seeking skills.
Considerable knowledge of the labor market and employment requirements for blind and visually impaired persons in a variety of occupations in terms of aptitudes, interests, skills, abilities, physical demands and educational backgrounds.
Considerable knowledge of the principles and techniques of vocational guidance, counseling and job placement.
Working knowledge of the principles of on-the-job training.
Working knowledge of the methods and techniques of vocational rehabilitation of blind and visually impaired persons.
Ability to assess and develop jobs.
Ability to train staff in how to instruct clients in job seeking skills such as resume preparation, interviewing skills, background research, appropriate grooming and dress, and how to provide information regarding disability as it relates to employment.
Ability to train staff in appropriate and effective employer contact methods.
Ability to provide training in job development techniques.
Ability to interpret occupational data and requirements in terms of job placement and training and to convey this information to other staff.
Ability to work with employers, clients and vocational rehabilitation counselors.
Ability to use and demonstrate use of adaptive equipment.
The following link will provide you with general information about State of Missouri employee benefits.
View benefits