Braille and Access Technology Instructor

Location: Los Angeles, California

THE OPPORTUNITY

Join us in building a more inclusive world at Braille Institute of America. We are undertaking one of the most transformative initiatives in our history, planning our next century of success in serving the blind and visually impaired communities.

Through our 2025-2027 strategic planning process, we identified the next generation opportunities to advance critical initiatives in areas such as customer research; the expansion and transformation of current programs and services; the development of new nationally and internationally accessible programs; the creation of dynamic new strategic partnerships; and the alignment of our mission, strategy, and resources.

If you are ready to join a dynamic organization transforming the lives of individuals experiencing vision loss, we want you on our team.

WHO WE ARE

At Braille Institute, we are driven by a shared purpose: to serve the blind and low vision community. We come together to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others, finding fulfillment in the impact we create. We believe in fostering a culture that is collaborative, inclusive, and flexible.

We understand the importance of work-life balance, valuing both personal and professional fulfillment. Here, you'll find an environment that supports your well-being while providing opportunities to learn, grow, and thrive alongside colleagues who are sighted and visually impaired.

Join us in embracing technology and innovation as we shape the future of accessibility and positively transform the lives of those with vision loss.

JOB DESCRIPTION

JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Job Summary:
The Braille and Access Technology Specialist provides specialized, individualized instruction, assessment, and technical support in Braille literacy and assistive technology to individuals who are blind or visually impaired. The position teaches Braille reading and writing while supporting clients in developing the skills needed to effectively use assistive and adaptive technologies for greater independence, communication, education, and employment.

The position assesses individual Braille and assistive technology needs, evaluates appropriate tools and solutions, develops and implements individualized instructional strategies, and adapts teaching methods to accommodate diverse learning styles, abilities, goals, and levels of experience.

Instruction may be provided individually or in group settings, in person or remotely, and includes Braille reading and writing, Refreshable Braille Displays (RBDs), computers, smartphones, tablets, keyboards, screen readers, and other assistive and adaptive technologies. Responsibilities include configuration, technical support, troubleshooting, and instruction on integrating Refreshable Braille Displays (RBDs) with computers, mobile devices, screen readers, keyboards, and other accessible technologies. Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish is required to provide instruction and effectively communicate with Spanish-speaking clients and families.

The position requires advanced knowledge of Braille literacy and assistive technology, including differences among Refreshable Braille Displays (RBDs) manufacturers, device configurations, commands, features, and methods of interfacing with other technologies. Responsibilities also include researching emerging Braille and assistive technologies, evaluating their potential application for clients, and remaining current with changes in accessible technology and related instructional practices.

The employee collaborates with clients and appropriate staff to identify goals, monitor progress, and support successful use of Braille and assistive technology. This position promotes skill development, confidence, independence, and effective use of accessible technology.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide individualized and small-group instruction in Unified English Braille (UEB), including uncontracted and contracted braille, reading, writing, and practical applications.
• Assess client braille and assistive technology skills, needs, and appropriate equipment.
• Configure, customize, and interface Refreshable Braille Displays (RBDs) with smartphones, tablets, laptops, keyboards, screen readers, and other devices.
• Develop individualized braille and assistive technology instruction based on client goals, abilities, equipment, and learning needs.
• Collaborate with Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) when applicable for equipment information and client progress updates
• Provide instruction and technical support in Job Access With Speech (JAWS), Non-Visual Desktop Access (NVDA), Windows, iOS, file management, device connectivity, and integrated Braille and screen-reader workflows; test and evaluate devices, software, applications, accessibility features, commands, key combinations, Refreshable Braille Displays (RBDs), and emerging assistive technologies to ensure accessibility, compatibility, and effectiveness for individuals who are blind or visually impaired.
• Support literacy development, including reading fluency, writing accuracy, and functional braille use
• Prepare and adapt instructional materials in braille and accessible formats
• Collaborate with program staff to support learner goals and progress
• Document instructional outcomes in accordance with program standards
• Collaborate with other educators, staff, and families to support students' overall educational goals.
• Attend PWG’s as a part of the learning process for applying new skills in the classroom.
• Maintain accurate records of student progress and provide regular updates to stakeholders.
• Prepare teaching materials, including tactile graphics and accessible documents.
• Maintain current knowledge of emerging braille, accessibility, and assistive technologies.
• Research subject matter and, in collaboration with the Educational Programs Director develop curricula for classroom instruction.
• Works in collaboration with the Educational Programs Director and educators across Braille Institute of America centers to provide continuity in departmental instruction.
• Prepare lesson plans as needed.
• Gathers supplies, adaptive devices and materials needed to teach students.
• Assures in-person and online classrooms are set up each day with supplies, tools, equipment and materials needed for an effective and safe learning environment.
• Prepares and maintains appropriate forms and documentation for each class as required, such as attendance and student progress.
• May design and conduct seminars, workshops and training sessions throughout an assigned region to educate families, caregivers, and professionals on issues related to the visually impaired, as well as to promote the organizations programs and services within the community.
• May participate in planning and/or preparation for special events to benefit the visually impaired.
• Acquires knowledge of research and advancements in the subject matter taught, as well as the organization's programs and services and other resources for the visually impaired.
• Make use of professional development workshops and resources.
• Will train and direct the work of volunteers assisting in classrooms.
• Performs other duties as assigned. As the organization continues to evolve, duties or tasks may change without impacting the overall Job Description.

Supervisory Responsibilities:
Volunteers

QUALIFICATIONS: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills and/or abilities required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job duties.

Knowledge and Education: Associate’s degree in Education, Rehabilitation, Assistive Technology, or a related field required. Strong knowledge of Braille literacy, assistive technology, screen readers, refreshable Braille displays, accessible document formats, and digital accessibility. Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish is required, including the ability to communicate effectively with Spanish-speaking clients in Instructional service settings. Familiarity with Windows, iOS, Microsoft Office, file management, device connectivity, and adaptive technology. Knowledge of instructional methods for individuals who are blind or visually impaired and the ability to adapt instruction to diverse learning needs.

Skills and Abilities: Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a mission-driven environment. Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills. Patience, creativity, and sensitivity to learners’ individual needs. The position requires training, assessment, research, computer, presentation, and time management skills. The ability to effectively teach visually impaired students in a particular field of expertise is essential.

Experience: Unified English Braille certificate or a minimum of two (2) years of Unified English Braille experience, including both individual in-class and virtually, and classroom-based instruction. Experience working with adult learners teaching or supporting braille literacy. Experience supporting assistive technology and Refreshable Braille Displays (RBDs). Prior instructional experience with blind or visually impaired learners. Knowledge of the accented characters and punctuation symbols in Spanish braille (preferred).

Work Environment: Position works in a classroom environment. Classroom environment(s) may include (1) in-person, traditional classroom setting, (2) hybrid in-person and online classroom, and/or (3) exclusively online classroom. May also work in the field.

Physical Requirements: Position operates standard office equipment, adaptive tools/equipment, and materials needed to teach designated subjects. Frequent standing, walking and some lifting may be required. Some travel within an assigned region may also be needed.

Hourly Salary Range: $28.00 to $32.00

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