Reader/Driver (On-Call/Hourly)

Candidate evaluation will be ongoing and DSB may make a hiring decision at any time. It will be to the candidate's advantage to submit application materials as soon as possible. This recruitment will close when the position is filled. 

Agency Information
The Washington State Department of Services for the Blind's (DSB) goal is to open doors of opportunity to those who are blind and visually impaired to: pursue their dreams, determine their goals, develop their skills and abilities, and participate socially and economically in the community.

Position and Scope
The primary responsibility of the agency is to assist customers with visual impairments retain their employment, become employed and/or increase independence and inclusion in their communities. Many of the services provided by DSB staff require travel and field work necessary to perform the essential functions of the job. Approximately 20% of the DSB workforce is blind and visually impaired. Staff who are blind and visually impaired may need and request services of Reader/Drivers to facilitate their job performance by performing visual reading and driving functions.

Working Conditions:

• This position will not work more than 140 hours per month.
• This position is not eligible for state medical/retirement benefits.
• This position works both day and evening hours based on need only.
• Driving may consist of short distance and long distance driving beyond 60 miles/day.
• Drivers will primarily utilize office assigned state motor pool vehicles. Privately owned vehicles (POV) may be used by exception only.
• May require the ability to lift and carry equipment weighing up to 40 lbs.

This position is on-call; work is intermittent, sporadic and does not fit a particular work schedule or pattern.  

Responsibilities include:

• Operating a state vehicle, transports visually impaired and blind department staff to and from various work locations; Reads and completes hand written documents; 
• Reading and completing hand written documents; and
• Relocating or carrying items for staff that utilize orientation and mobility aides such as a long cane or guide dog; may perform some lifting and carrying of objects.

REQUIRED:
Must have a valid, unrestricted, other than corrective lenses - Valid Driver's License
AND
Three (3) years of licensed driving experience, with no more than three (3) minor traffic infractions.

The preferred candidate also must have the following:

• Ability to drive safely and defensively in all traffic conditions.
• Ability to read and follow mapping directions.   
• Ability to read and write accurately at a minimum 10th grade level, and speak, comprehend, and communicate in English fluently and sufficiently to perform the duties of the position.
• Ability to efficiently search and scan print documents to effectively and accurately locate specific content needed to be read.  

•  Knowledge and experience working with individuals who are blind and visually impaired or individuals with disabilities.

How To Apply:
To apply for this position, click the green 'Apply' button at the top of this announcement. In addition to completing the online application, to be considered for this position you must complete and include the following:

1. A resume (this can be attached to your profile);
2. A letter of interest describing how you meet the qualifications outlined in this job announcement;
3. Three (3) professional references, including at least one supervisor, with current contact information.

• A copy of your valid Driver's License;
• Proof of personal auto liability insurance; and
• Driving abstract covering the past three (3) years. This can be obtained from the Department of Licensing at the applicant's expense ($13).(http://www.dol.wa.gov/driverslicense/requestyourrecord.html). 

• An FBI Criminal Background check is required for all DSB employees in covered positions or those that will or may have unsupervised access to children or adults, who are blind or have vision impairment, and who are staff and clients of the department. (Agency expense)   
• Equivalent of a Defensive Driver Training course pursuant to OFM SAAM regulation 12.20.20 may be required. 
• Reader/Drivers will respect the confidentiality of blind/visually impaired clients and employees; and use the state motor pool vehicles ONLY for business purposes.