Assistive Technology Spec

Full-time, regular position within the Department of Rehabilitation Services.

About the Role

Positions in this job family are responsible for performing professional work in assistive technology services for the vocational rehabilitation of individuals with physical or mental disabilities, blindness, or visual impairments. Responsibilities include evaluating work capacities and providing technical assistance for home and work site modifications for individuals, agencies, and the community.

Responsibilities

• Complete assessments for assistive technology and other accommodation needs related to home, vehicle, job site, and employment modifications, including but not limited to: computer access, low vision devices, activities of daily living, personal mobility, and communication obstacles.
• Compare the strengths, weaknesses, and related costs of assistive technology interventions to determine appropriate devices and services, which may include fabrication or customization.
• Complete detailed written reports on assistive technology assessments to serve as referral sources with recommendations for devices, services, and vendor lists.
• Provide consultation to referral sources on purchasing and implementation of assistive technology interventions.
• Provide drawings, photos, schematics, and other pertinent information for the bid process on assistive technology modifications.
• Maintain records of consumer contracts, assessments, and resources for funding or acquiring assistive technology.
• Deliver assistive technology devices, provide orientation and training, inspections, and follow-up consultation to assess the need for additional devices or services.
• Provide training and information to advocate for the use of assistive technology; serve as a representative, subject matter expert, and consultant for the Department of Rehabilitation Services on boards, committees, and to other state and federal agencies, vendors, organizations, businesses, employers, and persons with disabilities.
• Participate in the development of program policies and procedures related to assistive technology for the Department of Rehabilitation Services and other agencies.

Level Descriptors

Levels are distinguished based on the complexity of assigned duties, the expertise required, and the responsibility for supervising others.

• Level I: Entry-level position where incumbents perform trainee-level duties under direct supervision. Focuses on developing skills in assessments and knowledge of assistive technology, primarily related to computer access. Does not perform complex assessments (e.g., home modifications, vehicle modifications) without mentor assistance.
• Level II: Career-level position where incumbents perform professional duties under limited supervision. Conducts assessments for consumers and partner agencies, and may provide training and public speaking to advocate for assistive technology.
• Level III: Specialist-level position responsible for all types of assistive technology assessments, including complex ones (e.g., home modifications, vehicle modifications). Develops training curriculum and serves as a community liaison. May mentor Level I staff.
• Level IV: Supervisory position with all Level III duties plus responsibilities for supervising Assistive Technology staff. Involved in special projects, policy development, and presenting training to staff.

Requirements

Education and experience requirements vary by level:

• Level I: Master’s degree in vocational rehabilitation, rehabilitation of the blind, vocational evaluation, counseling, or related field. One year of experience in assistive technology, rehabilitation, or a related field may substitute for part of the education requirement.
• Level II: Master’s degree in the fields listed above with two years of experience in assistive technology, rehabilitation, or a related field. Eligibility for certification/licensure (e.g., Certified Rehabilitation Counselor, Licensed Professional Counselor) may substitute for six months of experience.
• Level III: Master’s degree in the fields listed above with three years of experience in assistive technology, rehabilitation, or a related field. Requires certification such as:
  • Assistive Technology Applications Certification Program or Certified Assistive Technology Instructional Specialist (CATIS) for services for the blind and visually impaired.
  • Assistive Technology Professional Certification Program (ATP) for vocational rehabilitation services.
  • Completion of 15 graduate credit hours or one year in an accredited graduate program in Assistive Technology, Biomedical Engineering, Occupational Therapy, or Physical Therapy.
• Level IV: Master’s degree in the fields listed above with four years of experience in assistive technology, rehabilitation, or a related field. Requires the same certifications as Level III, plus completion of a "Train the Trainer" program and a recognized Rehabilitation Leadership Program (e.g., TACE Center, CLICK, NRLI, or WINGS).

Skills

Required knowledge, skills, and abilities vary by level but generally include:

• Knowledge of disabilities, human relations, assistive technology devices and services, and funding resources.
• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing, conduct assessments, and develop solutions for accommodation needs.
• Knowledge of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), American National Standards Institute (ANSI), Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), and Department of Public Safety guidelines impacting assistive technology services.
• Ability to analyze situations, identify problems, and develop presentations and curriculum (Levels III and IV).
• Supervisory skills, including planning and directing the work of others (Level IV).

Pay

• Level I (Pay Band K): $4,382.49 monthly / $52,589.93 annually
• Level II (Pay Band L): $5,066.35 monthly / $60,796.16 annually
• Level III (Pay Band M): $5,725.15 monthly / $68,701.80 annually
• Level IV (Pay Band N): $6,011.40 monthly / $72,136.81 annually

Special Requirements

Applicants must include a transcript indicating a master’s degree from an accredited program in vocational rehabilitation, rehabilitation of the blind, vocational evaluation, or counseling.