Center Technology Instructor

Overview

The Iowa Department for the Blind (IDB) seeks a Technology Instructor for the Orientation Center for the Blind. This position plays a critical role in preparing blind and low‑vision adults for the workforce by teaching the confident use of technology. The instructor will design and deliver individualized and group‑based instruction in access technology, emphasizing problem‑solving, adaptability, and transferable skills for employment, education, and community participation.

• Assess student skills, needs, and learning styles using structured and informal evaluation methods to establish a baseline of technology proficiency and skills.
• Develop individualized instructional plans based on assessment results, incorporating each student’s vocational goals, prior experience, and learning pace.
• Provide instruction in access technology, including Windows, macOS, Microsoft Office, screen readers (JAWS, NVDA, Voice Over, Talk Back), and common workplace applications.
• Teach the effective use of smartphones, tablets, and other mobile technologies.
• Instruct students in the use of braille displays, OCR software, scanners, printers, and other adaptive equipment.
• Develop technology curriculum to reflect current industry standards and accessibility practices, and adapt it for each student’s unique goals and needs.
• Evaluate student progress and document outcomes through written reports and case notes.
• Troubleshoot and support routine technology issues within the Orientation Center for the Blind.
• Collaborate with instructional staff to integrate technology across all training areas.
• Provide workshops, demonstrations, and training to staff and clients on accessible technology.
• Support students in achieving educational goals, including GED preparation as needed.
• Demonstrate a positive understanding of blindness and disability and effectively teach, model, and inspire that understanding.

• Communicate effectively with students, colleagues, and stakeholders in person, virtually, and in writing.
• Translate complex technical information into clear, practical instruction for nontechnical users.
• Independently learn, evaluate, and apply new and emerging technologies.
• Assess and recommend appropriate access technology solutions based on individual needs and goals.
• Collaborate in the development and evaluation of curriculum and instructional methods.
• Participate fully in Center activities and interdisciplinary training efforts.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Graduation from an accredited college or university with a degree in human service‑oriented sciences, education, marketing, or business and experience equal to three years of full‑time professional work; or the equivalent of three years of full‑time experience as a rehabilitation counselor or teacher, provided the applicant has successfully completed training to meet the certification criteria established by the agency; or an equivalent combination of education and experience, substituting the equivalent of one year of full‑time professional work experience for each year of the required education to a maximum substitution of four years.

It is the policy of the Department for the Blind to conduct background checks on all finalists prior to any offer of employment. The State of Iowa participates in E‑Verify, a federal program that confirms the employment eligibility of newly hired employees. Iowa also complies with federal Right to Work laws, which protect employees’ rights to work without joining a labor organization.