Reader Driver

Reader / Driver (Community Worker) – On-Call

This position does not have a set schedule, and may work both day and evening hours. Reader‑Driver is on‑call; work is intermittent, sporadic and does not fit a particular work schedule or pattern.

Washington State Department of Services for the Blind (DSB) provides training, counseling, and support to help Washington residents of all ages, who are blind, low vision or deaf blind pursue employment, education, and independent living. Our mission is “Working together with individuals who are Blind, Deaf‑Blind or Low Vision so they can flourish in their homes, communities, and workplaces.”

The primary responsibility of the agency is to assist customers with visual disabilities 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 fieldwork necessary to perform the essential functions of the job. Approximately 20% of the DSB workforce is blind, low vision, or deaf blind. Staff who are blind, low vision or deaf blind may need and request the services of Reader/Drivers to facilitate their job performance by performing visual reading and driving functions.

DSB is a Public Service Loan Forgiveness‑qualifying employer.

This position provides reading and driving assistance for transporting blind, low vision, or deaf blind department staff to and from work locations. Driving requirements may consist of short distances, and long distances beyond 60 miles/day. Customer interactions may consist of assisting the individual. Reader‑Driver is on‑call; work is intermittent, sporadic and does not fit a particular work schedule or pattern. Some lifting may be included for staff that utilize orientation and mobility aides such as long cane or guide dogs.

Work will consist in either a motor vehicle, in an office setting, or at times customer homes. Incumbent may lift and carry equipment weighing up to 40 pounds. Drivers will primarily utilize office assigned state motor pool vehicles. Privately owned vehicles may be used in exceptions only.

• Operating a state vehicle, transporting blind, low vision, or deaf blind department staff to and from various work locations.
• Reading and completing handwritten documents.
• Printing documents.
• Relocating or carrying items.

Demonstrated ability through previous roles or education to meet the competencies below. Roles could be experience gained through military service, volunteer leadership, consulting, self‑employment, previous roles, classes or certifications, or non‑traditional jobs.

• Licensing and Driving Experience – Valid, unrestricted, Driver's License recognized by Washington State and 3 years of licensed driving experience, with no more than 3 minor infractions.
• Defensive and Attentive Driving – Ability to drive safely and defensively in all traffic, road, and weather conditions and following mapping directions (GPS, paper, written, or verbal) and ability to remain attentive while transporting individuals who may require assistance.
• Document Reading and Support – Ability to accurately read, scan, and print handwritten, printed, or typed documents and locate specific content needed.
• Clear and Effective Communication – Ability to speak clearly, use understandable language, and communicate effectively with blind, low‑vision, or deaf‑blind staff or customers.
• Professional and Respectful Interactions – Ability to engage with others in a respectful, courteous, and professional manner.
• Confidentiality and Integrity – Ability to maintain privacy and professionalism when supporting staff with sensitive work activities or documents.
• Willingness to Learn – Must have a desire to learn about the specialized needs of and/or resources available to individuals who are blind, deaf blind, or low vision and who may also have other disabilities.
• Professional Growth and Service Mindset – The ability to take action to learn and grow, and the ability to meet the needs of others.
• Knowledge and experience working with individuals who are blind, low vision or deaf blind or individuals…