Empowering Veterans: Careers as a Blind Rehabilitation Specialist in Tucson
The Southwestern Blind Rehabilitation Center (SWBRC) at the Southern Arizona VA Health Care System is committed to providing life-changing care to our nation’s Veterans. We are currently seeking a compassionate and skilled Blind Rehabilitation Specialist to join our interdisciplinary team. If you are dedicated to helping individuals with visual impairments achieve independence and personal growth, this is your opportunity to serve those who have served us.
Job Responsibilities
As a Blind Rehabilitation Specialist, you will:
- Assess and evaluate the functional capabilities of Veterans with vision loss.
- Develop and implement comprehensive, individualized rehabilitation plans.
- Instruct Veterans in adaptive techniques and the use of assistive technology.
- Coordinate care within an interdisciplinary team including psychology, optometry, and nursing.
- Serve as a subject matter expert on visual impairment for other clinical staff.
Comparison: GS-9 vs GS-11 Requirements
| Requirement | GS-9 Level | GS-11 Level |
|---|---|---|
| Experience | 1 Year of specialized experience | 1 Year of complex, equivalent experience |
| Education | Bachelor’s degree + qualifying coursework | Doctoral degree or 3 years grad education |
| Certification | Not strictly required | Required (e.g., ACVREP) |
Requirements
Candidates must be U.S. citizens, proficient in English, and hold a degree in a relevant field such as blind rehabilitation or special education for the visually impaired. A valid driver's license and the ability to pass a physical examination are mandatory. Successful candidates will also undergo a background check and a trial period.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary ranging from $62,893 to $98,928 per year, commensurate with qualifications and grade level. Federal employees enjoy a robust benefits package including health insurance, retirement planning, and generous leave policies.
Application Tips
Ensure your resume is detailed. Do not assume the hiring manager understands your scope of practice—explicitly state your relevant clinical experience. Utilize the official VA Clinical Resume document provided in the job listing to ensure your application passes initial screenings.
Serving as a Blind Rehabilitation Specialist at the Tucson VA is more than just a job; it is a commitment to improving the quality of life for our Veterans. If you meet the qualifications, we encourage you to submit your application by July 24, 2026.
Why This Blind Rehabilitation Specialist Job Matters
Transform lives as a Blind Rehabilitation Specialist in Tucson—help our nation’s Veterans regain independence and thrive through comprehensive, individualized care.
Blind Rehabilitation Specialist Job Overview
The Southern Arizona VA Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Blind Rehabilitation Specialist (BRS) to join the Southwestern Blind Rehabilitation Center in Tucson. In this role, you will deliver essential, specialized rehabilitation services to Veterans living with vision loss. By creating personalized treatment plans and utilizing adaptive technologies, you will empower those who have served our country to navigate their environments with confidence and achieve greater autonomy in their daily lives.
Requirements for Blind Rehabilitation Specialist
- U.S. Citizenship
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Bachelor's degree in blind/vision rehabilitation, special education for the visually impaired, or a closely related field
- Current, valid driver's license
- Pass a pre-employment physical examination
- Completion of a 1 or 2-year trial period
- Male applicants born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service
- Must be able to pass a background/security investigation
Preferred Qualifications for Blind Rehabilitation Specialist
- Master’s degree or higher in a directly related rehabilitation field
- Active, full, and unrestricted certification from the Academy for Certification of Vision Rehabilitation & Education Professionals (ACVREP)
- Specialized certifications such as CATIS, COMS, CVRT, or CLVT for relevant service areas
- Progressive experience in complex diagnostic evaluations for individuals with multiple disabilities
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Comprehensive federal health insurance options
- âś“Competitive salary based on GS pay scale
- âś“Generous paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays
- âś“Participation in the federal retirement system (FERS)
- âś“Opportunities for professional development and training
- âś“Support for a healthy work-life balance
đź’ˇ How to Apply Blind Rehabilitation Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Blind Rehabilitation Specialist Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS account.
- Download and complete the required Clinical Resume Document from the provided link.
- Prepare your full resume/CV and relevant transcripts or certifications.
- Complete the online questionnaire via the USAJOBS portal.
- Upload all necessary documentation, including DD-214 if claiming veterans' preference.
- Submit your application package before the closing date of July 24, 2026.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Be specific in your resume—do not leave room for assumptions regarding your experience.
- Ensure your resume includes both paid and relevant volunteer work.
- Double-check that all required documents are uploaded in the correct sections.
- Monitor your email for status updates after the announcement closes.
- Use the provided standard Clinical Resume template to avoid common errors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary goal of the Blind Rehabilitation Specialist?
The goal is to provide specialized instruction and therapeutic interventions that help Veterans with vision loss develop the skills necessary for independence and community reintegration.
Is travel required for this position?
The position is based in Tucson, AZ, though services may occasionally be provided via Telehealth.
Do I need to be certified to apply?
Certification is required at the GS-11 grade level and above, generally granted by the ACVREP.
Is this a remote position?
No, this is an onsite position in Tucson, though limited telehealth services may be provided.
What certifications are accepted?
We generally accept certifications from the Academy for Certification of Vision Rehabilitation & Education Professionals (ACVREP).
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) operates under a mission to care for those who have served in our nation's military. Our Whole Health System of care emphasizes partnerships between patients and providers, creating personalized health plans that focus on well-being and community reintegration.