Empowering Independence: Career as a Blind Rehabilitation Specialist
Are you a dedicated professional with a passion for helping others regain their autonomy? The Gulf Coast Veterans Health Care System in Biloxi, Mississippi, is seeking a compassionate and skilled Blind Rehabilitation Specialist to join our interdisciplinary team. This role is more than just a job; it is a commitment to providing high-quality, life-changing care to those who have served our country.
Job Responsibilities
As a Blind Rehabilitation Specialist, you will act as a primary advocate and guide for Veterans adapting to vision loss. Your daily duties will include:
- Comprehensive Assessment: Evaluating the physical and emotional impact of vision loss on the Veteran.
- Care Coordination: Developing and managing Interdisciplinary Plans of Care (IPOC) in collaboration with medical teams and families.
- Instruction: Teaching daily living skills, from Braille to modern electronic travel aids.
- Technology Integration: Helping Veterans master assistive devices like smartphones, tablets, and smart-glasses.
- Counseling: Providing support to both Veterans and their loved ones as they navigate the challenges of visual impairment.
Requirements
To succeed in this role, candidates must meet specific federal standards:
| Requirement Type | Criteria |
|---|---|
| Education | Bachelor's degree in Blind Rehabilitation or related field |
| Certification | Required for GS-11 (ACVREP/COMS/CVRT/CLVT/CATIS) |
| Citizenship | United States Citizenship required |
| Skills | Strong written and spoken English proficiency |
Salary and Benefits
The position offers a competitive salary range of $78,468 to $102,014 per year, commensurate with experience and education. In addition to salary, employees enjoy the benefits of federal service, including generous health insurance options, robust retirement savings (TSP), and a culture that values work-life balance.
Application Tips
Applying for a federal position requires precision. Ensure your resume contains specific dates (month/year) and a detailed description of your duties to ensure you receive full credit. Always include relevant professional certifications if you are applying for a GS-11 grade level. Finally, check your email regularly for status updates from the VA hiring portal.
This position offers a rare chance to combine clinical expertise with profound service to Veterans. If you are ready to make a lasting difference, we encourage you to review the requirements and submit your application to the Gulf Coast Veterans Health Care System. Your expertise can change a Veteran's life.
Why This Blind Rehab Specialist (Living Skills) Job Matters
Empower Veterans to reclaim their independence. Join the Gulf Coast Veterans Health Care System as a Blind Rehabilitation Specialist and transform lives through personalized, comprehensive care.
Blind Rehab Specialist (Living Skills) Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated Blind Rehabilitation Specialist (Living Skills) to join our team in Biloxi, Mississippi. In this vital role, you will provide specialized training and instruction to visually impaired Veterans, helping them develop the skills necessary for personal independence and successful reintegration into their communities. You will work within an interdisciplinary team to create, implement, and coordinate individualized treatment plans that address physical, emotional, and social barriers to daily living.
Requirements for Blind Rehab Specialist (Living Skills)
- U.S. Citizenship (Non-citizens may be considered only if no qualified citizens are available).
- Proficiency in spoken and written English.
- Bachelor's degree in blind or vision rehabilitation, special education for the visually impaired, or a closely related field.
- Successful completion of required academic hours or a related certificate program if the degree is in an unrelated field.
- For GS-11 and above: Active, current, full, and unrestricted certification (e.g., ACVREP) in the specific discipline of service provided.
- Ability to pass a pre-employment physical examination.
- Must possess a valid driver's license (unless visually impaired).
- Selective Service registration for males born after December 31, 1959.
Preferred Qualifications for Blind Rehab Specialist (Living Skills)
- Certified Vision Rehabilitation Therapist (CVRT) certification.
- Hands-on experience teaching assistive technology, including Apple devices (iPhone, iPad, Watch), Alexa, and specialized vision tools like OrCam or Metaglasses.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary range based on experience.
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance and retirement plans.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and research.
- ✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- ✓Access to the VA's extensive internal career network.
💡 How to Apply Blind Rehab Specialist (Living Skills) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Blind Rehab Specialist (Living Skills) Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Complete the online questionnaire for this specific position.
- Upload your resume, ensuring it includes duties, dates of employment, and hours worked per week.
- Submit all required documentation, including transcripts and applicable SF-50 forms.
- Submit your application through the portal by 11:59 PM ET on November 2, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly outlines your specific experience in vision rehabilitation to avoid assumptions by the hiring team.
- If you are a veteran, include your DD-214 or Statement of Service to claim preference.
- Use the 'Application Status' feature in your account to monitor updates after submission.
- Double-check that your transcripts clearly demonstrate the required academic coursework for the position.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of this role?
The focus is on teaching daily living skills to blind and visually impaired Veterans to help them achieve personal independence and successfully reintegrate into their homes and communities.
Is certification required?
Certification is required for positions at the GS-11 grade level and above. Acceptable certifications are granted by the Academy for Certification of Vision Rehabilitation & Education Professionals (ACVREP).
Can I work remotely?
No, this is an inpatient clinical position requiring onsite presence in Biloxi, MS.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln’s promise: to care for those who have served in our nation's military and their families. The Gulf Coast Veterans Health Care System provides a supportive, mission-driven environment where health professionals have the resources and autonomy to provide the best possible care for our Veterans.