Empowering Veterans: Your Career as a Blind Rehabilitation Specialist
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is a leader in clinical excellence, particularly when it comes to supporting the unique needs of our nation's heroes. We are currently recruiting a compassionate and skilled Blind Rehabilitation Specialist to serve at the Hines, Illinois facility. This role is more than just a job; it is a commitment to ensuring that Veterans with vision loss retain their autonomy, dignity, and ability to navigate the world with confidence.
Job Responsibilities
As a Blind Rehabilitation Specialist, you will act as a primary clinician and advocate. Your daily responsibilities will include:
- Assessment: Conducting thorough evaluations to understand the unique physical, emotional, and social barriers faced by Veterans.
- Treatment Planning: Developing individualized rehabilitation goals in partnership with interdisciplinary teams.
- Instruction: Teaching essential skills, including orientation and mobility, daily living tasks, and the use of assistive technology.
- Technology Integration: Prescribing and training on advanced devices, from Braille equipment to computer-assisted sensory aids.
- Advocacy: Serving as the team coordinator to ensure all aspects of a Veteran's care are aligned and effectively communicated.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Education: A bachelor's degree in blind or vision rehabilitation, special education for the visually impaired, or a closely related program.
- Experience: One year of directly related work experience or completion of qualifying graduate-level education.
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Certification: GS-11 applicants must hold an active certification from the Academy for Certification of Vision Rehabilitation & Education Professionals (ACVREP).
Grade Comparison Table
| Grade Level | Requirements | Key Focus |
|---|---|---|
| GS-09 | Bachelor's Degree + 1 Year Exp. | foundational clinical assessments |
| GS-11 | GS-09 Equivalent + Certification | Complex evaluation and team leadership |
Salary Overview
Compensation for this role is highly competitive, falling within the GS-09 to GS-11 range based on qualifications and experience.
- GS-09 Range: $68,999 - $89,703
- GS-11 Range: $83,482 - $108,533
Benefits
Beyond salary, the VA offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your long-term success, including:
- Extensive medical and dental insurance plans.
- Federal retirement savings plans with employer matching.
- Consistent work-life balance through set weekday hours.
- Accrued annual and sick leave.
Application Tips
- Focus on Outcomes: When writing your resume, highlight measurable successes you've achieved with patients.
- Documentation is Key: Ensure all transcripts and certifications are attached to prevent delays.
- Stay Compliant: Follow all instructions carefully, especially regarding the online questionnaire.
If you are a professional passionate about vision rehabilitation and dedicated to serving Veterans, we encourage you to apply. This position in Hines, Illinois, offers a rewarding career path with the opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of those who have sacrificed for our country.
Why This Blind Rehabilitation Specialist (Visual Skills) Job Matters
Empower our nation's heroes by providing life-changing vision rehabilitation and adaptive training services at the Veterans Health Administration in Hines, Illinois.
Blind Rehabilitation Specialist (Visual Skills) Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated Blind Rehabilitation Specialist to join our clinical team in Hines, Illinois. This vital role focuses on enhancing the quality of life, independence, and vocational potential of Veterans with visual impairments. You will provide comprehensive assessments, develop personalized rehabilitation plans, and instruct Veterans on adaptive technologies and daily living skills in various settings, including clinical, home, and community environments.
Requirements for Blind Rehabilitation Specialist (Visual Skills)
- U.S. Citizenship is mandatory.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Completion of a bachelor's degree in blind/vision rehabilitation or a closely related field.
- Successful completion of a pre-employment physical examination.
- Must pass a background and security investigation.
- Must be able to provide driving services to Veterans for training purposes.
- Must be willing to receive an annual seasonal influenza vaccination as a condition of employment.
- Males born after December 31, 1959, must be registered with Selective Service.
Preferred Qualifications for Blind Rehabilitation Specialist (Visual Skills)
- Active, full, and unrestricted certification from the Academy for Certification of Vision Rehabilitation & Education Professionals (ACVREP).
- Current certification as a CATIS, COMS, CVRT, or CLVT.
- Extensive experience in developing complex interdisciplinary treatment plans.
- Strong clinical background in assessing patients with diverse and multiple disabilities.
- Demonstrated expertise in instructional methods for assistive and adaptive technologies.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal Salary Scale
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance options
- ✓Federal retirement benefits including the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)
- ✓Generous paid vacation and sick leave accrual
- ✓Professional development and training opportunities
- ✓Potential for career advancement within the Veterans Health Administration
💡 How to Apply Blind Rehabilitation Specialist (Visual Skills) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Blind Rehabilitation Specialist (Visual Skills) Job
- Log into your USAJobs account or create a new profile.
- Prepare your long-form resume or CV, ensuring it is detailed and accurate.
- Gather supporting documents such as college transcripts and professional certifications.
- Complete the mandatory online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your full application package before the deadline on November 5, 2026.
- Monitor your status via the USAJobs dashboard for updates.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific: Clearly describe your experience in clinical settings; do not leave room for assumptions.
- Include volunteer work: All relevant experience, paid or unpaid, contributes to your qualifications.
- Check your documents: Ensure transcripts are legible and cover all required credit hours.
- Use the tools: Utilize the official VA resources for resume building provided on the VA Careers website.
- Follow deadlines: Late submissions are not accepted, so finish your application well in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical work schedule for this position?
This is a full-time, in-person position with a standard work schedule of Monday through Friday, 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM.
Is telework available for this role?
No, this position is not suitable for telework as it requires direct, in-person patient interaction and clinical instruction.
Are certifications required for this job?
Yes, for the GS-11 grade level, an active professional certification from a recognized body like ACVREP is required.
What if I have foreign education?
You must provide a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency to verify your credentials.
Can I apply if I am not a current federal employee?
Yes, this position is open to the public.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. Providing world-class care to millions of Veterans, the VHA is committed to innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and patient-centered service. Working at the Hines facility means joining a supportive, mission-driven team dedicated to the holistic well-being of the Veteran population.