Empowering Veterans: Careers in Blind Rehabilitation at the VA
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) remains at the forefront of providing exceptional care to those who have served our nation. As a Blind Rehabilitation Specialist in Hines, Illinois, you will play a transformative role in the lives of Veterans experiencing vision loss. This position is not merely a job; it is a commitment to fostering independence, dignity, and a high quality of life for patients.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will provide critical support services to an adult population, primarily older male Veterans. Your day-to-day duties will be diverse and challenging:
- Direct Patient Care: Delivering specialized therapy to address the emotional, physical, and vocational effects of blindness.
- Treatment Planning: Assessing individual needs and developing measurable, goal-oriented rehabilitation plans.
- Adaptive Training: Instructing Veterans in the use of assistive technology, Braille, and orientation techniques.
- Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Serving as a team coordinator to ensure all clinical disciplines are aligned with the patient's care goals.
- Prosthetic Oversight: Recommending and adapting low-vision devices to maximize functional outcomes.
Comparison of GS-09 and GS-11 Grades
| Feature | GS-09 Grade | GS-11 Grade |
|---|---|---|
| Experience Requirement | 1 year specialized | 1 year progressively complex |
| Certification | Optional | Mandatory (ACVREP/Equivalent) |
| Autonomy | Guided by supervisor | Independent/Lead capacity |
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must meet rigorous standards:
- U.S. Citizenship is mandatory.
- A bachelor's degree in blind/vision rehabilitation or a closely related field is required.
- Applicants must pass a physical examination and maintain proficiency in English.
- A trial period of up to two years is required for all new hires.
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive compensation package aligned with the federal General Schedule (GS) pay scale. Depending on qualifications and experience, the salary range for this role spans from $68,999 to $108,533 per year.
Benefits
Employees of the VA enjoy robust benefits, including:
- Health, Dental, and Vision coverage.
- Retirement savings via the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- Paid annual leave, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- Access to professional development and mentorship programs.
Application Tips
When applying, ensure your resume is a "long-form" document. Clearly delineate your clinical experience, particularly any work involving adaptive technology or low-vision diagnostics. Use the USAJobs interface to monitor your application status, and ensure all required transcripts are uploaded correctly.
Serving as a Blind Rehabilitation Specialist is a profound career choice that directly impacts the independence of our Veterans. If you possess the clinical expertise and the passion to make a difference, apply today for this opportunity at the Hines facility.
Why This Blind Rehabilitation Specialist (Visual Skills) Job Matters
Transform lives by restoring independence to our nation’s heroes. Join the Veterans Health Administration as a Blind Rehabilitation Specialist and lead the way in restorative care for visually impaired Veterans.
Blind Rehabilitation Specialist (Visual Skills) Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a dedicated Blind Rehabilitation Specialist (Visual Skills) to join the team in Hines, Illinois. This role is pivotal in providing comprehensive assessments and tailored rehabilitation services to visually impaired Veterans. You will work within an interdisciplinary environment, focusing on enhancing the daily independence, safety, and quality of life for those who have served, utilizing specialized expertise in vision rehabilitation, low-vision therapy, and adaptive technology.
Requirements for Blind Rehabilitation Specialist (Visual Skills)
- U.S. Citizenship
- Bachelor's degree in blind/vision rehabilitation, special education, or a closely related field
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Passing a pre-employment physical examination
- Completion of a one or two-year trial period
- Willingness to participate in the seasonal influenza vaccination program
- For GS-11: Active, current, full, and unrestricted professional certification (e.g., ACVREP, CATIS, COMS, CVRT, or CLVT)
Preferred Qualifications for Blind Rehabilitation Specialist (Visual Skills)
- Master's degree in a field directly related to blindness or visual impairment
- Documented experience in interdisciplinary clinical settings
- Advanced proficiency in utilizing assistive technology for the visually impaired
- Demonstrated ability to serve as a Team Coordinator within a medical environment
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal Salary
- ✓Comprehensive Federal Health Insurance
- ✓Life Insurance and Long-term Care Insurance options
- ✓Generous Paid Time Off and Federal Holidays
- ✓Retirement Benefits through FERS
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (401k style) with government matching
💡 How to Apply Blind Rehabilitation Specialist (Visual Skills) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Blind Rehabilitation Specialist (Visual Skills) Job
- Create or update your account on the USAJobs portal
- Prepare a detailed resume highlighting relevant rehabilitation experience
- Gather transcripts for all relevant degrees
- Obtain copies of professional certifications (for GS-11)
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire via the application portal
- Submit all required documents before the closing date of November 5, 2026
💡 General Tips
- Tailor your resume specifically to the KSA (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities) section mentioned in the job post.
- Be sure to quantify your experience; use specific examples of how your interventions improved patient outcomes.
- Double-check that your transcripts are attached, as this is a common point of failure for applicants.
- Ensure your professional certifications are clearly listed and documentation is current.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary mission of this position?
The role focuses on providing clinical assessments, rehabilitation instruction, and adaptive skills training to help visually impaired Veterans navigate daily life with greater independence.
Is travel required for this position?
The position requires working across various settings, including patient homes, clinics, and community sites, necessitating the ability to transport patients for training purposes.
Are there specific certification requirements?
Yes, for the GS-11 grade level, applicants must hold a current, full, and unrestricted certification from organizations such as the ACVREP.
Is this position suitable for telework?
No, this is a hands-on clinical position that requires physical presence at the facility and community sites.
What if I have foreign education?
You must provide a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript to receive credit.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to the well-being of America's Veterans. The VHA operates the largest integrated health care system in the United States, providing comprehensive services ranging from primary care to specialized rehabilitation. Working here means joining a team of professionals who are as committed to the patient's holistic success as they are to clinical excellence.