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Retreat Instructor

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Retreat Instructor

Salary

$56,118.40 - $85,467.20 Annually

Location

Des Moines - 50309 - Polk County, IA

Job Type

Full-time

Job Number

26-01100

Agency

131 Iowa Department for the Blind

Opening Date

10/27/2025

Closing Date

11/10/2025 11:59 PM Central

LinkedIn Tag

#LI-DNP

Point of Contact

Ambrose Ball-Harney [email protected]

To Apply

All applications must be submitted through the State of Iowa job application site at https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/iowa. Applicants are strongly encouraged to attach both a cover letter and resume to their online application.

+ Description

+ Benefits

Job Description

This is a non-merit position, candidates must follow the instructions in the "To Apply" section. Positions in this class are exempt from the screening and referral requirements of the Iowa Department of Administrative Services - Human Resources Enterprise.

Only applicants who meet the Minimum Qualification Requirements and meet all selective requirements (listed below) will be eligible.

The Iowa Department for the Blind is seeking aSenior Service Specialistfor the Blind, Retreat Instructor. We are looking for someone who has a positive attitude toward blindness, is passionate about working with a diverse population and individuals at any period of human development, has excellent problem-solving skills, and demonstrates an appreciation for learning and teaching. This is an opportunity to join a team of energetic professionals who enjoy making a difference in the lives of those served. This individual must be prepared to work 1 weeklong retreat a month as well as one weekend retreat a month. Individuals will also assist in the planning and implementation of the Leadership Education Advocacy Program (LEAP) which is a summer retreat for young adults taking place from June through August. Domicile will take place in Polk County; however, this may be negotiated.

Essential Functions:

Instruction and Communication

Must be able to work effectively with retreat participants on a variety of skills. Must be able to outline expectations effectively and scale them to the individual appropriately. Must be able to work with clients and students in a variety of circumstances across the state.

Communicate effectively: Must be able to effectively exchange information and ideas in a way that a message is clearly understood and received whether that be in person, by phone, in groups, email, video conferencing or through use of any other communication modality.

Be able to actively listen and engage with someone then provide proper feedback. Demonstrate emotional intelligence, can stay calm under pressure and express feelings in a constructive way. Perspective taking is a must.

Contact clients as needed prior to retreats to answer any questions they may have.

Assesses clients’ training needs, provide blindness skills training and instruction in the areas of Braille, cane travel, advocacy, home-management, daily living, assistive technology, leisure, group training, and adjustment to blindness counseling.

Ability to help clients develop self-confidence, a positive attitude about their blindness, and achieve success outcomes.

Logistics and Planning

Must be able to work independently and as part of a team in the planning and logistic phase. Must be able to communicate updates, ask questions independently if unsure, work through assigned tasks, and assist others where needed. Critical thinking is a must.

Requires a high standard of ethical behavior in the workplace, and in multicultural settings. Examples include Integrity, honesty, respect, responsibility, accountability, and open communications.

Travels statewide to serve individuals who are registered at both types of retreats. Appropriate flex time will be provided when working retreats.

Selectives

146 Disabilities:

6 months experience, 12 semester hours, or a combination of both in one or in a combination of the following:

• Deaf education

• Deaf counseling

• Special education

• Intellectual disability

• Disability counseling

• Any experience dealing with the housing, transportation, accessibility, education, employment or advocacy for mentally or physically handicapped individuals.

OR

194 Customer Liaison/Advocacy:

6 months experience in serving as a customer advocate with demonstrable experience in all of the following areas:

Served as one of the main contacts for customers in handling a question or problem; used existing procedures and implemented new procedures for keeping customers updated with timely and frequent information about progress towards resolving issues; facilitated resolutions to customer issues by bringing together appropriate experts; and recommended procedures, products, or services to ensure that the problems do not occur again and that customers’ needs are better met/served.

Minimum Qualification Requirements

Graduation from an accredited college or university with a degree in human service-oriented sciences, education, marketing or business and experience equal to three years of full time professional work;

OR

the equivalent of three years of full-time experience as a rehabilitation counselor or teacher shall be considered as qualifying provided the employee has successfully completed training to meet the certification criteria established by the agency;

OR

an equivalent combination of education and experience, substituting the equivalent of one year of full-time professional work experience for each year of the required education to a maximum substitution of four years.

For additional information, please click on thislink to view the job description. (https://das.iowa.gov/sites/default/files/hr/documents/class\_and\_pay/JobClassDescriptions/SeniorServicesSpecialistfortheBlind1-41151.pdf)

Why Choose the State of Iowa?

At the heart of our commitment to excellence is a dedication to our most valuable asset – our employees. Discover the outstanding benefits that set us apart as an employer of choice.

Our Robust Benefits Package Includes:

Competitive Compensation:

Enjoy a competitive salary that reflects directly on your skills and expertise.

Keep in mind, your wage is just one part of your total compensation. Unlock the complete value of your employment with the State of Iowa by using our user-friendlyTotal Compensation Calculator (https://das.iowa.gov/media/3773/download?inline) .Gain insights into your comprehensive annual compensation, including salary and State-provided benefits.

Health and Wellness:

Prioritize your well-being with our comprehensive health plans, including medical, dental, and vision coverage. Enjoy the peace of mind knowing that the State of Iowa covers 90% of the premiums, providing you and your loved ones with excellent coverage at a remarkably low cost.

Retirement Planning:

We are proud to offer the Iowa Public Employees Retirement System (IPERS). A defined benefit plan, IPERS benefits are guaranteed for life, meaning once you retire, you will receive the same monthly benefit for the remainder of your life (once vested). We invest in your long-term financial well-being, so you can retire with peace of mind.Click here to learn more about IPERS (https://ipers.org/members) .

Paid Time Off:

Life is unpredictable, and at the State of Iowa, we understand the importance of work-life balance. Our leave policies, including paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave with unlimited accrual, ensure you have the flexibility you need for personal and family matters.

Professional Development:

Elevate your career with continuous learning opportunities. We support your growth through training programs, workshops, and tuition reimbursement.

Employee Assistance Program (EAP):

We care about your well-being beyond the workplace. Access confidential counseling, resources, and support through our Employee Assistance Program.

Diversity and Inclusion:

Be part of a diverse and inclusive workplace that embraces all backgrounds and perspectives. We believe diversity is a strength that drives innovation.

Join Us - Elevate Your Career:

Ready to elevate your career with the State of Iowa?Click here (https://iowa.attract.neogov.com/recruitment/p/benefits) to explore more about our unparalleled benefits and discover what makes us unique. Your success is our priority!

Employer

State of Iowa

Agency

131 Iowa Department for the Blind

Address

524 4th St

Des Moines, Iowa, 50309

Website

https://blind.iowa.gov/

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