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Services Specialist for the Blind 2/Generalist

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Services Specialist for the Blind 2/Generalist

Salary

$51,251.20 - $77,854.40 Annually

Location

Des Moines - 50309 - Polk County, IA

Job Type

Full-time

Job Number

26-01835

Agency

131 Iowa Department for the Blind

Opening Date

01/13/2026

Closing Date

1/23/2026 11:59 PM Central

LinkedIn Tag

#LI-DNP

Point of Contact

Karly Prinds [email protected]

To Apply

All candidates are strongly encouraged to submit a cover letter and resume with their NeoGov 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.

The Iowa Department for the Blind (IDB) is seeking applicants for the position of Services Specialist for the Blind 2/Generalist in the Iowa Orientation Center for the Blind. This person provides small group instruction in nonvisual skills in all subject areas. This person would fill in and teach classes as assigned and plan confidence building activities. This position works with students during some evenings and weekends, working on life skills, as well as out in the community to reinforce nonvisual skills training.

We are looking for someone who will bring a fun and enthusiastic energy to our team. Persons in this position will participate fully in center activities and challenge students to grow and reach their fullest potential. Our programs are based on a positive attitude toward blindness and a belief in the normality and competency of blind people. We know that with proper training and opportunity, blind people can live full, happy, and successful lives.

Duties include but are not limited to the following:

+ Provide individualized, nonvisual instruction to adults in all center classes.

+ Provide instruction to several students in a small group format.

+ Assist Home Management Instructor in teaching skills of daily living, organizing training area, obtaining groceries. Substitute for other class areas as needed.

+ Provide assistance to training center students in evenings and some weekends on the IDB premises. Assist students in preparing meals, learning non-visual techniques for cooking, cleaning, and organizing. Assist new students in grocery shopping, learning to travel to and from the center, to the bank, post office, and various daily living errands that arise.

+ Serve as point person during some evenings and weekends for any student needs that may come up.

+ Meet with Center Director and student for meetings and check-ins.

+ After handing out maintenance checks, student bus passes, and other materials for student classes, write service verified case notes for delivery of these services each month for RSA reporting purposes.

+ Demonstrate and promote a positive attitude toward blindness amongst center students.

+ Evaluate student progress, set goals, and write progress reports within the case management system.

+ Plan and participate fully in all center activities; some weekend student activities required.

+ Purchase and maintain classroom supplies.

+ Thorough knowledge and understanding of the agency's philosophy of blindness and the ability to implement this philosophy in work duties.

It is the policy of the Department for the Blind to conduct background checks on all finalist candidates prior to any offer of employment.

All candidates are strongly encouraged to submit a cover letter and resume. For more information, contact Center Director, Karly Prinds at [email protected]

Benefits:

At the State of Iowa, we are committed to your well-being. As a valued team member, you'll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

+ Paid Time Off: Enjoy vacation with accruals that rollover on a yearly basis, sick leave with no limits on accrual and 9 paid holidays per year.

+ Great Benefits: Excellent Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance Options.

+ Retirement Plan: IPERS Retirement package and an option for a deferred compensation plan.

+ Flexibility: Flexible Spending Accounts (medical and dependent care).

+ Life Insurance: Free Life Insurance.

+ Support: Employee Assistance Programs and Employee Discount Programs.

To learn more about the benefits of working with the State of Iowa, visit ourbenefits webpage. (https://iowa.attract.neogov.com/recruitment/p/benefits)

E-Verify and Right to Work

The State of Iowa participates in E-Verify, a federal program that helps employers confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees. Within the required timeframe, new hires will be verified through the E-Verify system to ensure authorization to work in the United States. The State of Iowa also complies with the federal Right to Work laws, which protect employees’ rights to work without being required to join a labor organization. For more information, please visit www.e-verify.gov.

Minimum Qualification Requirements

Graduation from an accredited college or university and experience equal to one year of full-time professional or paraprofessional work in human service fields such as: social services; nursing; personnel; vocational rehabilitation; education; psychology; or intangible sales, interviewing, recruiting, and promotion; recreation, public information, volunteer service for public or private organizations, fund raising, or ministry in a recognized faith or denomination;

OR

graduation from an accredited college university with a major emphasis in library science or liberal arts and at least one year of library work experience;

OR

an equivalent combination of education and experience substituting the equivalent of one year of full-time work experience (as listed above) 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/ServicesSpecialistfortheBlind2-41120.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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