Certified Orientation & Mobility Specialist

Guide Dogs for the Blind (GDB) is a renowned nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the lives of individuals who are blind or visually impaired by providing guide dogs and orientation and mobility (O&M) services. Established in 1942, GDB has grown to become the largest guide dog school in North America, graduating over 16,000 guide dog teams across the United States and Canada. The organization's mission centers on helping clients live safer and more independent lives by improving their mobility and fostering inclusion within the community. Operating with a dedicated team of more than 300 employees, GDB is committed to respecting, valuing, and appreciating diversity and actively encourages applicants from all backgrounds, including individuals with disabilities and those who are blind or visually impaired.

At Guide Dogs for the Blind's San Rafael campus, the role of Certified Orientation & Mobility Specialist is pivotal in supporting clients to achieve life-changing mobility goals. This is a meaningful full-time position with a pay range of $40 to $45 per hour, offering an opportunity to make a direct and profound impact in the lives of people who rely on O&M services to navigate their environments confidently and independently. As a Certified Orientation & Mobility Specialist, you will be involved in providing comprehensive O&M instruction to both new and existing clients, assisting with admission requirements, and playing an essential role in administering the O&M Immersion Program.

In this role, your expertise will be critical in teaching foundational O&M skills including long cane techniques, conducting functional low vision and hearing evaluations, and training clients in assistive technology relevant to independent travel. You will also take part in advanced navigation training for complex intersections and varied travel environments to ensure client safety and autonomy. Beyond direct instruction, you will contribute to data collection and evaluation for program outcomes, participate in the review committee, and support the organization and planning of educational seminars for other O&M specialists. Your role extends to representing the organization in outreach programs such as Guide Dog Experience days and professional conferences, helping raise awareness and educating others about the importance and benefits of O&M and guide dog mobility.

This position offers both opportunity and community. You will work alongside passionate, supportive colleagues who are dedicated to the mission of GDB, providing an encouraging, team environment. The organization offers generous benefits including comprehensive medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance plans; participation in a 403(b) retirement savings plan; generous paid time off; tuition reimbursement; and wellness perks such as an onsite gym. In addition, the unique and welcoming workplace culture allows employees to bring their dogs to work, enhancing the supportive atmosphere.

Guide Dogs for the Blind is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity and inclusivity within its workforce. They welcome applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, marital status, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. The organization is committed to providing accommodations for individuals with disabilities throughout the application process, ensuring all candidates have the opportunity to contribute to their life-changing work.