What are the responsibilities and job description for the Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialist (Starting August 2025) position at North Central Ohio ESC?
Title Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialist - COMS
Location NCOESC service areas
Reports To Direct Supervisor
Scheduled Days As per employment contract / Part time available
FLSA Status Exempt
Job Summary
Under general direction, the orientation and mobility specialist will travel to the students’ assigned schools/settings to provide direct and/or consultative special education services relating to vision loss. These services enable the students to learn in a variety of settings. The COMS must be able to convey professional opinions in a diplomatic, collaborative manner in order to ensure that appropriate programming is recommended for the student.
The COMS Role May Include:
Teach safe, efficient, and effective travel skills to students
Evaluate the vision and/or orientation mobility of students based on all available information
Comply with state model policies and procedures for the delivery of O&M services
Help multi-disciplinary teams evaluate the mobility needs of students with visual impairments and/or other disabilities
Follows state and board-adopted processes and procedures
Provide instruction and support in the use and care of vision, orientation, and mobility goals
Help prepare and implement Individualized Education Plans (IEP) or IFSP
Maintain student files with updated ETRs, IEPs, forms, progress notes and other related items
Attend IEP/IFSP, ETR, transition, and required meetings
Comply with state model policies and procedures for the delivery of O&M services
Collaborate with teachers
Share knowledge and resources that enhance the educational process
Consult with parents as needed (e.g., telephone calls, messages, meetings, etc.)
Supports a full range of educational options
Help staff to resolve problems related to the participation of students with disabilities in appropriate peer group activities
Provide information to families about proper techniques to assist with mobility training at home
Participate in parent conferences, open houses and other activities as needed
Minimum Qualifications
Valid Ohio License with the Teaching Field of Orientation and Mobility Specialist
Valid driver's license
Excellent communication, collaboration, and organizational skills; including strong interpersonal relationship skills including cultural sensitivity & competence
Preferred experience with diverse populations, including those with disabilities
Proficiency with use of technology hardware and basic software (i.e., Microsoft office), email, and office equipment (i.e., copier, fax, scanner, telephone, etc.). Proficiency with web-based applications (i.e., Google Docs, DEWs website, social media, etc.), and NCOESC databases
Ability to preserve confidentiality of student information and records
May require successful completion of communicable disease, child abuse, CPR, first aid, CPI and/or behavioral management training or other training as needed
Clearances Criminal justice fingerprint/background (FBI/BCI), and public health clearances.
Physical Requirements & Working Conditions
The performance of this job requires constant talking, and hearing, engagement in repetitive motions, and eye/hand/foot coordination. This job requires occasional standing, walking, sitting, lifting, carrying, pulling, climbing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, reaching, handling, grasping, and feeling.
Performance of primary duties takes place in a school environment with occasional exposure to adverse environmental conditions including extreme heat & cold, temperature changes, wetness, humidity, noise, and hazards. Frequent light to moderate physical effort required.
EEOC/ADA Disclaimer
The qualifications listed above are intended to represent the education, experience, skill and ability levels typically needed to successfully perform the essential duties contained in this job description. North Central Ohio Educational Service Center (NCOESC) is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against individuals regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, gender identity or expression, ancestry, familial status, military status or disability in its programs, activities, and employment policies. NCOESC fully supports the hiring and employment of individuals with physical or mental disabilities who meet the job qualifications, so long as the individuals are able to perform the essential duties of the position with or without reasonable accommodation.
Application Deadline - Open until filled