Blind Services Director

OverviewJoin the State of Vermont and Make a Difference for Blind and Visually Impaired Vermonters!Are you passionate about creating meaningful change and empowering individuals? The Vermont Department of Disabilities, Aging, and Independent Living is seeking a Division Director for Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired. This is a leadership role with a great benefits package and the chance to make a statewide impact.Why You'll Love This RoleGuide a dedicated team of professionals committed to excellence and person-centered service.Plan, organize, and direct statewide programs based on continuous assessment of community needs and outcomes with public and private human service agencies, advocacy groups, and stakeholders across Vermont.Oversee and develop Vermont's federal and state vocational rehabilitation plan for blind individuals, including strategic goals, actions, and budget management.Identify new funding sources, prepare grants, and enhance services that support education, employment, and independent living.Promote public understanding of the abilities and achievements of blind and visually impaired Vermonters through outreach, events, and advocacy.What We OfferA competitive state benefits package, including health, retirement, and leave options.The opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of Vermonters.A collaborative, results-oriented environment that values customer service, strengths-based relationships, and holistic approaches.If you are a visionary leader who thrives on collaboration, advocacy, and program development, this is the role for you. Lead meaningful change, make an impact, and help empower a community that truly needs your expertise!Who May ApplyThis position, Blind Services Director (Job Requisition #53734), is open to all State employees and external applicants.If you would like more information about this position, please contact Fred.Jones@vermont.gov.Resumes will not be accepted via e-mail. You must apply online to be considered.Please note that multiple positions in the same work location may be filled from this job posting.Environmental FactorsDuties may be performed in settings ranging from departmental offices to client homes to premises of service providers. Speaking engagements before a variety of local public groups may be expected. Duties are normally limited to a regular weekday schedule, but evening and weekend meetings and sessions will occur. Private means of transportation must be available for travel. Strong, emotional, and conflicting opinions may be encountered from clients and advocacy groups which should be tactfully channeled into constructive action plans.Minimum QualificationsMaster's degree in a human services field AND our (4) years at or above a professional level in human services, education or employment services, including, (a) one in rehabilitation services to persons, with disabilities, and (b) one above the professional worker level or in an administrative role in any field.ORBachelor's degree in a human services field AND five (5) years of experience in a program which provides direct services to persons with disabilities, including or supplemented by at least two years with responsibility for administration of a major program.Preferred QualificationsExperience in services to persons who are blind or visually impaired.Special RequirementsCandidates must pass any level of background investigation applicable to the position. AHS Policy 4.02, Hiring Standards, pursuant to 20 V.S.A. 2056c or other applicable statutory authority, requires criminal record checks for all AHS positions, including motor vehicle driving record checks and national record checks where appropriate.Total CompensationAs a State employee you are offered a great career opportunity, but it's more than a paycheck. The State's total compensation package features an outstanding set of employee benefits that are worth about 30% of your total compensation, including:80% State paid medical premium and a dental plan at no cost for employees and their familiesWork/Life balance: 11 paid holidays each year and a generous leave planState Paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FMLI)Two ways to save for your retirement: A State defined benefit pension plan and a deferred compensation 457(b) planTuition ReimbursementFlexible spending healthcare and childcare reimbursement accountsLow cost group life insuranceIncentive-based Wellness ProgramQualified Employer for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness ProgramWant the specifics? Explore the Benefits of State Employment on our website.Equal Opportunity Employer The State of Vermont celebrates diversity, and is committed to providing an environment of mutual respect and meaningful inclusion that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. The State does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion or belief, national, social or ethnic origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, physical, mental or sensory disability, HIV Status, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital, civil union or domestic partnership status, past or present military service, membership in an employee organization, family medical history or genetic information, or family or parental status. The State's employment decisions are merit-based. Retaliatory adverse employment actions by the State are forbidden.