About The Role

Candidates who are blind or visually impaired and/or deaf or hard of hearing are encouraged to apply for this position and may be given preference in hiring as permitted by federal laws. Information related to disability is not required, and if disclosed voluntarily, will be used only in AIDB’s efforts to create opportunities for individuals with exceptionalities. Non-disclosure will not subject any applicant to adverse treatment.

POSITION: Instructional Aide

E. H. Gentry Facility

ABOUT ALABAMA INSTITUTE FOR DEAF AND BLIND (AIDB)

Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind (AIDB) is the world’s most comprehensive education, rehabilitation, and service program serving individuals of all ages who are Deaf, Blind, DeafBlind, multidisabled, and their families. Founded in 1858, AIDB serves more than 30,000 infants, toddlers, children, adults, and senior citizens with hearing and vision loss throughout Alabama each year.

Our services span a lifetime and include five campuses in Talladega, a statewide network of regional centers, Early Intervention services, traditional and nontraditional educational opportunities in residential, day, and outreach settings, and a manufacturing facility known as Alabama Industries for the Blind (AIB), the state’s largest employer of adults who are Blind. AIDB’s three K-12 schools — Alabama School for the Blind, Alabama School for the Deaf, and Helen Keller School of Alabama — provide specialized educational services that empower students to achieve their full potential.

Our employees are among the organization’s most valuable assets and resources. We share a commitment to leveling the playing field for all. Our mission makes AIDB a unique place to work.

ABOUT THE ROLE

E. H. Gentry Facility is one of the most distinct and comprehensive education and rehabilitation programs in the United States. You will be part of a dynamic team committed to a championship philosophy that underscores the genuine belief in and potential of all individuals. Our employees are among the organization’s most valuable assets and resources and, collectively, we share compassion for leveling the playing field for all. Our Mission makes AIDB a unique place to work and opening the doors to opportunity is where it all begins!

As demand indicates, this position will work in specialized work experience classrooms with students with vision, hearing, or dual sensory loss, in addition to other exceptionalities. The suitable candidate will be passionate about working with students and colleagues to ensure all students receive world-class preparation for work and a career. The successful candidate will primarily work in the Wood Shop, but may also assist with other Work Experience areas including Gentry Manufacturing Training, Modern Manufacturing, Pre-HVAC Fabrication, Automotive and the Joe Tom Armbrester Agricultural Center. The candidate will help with day-to-day tasks such as student attendance, progress reports, outcomes data, payroll and reporting, requisitions, sales invoices, work orders and recommendations for program enhancements.

You will play a vital role to ensure that AIDB’s culture of inclusion is reinforced and that employees feel connected, recognized, and proud to be a part of the organization.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS

Basic Qualifications

Education: High school diploma or equivalent required.
Driver's Licensure & Insurance: Valid driver license and qualify for coverage under the AIDB insurance program. Accommodations may be made for applicants with an exceptionality.

Preferred Qualifications

Specialized Experience: Experience working with individuals with sensory loss, visual impairments, deafness, or dual sensory loss (DeafBlindness).
Trade Background: Experience in Carpentry, Agriculture, Manufacturing, Automotive, HVAC pre-fabrication, or related technical/trade fields.

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES

Instructional & Classroom Assistance

Instructor Support: Perform assigned duties under Instructor direction to assist students with classroom learning and practical exercises.
Student Accommodations: Assist with providing necessary accommodations as needed to support individual student learning and accessibility requirements.
Team Communication: Communicate effectively, follow directions, and work cooperatively with Instructors while actively teaming with other staff members.
Technology Skills: Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite (Word and Excel) and Google G-Suite, including Calendar, Sheets, Docs, and Drive.
Schedule Flexibility: Must have the ability to work a flexible schedule as required by program needs.
Physical & Student Assistance: Must be able to physically assist students, as required, in various work experience classes.
Physical Capability: Must be able to lift 50 lbs. and stand for long periods.

Behavior Management & Conduct

Conduct Enforcement: Explain and enforce conduct/behavior rules to minimize or avoid conflicts between program participants.
Conflict Resolution: Model and facilitate appropriate conflict resolution skills to promote a safe and respectful learning environment.

Professional Development, Safety & Certifications

Disability Awareness Training: Must complete AIDB training on Deafness, Blindness, Visual Impairments, DeafBlindness, and Multiple Disabilities within the first twelve (12) months of employment.
Sign Language Proficiency: Must obtain a sign language proficiency level of SURVIVAL within the first twelve (12) months, SURVIVAL PLUS within the first twenty-four (24) months, and INTERMEDIATE within the first thirty-six (36) months of employment.

Upon offer of employment, the applicant must submit to a fingerprint background check at an agency designated and paid by AIDB. This job description describes the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all job goals, qualifications, and responsibilities, and the employee may be required to perform other related duties as assigned.