Rehabilitation Technology Specialist

Rehabilitation Technology Specialist

Salary

$61,713.60 - $95,680.00 Annually

Location

Des Moines - 50309 - Polk County, IA

Job Type

Full-time

Job Number

26-03058

Agency

131 Iowa Department for the Blind

Opening Date

05/12/2026

Closing Date

8/12/2026 11:59 PM Central

LinkedIn Tag

#LI-DNP

Point of Contact

Keri Osterhaus Keri.Osterhaus@blind.state.ia.us

To Apply

All applications must be submitted through the State of Iowa job application site at https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/iowa. Applicants are strongly encouraged to attach both a cover letter and resume to their online application

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

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.

What We're Looking For (Skills & Experience)

This role is centered on assistive technology, nonvisual access, and Braille literacy. We're looking for candidates who bring a combination of technical skill, teaching ability, and a passion for accessibility.

Core Capabilities (Required)

• Ability to teach and support the use of assistive technology, including screen readers, magnifiers, braille displays, smartphones, tablets, and computers
• Ability to use and teach technology non visually (without reliance on sight), modeling effective techniques for individuals who are blind or have low vision
• Proficiency in contracted Braille, including the ability to read, write, and teach Braille in practical applications (e.g., braille notetakers, displays, and related technology)
• Experience teaching, training, or coaching others, with the ability to adapt instruction based on different learning styles
• Strong ability to translate technical concepts into clear, understandable language for nontechnical audiences
• Experience troubleshooting and resolving complex technology issues, using available tools and resources
• Ability to evaluate and recommend technology solutions based on individual needs and real-world environments
• Strong written communication skills, including the ability to produce clear, thorough reports and documentation
• Willingness and ability to travel regularly statewide, including overnight stays

Highly Valued Experience

• Direct experience working with assistive or accessibility technology used by individuals who are blind or have low vision
• Experience teaching blindness skills, including Braille and nonvisual technology use
• Experience supporting individuals in education, vocational rehabilitation, or workplace settings
• Familiarity with digital accessibility (documents, workplace systems, etc.)

Important Note: We recognize that candidates may have developed these skills through hands-on experience, training roles, rehabilitation services, IT support, education, or lived experience. A traditional engineering or technical degree is not required.

A traditional engineering or technical degree is not required.

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 with major coursework in civil, industrial, mechanical, architectural, electrical or rehabilitation engineering and experience equal to one year of full-time work in the design, development and fabrication of mechanical or electrical components or assemblies for products such as industrial equipment, machinery, power equipment, service systems, machine tools and measuring instruments;

OR

an equivalent combination of education and experience substituting one year of professional work experience as indicated above for one year (thirty semester or equivalent hours) of the required education to a maximum of four years.

For additional information, please click on this link to view the job description.

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-friendly Total Compensation Calculator. 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.

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 to explore more about our unparalleled benefits and discover what makes us unique. Your success is our priority!

01

Do you understand that the answers to all of the following questions must be truthful, honest, and accurate to the best of your ability? Please read all questions and answers thoroughly and make sure you understand them completely. Ensure the answers to your questions match the information filled out on your application and the attachments you have uploaded. If the answers to your questions are inconsistent with your application information or uploaded attachments, you will be given zero points for the question. Knowingly misrepresenting the facts when submitting any information related to an application, examination, certification, appeal, or any other facet of the selection process will result in your disqualification from this application and future employment with the state of Iowa.

• Yes - I understand and agree.
• No

02

PLEASE READ CAREFULLY

Have you filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. §611 et seq?

• No - I have NOT filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. §611 et seq
• Yes - I HAVE filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. §611 et seq

03

Have you graduated from an accredited college or university with major coursework in civil, industrial, mechanical, architectural, electrical or rehabilitation engineering? IF YES - How many months do you have of full-time work experience in the design, development and fabrication of mechanical or electrical components or assemblies for products such as industrial equipment, machinery, power equipment, service systems, machine tools and measuring instruments?

• I have not graduated from an accredited college or university with major coursework in the identified areas
• Less than 12 months of work experience in the identified areas
• 12 months or more of work experience in the identified areas

04

How many years do you have of a combination of coursework in in civil, industrial, mechanical, architectural, electrical or rehabilitation engineering AND/OR full time experience in the design, development and fabrication of mechanical or electrical components or assemblies for products such as industrial equipment, machinery, power equipment, service systems, machine tools and measuring instruments? 30 semester hours equals one year of experience. A maximum of 120 semester hours (four years) of education many be counted.

• I do not have any of the education and experience in the identified areas
• Less than five years of a combination of the identified education and experience
• Five years or more of a combination of the identified education and experience

Required Question

Employer State of Iowa

Agency 131 Iowa Department for the Blind Address 524 4th St

Des Moines, Iowa, 50309

Website https://blind.iowa.gov/