The posting
Job Description
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 federal laws permit. 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: Residential Advisor
Alabama School for the Blind
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, Deaf Blind, 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
At Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind (AIDB), we believe our employees are our most valuable resource. We are a mission-driven organization dedicated to leveling the playing field for all, and we invite you to be a part of the daily miracles that define our campus life.
As a Resident Advisor, you are the heartbeat of our student support system. You will provide high-level, front-line care, ensuring a safe and nurturing environment where students can thrive. Our RAs are proactive problem-solvers who lead with sound judgment, teamwork, and a deep commitment to student development. This position requires physical stamina for a high-energy environment, including standing, walking, participating in recreational activities, and lifting as needed.
HOW YOU’LL MAKE AN IMPACT
As an RA, you will act as a guide and role model, utilizing exceptional teaching, parenting, and interpersonal skills to support student growth. You will teach essential lifetime skills that prepare students to become productive, independent people in an ever-changing world. RA’s employ active listening and adaptive communication styles to connect with a diverse student body. You will work within a team to make informed decisions and handle a variety of situations. A successful RA leads by example, demonstrating a strong work ethic and a positive attitude.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- One year of work experience.
- Ability to meet suitability criteria for employment
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor’s Degree from accredited college or university.
- Three years of work experience.
- Work experience with individuals with disabilities.
- Commercial Driver’s License with school bus endorsement.
POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES
Student Care & Supervision
- Active Supervision: Maintain close monitoring of students within the residential unit to ensure a safe and supportive environment.
- Daily Routines: Manage morning and evening transitions, including enforcing proper bedtimes and conducting routine safety checks.
- Mealtime Support: Escort students to the cafeteria and provide supervision during meals to foster social development.
- Health & Wellness: Administer medications accurately, maintain meticulous health records, and escort students to the infirmary as required.
- Crisis Management: Respond to emergency situations with a calm, logical, and decisive approach.
Instruction & Mentorship
- Life Skills Coaching: Teach and model essential daily living skills, social interactions, and appropriate behaviors to foster student independence.
- Role Modeling: Maintain a high level of professionalism in conduct and attire, serving as a positive example for all students.
- Laundry Coordination: Oversee laundry services and provide hands-on assistance with washing and ironing as part of life-skills training.
Communication & Administration
- Reporting: Prepare and submit accurate daily dormitory chronicles and administrative reports.
- Team Collaboration: Communicate effectively and work cooperatively with all ASB staff to ensure cohesive student care.
Physical & Scheduling Requirements
- Operational Flexibility: Ability to work a flexible schedule, including days, evenings, and weekends.
- Physical Stamina: Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs., climb stairs, perform light housekeeping, and actively participate in student recreational activities.
Professional Development and Certifications
- Safety Certifications: Obtain and maintain CPR/First Aid, Medication Administration, and Behavior Management certifications within the first 12 months.
- Specialized Training: Complete Basics of Blindness and Low Vision e-Learning course and Orientation and Mobility Certification within the first 12 months.
- Braille Proficiency: Demonstrate competency in reading and writing Braille by scoring 80% or higher on the AIDB Braille Skills Assessment within the first 24 months.
- Policy Adherence: Maintain thorough knowledge of all school rules and emergency procedures, ensuring consistent enforcement of campus policies.
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.
MANDATORY ANNUAL TRAINING:
- Behavior Management certification
- CPR – every 2 years
- Blood Borne Pathogens
- Using an AED
- Mandatory Reporting – DHR
- Policy and Procedure Review
- Erin’s Law
- Jason Flatt Act
BENEFITS: Health, Dental and Vision Insurance Available
Alabama State TRS Retirement
Deferred Compensation Options Available
Paid Time Off
On-site Daycare
Paid Holidays
SALARY: $16.14- $23.32 HP 40 (High School Diploma/GED)
$17.09 - $24.71 HP 42 (Bachelor’s Degree in Education or related field)
187 days
Direct deposit required.
This is a non-exempt position and is subject to overtime provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act.
Deadline: Open Until Filled
About Us
The 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 and
multi-disabled and their families. Founded in 1858, AIDB serves more than 30,000 infants, toddlers,
children, adults and seniors with hearing and vision loss throughout Alabama each year. Our services
literally span a lifetime including five campuses in Talladega, ten regional centers located in
Birmingham, Dothan, Huntsville, Mobile, Montgomery, Talladega, Tuscaloosa, Tuscumbia, Opelika
and Decatur with programs that range from early and senior intervention, traditional and
nontraditional education services in residential and outreach settings and a manufacturing facility that
is the state’s largest employer of adults who are blind and deaf.
