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
Helen Keller School of Alabama
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
Our employees are among the organizations’ most valuable assets and resources. We share compassion for leveling the playing field for all. Our Mission makes AIDB a unique place to work and we invite you to be a part of the miracles that happen every day. A Resident Advisor for the Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind is responsible for providing the highest level of front-line care for our students. Our Resident Advisors make effective decisions and solve problems using sound judgment, guided initiative and teamwork. This role requires excellent listening skills, communication skills, teaching skills, and parenting skills. This role also requires physical ability and stamina, such as frequent standing, walking, recreational activity and lifting.
ABOUT YOU
You will play a vital role in the lives of our visually impaired students by teaching them to become independent in a sighted world. You will become a part of the miracles that happen every day at AIDB. In teaching visually impaired students you will achieve the goal of a productive, independent graduate by demonstrating flexibility, initiative, a positive attitude, professional maturity, a great work ethic and by teaching lifetime skills in our ever-changing world.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- High school diploma or General Educational Diploma.
- Three (3) years of work experience.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Degree from accredited college or university.
- Work experience with individuals with sensory impairment or disabilities.
- Commercial Driver’s License with school bus endorsement.
POSITION REQUIREMENTS
- Must be available to work a flexible schedule to include days, nights, and weekends.
- Must be able to lift 50 pounds, do light housekeeping chores, climb stairs and be able to participate in recreational activities.
- Must obtain a sign language proficiency evaluation of SURVIVAL within 12 months of employment. Survival- Plus must be obtained within twenty- four (24) months of employment.
- Must complete Orientation and Mobility Certification within the first 12 months of employment.
- Must complete and maintain CPR/First Aid, Medication and Behavior Management training within 12 months of employment.
- Must be physically fit to assist with special needs of students who are in wheelchairs or are physically disabled.
- Must complete a Deaf-Blind/Multiple Disabilities e-learning course within the first twelve (12) months of employment.
- Closely monitor and supervise students assigned to the residential unit.
- Communicate effectively and work cooperatively with HKS staff.
- Ensure students observe the proper bedtimes and make routine bed checks.
- Escort students to the cafeteria and supervise students during mealtimes.
- Keep accurate records.
- Administer medicine as needed and keep accurate medication records.
- Escort students to the infirmary as needed.
- Coordinate laundry services, and wash, iron, and assist, as needed.
- Address emergency situations in a calm and logical manner.
- Exhibit professionalism and dress appropriately serving as a good role model to students.
- Teach and model appropriate behaviors for daily living and social interaction.
- Complete and submit daily dormitory chronicles and reports.
- Must be familiar with all emergency procedures and school rules, and enforce all policies, rules, and procedures.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
- Upon offer of employment, the applicant must submit to a fingerprint background check at an agency designated and paid by AIDB
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
SALARY: $16.71-$23.89 HP H (High School Diploma/GED)
$17.66-$25.27 HP HD (Bachelor’s Degree in Education or related field)
Direct deposit required. 187 days
This is a non-exempt position and is subject to overtime provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act.
APPLICATION DEADLINE: September 30,2026
