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$20.5K

$52.3K

$119.5K

How much do orientation mobility instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for orientation mobility instructor in the United States is $52,325.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,000.00 and $60,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Orientation Mobility Instructor vs Orientation and Mobility Specialist?

AspectOrientation Mobility InstructorOrientation and Mobility Specialist
CredentialsCPM or COMS certification, relevant degreesCPM or COMS certification, advanced degrees often preferred
Work EnvironmentSchools, rehabilitation centers, community programsRehabilitation clinics, schools, private practice
Employer & IndustryEducational and rehabilitation settings for visually impairedHealthcare, rehabilitation, educational institutions

Both roles focus on teaching mobility skills to visually impaired individuals, often requiring similar certifications. The main difference lies in scope: Orientation and Mobility Specialists may have a broader or more advanced role, often working in healthcare settings, while Orientation Mobility Instructors typically work in educational or community environments. Both are essential for helping individuals achieve independence.

What are some common challenges Orientation Mobility Instructors face when working with clients, and how can they be addressed?

Orientation Mobility Instructors often encounter challenges such as varying levels of client motivation, differing learning speeds, and adapting techniques for clients with additional disabilities. Addressing these challenges involves creating individualized lesson plans, maintaining clear communication with clients and their support networks, and staying flexible in instructional approaches. Collaborating closely with other specialists and regularly participating in professional development also helps instructors remain effective and responsive to each client's unique needs.

What is an Orientation Mobility Instructor?

An Orientation Mobility Instructor is a professional who teaches individuals who are blind or visually impaired how to travel safely and independently in their environments. They provide training in skills such as using a white cane, understanding spatial relationships, and navigating public transportation. Their goal is to help clients build confidence and independence in moving through both familiar and unfamiliar settings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Orientation Mobility Instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Orientation Mobility Instructor, you need expertise in instructing individuals with visual impairments, a bachelor's degree (often in special education or a related field), and national certification such as COMS (Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialist). Familiarity with assistive technologies, GPS navigation tools, and mobility aids like canes is typically required. Strong interpersonal communication, patience, and problem-solving skills help build trust and adapt instruction to each learner's needs. These competencies are vital for promoting independence, safety, and confidence in individuals navigating their environments.
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Orientation Mobility Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Orientation Mobility Instructor job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 57% Full Time, 38% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,325 per year, or $25.2 per hour.
Orientation and Mobility Specialist l/II, The Hatlen Center

Orientation and Mobility Specialist l/II, The Hatlen Center

Wayfinder Family Services

Sacramento, CA

$31.25 - $38.46/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

At Wayfinder Family Services, we understand the unique challenges facing some of our state’s most vulnerable children, youth and adults. Those with disabilities, those without a home of their own, those who have been abused and many, many more. We answer the call for them. We believe in the amazing potential in, and for, each and every one of them. And, together, we find a way to turn that potential into reality.  

Program and Role Summary

Wayfinder’s Hatlen Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired, founded in 1972 by visionary Phil Hatlen in San Pablo, California, revolutionized education for individuals with visual impairments. As the first transition program of its kind in the United States, it set the gold standard for fostering independence and remains the only program of its kind in the nation. The Hatlen Center is recognized as a pioneer in the field of visual impairment education and continues to stand alone in its unique approach to empowering students.

The primary focus of the Orientation and Mobility Specialist is to organize, plan and implement orientation and mobility services for adults who are blind and visually impaired and who may or may not have additional disabilities. In addition, O&M instructors at The Hatlen Center are responsible for planning and implementing financial management curriculum for several students, acting as case managers. This position reports directly to the Program Manager of the Hatlen Center.

The hourly wage range for this role is $31.25 - $38.46.

Primary Responsibilities:

  • Develop and carry out a program of individualized Orientation and Mobility instruction that may include pre-cane skills, cane skills, concept development, indoor travel, street crossings, travel in a variety of environments, use of public transportation including paratransit, group travel, occasional work with dog guide teams, use of orientation and mobility aids (maps, monoculars, assistive technology), and route planning.
  • Emphasize the effective use of any residual vision, tactile and other sensory modes, and reinforces learning associated with other areas of instruction.
  • Make careful observations and evaluations concerning clients’ progress and maintain detailed tracking notes.  Prepare reports as required.
  • Participate in and develop curriculum for weekly group classes across a variety of subjects.
  • Cooperate and consult with other staff members and appropriate community resources on behalf of the client. Act as an integral member of the rehabilitation team coordinating orientation and mobility skills training and financial management training with other client services.
  • Participate in applicant interviews and help to determine the appropriateness of client placement at The Hatlen Center.
  • Participate in departmental and agency-wide planning and evaluation functions.  Make recommendations concerning orientation and mobility skills training/financial management training and future planning.
  • Maintain accurate records of all inventories in the teaching area.
  • Other duties as outlined in the position description.

Education and Experience: Orientation and Mobility Specialist l

  • A master’s degree in special education, rehabilitation, or related field with an emphasis in orientation and mobility from an accredited university is required.
  • New graduates are welcome to apply.
  • Knowledge of all areas of adaptive equipment is required for individuals who are blind or visually impaired is required.

Education and Experience: Orientation and Mobility Specialist ll

  • A master’s degree in special education, rehabilitation, or related field with an emphasis in orientation and mobility from an accredited university is required.
  • Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialist (COMS) certification through Academy for Certification of Vision Rehabilitation & Education Professionals (ACVREP) required.
  • Knowledge of all areas of adaptive equipment is required for individuals who are blind or visually impaired is required.

Benefits: Wayfinder is committed to providing our employees with a benefits program that is both comprehensive and competitive which includes:

  • Paid Time Off: Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) policy, 11 paid holidays, plus five winter holidays
  • Medical, dental, vision, life, and long-term disability insurance
  • 401(k) retirement plan with employer match up to 4% 
  • Employee referral program: Encourage your colleagues to join us
  • Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) eligible
  • Flexible spending account (FSA) plans 
  • Eligibility and other benefits are outlined in plan documents

Wayfinder Family Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We support a drug-free workplace and conduct pre-employment background and drug screenings.

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