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Sighted Guide Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AEC Student Services Assistant

Upland, IN · On-site

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

Serve as a sighted guide for a blind or low vision student Typical Qualifications * Proficiency in reading the English language aloud * Ability to clearly articulate the English language as it is ...

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Sighted Guide information

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$7

$19

$39

How much do sighted guide jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for sighted guide in the United States is $19.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.70 and $19.95 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges sighted guides face when assisting individuals with visual impairments, and how are these typically addressed on the job?

Sighted guides often encounter challenges such as navigating unfamiliar or crowded environments, maintaining clear communication, and adapting to the individual preferences of those they assist. To address these, guides receive training in effective guiding techniques, including verbal cues and tactile feedback, and learn to anticipate and respond to the needs of the person they are guiding. Team collaboration is also important, as guides frequently coordinate with mobility specialists, family members, or event organizers to ensure safe and seamless experiences.

How to be a sighted guide?

To be a sighted guide, you should develop good communication skills, demonstrate patience, and be attentive to the needs of the person you are assisting. Training in orientation and mobility techniques, as well as understanding how to navigate different environments safely, is often recommended. Being reliable, empathetic, and aware of safety protocols is essential for effective guiding.

Who is the largest employer of blind people?

The federal government is one of the largest employers of blind and visually impaired individuals, offering various jobs including roles for sighted guides and other support positions. Many organizations also employ blind people in fields such as customer service, administration, and technology, often providing accommodations and assistive tools to support their work.

What are sighted guides?

Sighted guides are individuals who assist people who are blind or visually impaired in navigating their environment safely and efficiently. They use specific techniques, such as guiding by the arm, to help direct and protect the person they are assisting. Sighted guides are trained to communicate clearly, describe surroundings, and anticipate obstacles, ensuring a comfortable experience for the person being guided. Their support can be essential in unfamiliar or busy environments, as well as in everyday activities.

What is the difference between Sighted Guide vs Orientation and Mobility Specialist?

AspectSighted GuideOrientation and Mobility Specialist
CredentialsMay include training in guiding techniques, certification variesTypically requires certification in orientation and mobility, such as COMS
Work EnvironmentAssisting individuals in public, indoor, and outdoor settingsTeaching mobility skills, assessments, and training in various environments
Industry UsageCommonly used in community and personal assistanceUsed in rehabilitation, educational, and clinical settings

While both roles support individuals with visual impairments, a Sighted Guide primarily assists by providing physical guidance during mobility, whereas an Orientation and Mobility Specialist offers comprehensive training to develop independent travel skills. The specialist's role is broader, involving assessment and instruction, while the Sighted Guide focuses on immediate assistance.

How to make money as a blind person?

A sighted guide can earn income by providing assistance to visually impaired individuals, often through personal care, navigation, or companionship services. These roles typically require good communication skills, patience, and sometimes certification or training in disability assistance. Opportunities may include working for agencies, offering private services, or through community programs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Sighted Guide, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Sighted Guide, you need a solid understanding of guiding techniques, awareness of mobility safety, and basic knowledge of visual impairment, which is often gained through specialized training or certification. Familiarity with orientation and mobility tools, as well as first aid certifications, is typically expected. Exceptional communication, patience, and empathy are essential soft skills to support and reassure individuals with visual impairments. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring the safety, confidence, and independence of those being guided.

What high paying jobs can blind people do?

Sighted Guide is a role that involves assisting visually impaired individuals, often offering competitive pay depending on experience and setting. Other high-paying jobs for blind or visually impaired people include roles in technology such as software development, customer service, and remote work that rely on skills, training, and accessible tools like screen readers. These positions often require specialized skills, certifications, or adaptive technologies to ensure effective performance.
More about Sighted Guide jobs
What cities are hiring for Sighted Guide jobs? Cities with the most Sighted Guide job openings:
What states have the most Sighted Guide jobs? States with the most job openings for Sighted Guide jobs include:
Infographic showing various Sighted Guide job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 14% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,987 per year, or $19.7 per hour.

Read Mail with a Blind Woman in Canton, MA!

Massachusetts Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired

Canton, MA • On-site

$17 - $19.75/hr

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

This MABVI participant would like a volunteer to help them in Canton, MA! A car is needed for this volunteer role. They would like to have volunteer help once a week or bimonthly.

The Massachusetts Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired (MABVI) is seeking volunteers who are interested in a relationship-building and task-oriented role! Do you enjoy making a connection with someone in your community? Do you want to make a positive impact in the life of a neighbor in need?

Join a team of over 200 volunteers across the state that helps create a difference in the blind and low vision community!

As a MABVI Volunteer, you may help with tasks such as:

    1. Reading mail
    2. Paying bills
    3. Internet Use/Technology
    4. Medical Transportation
    5. Going grocery shopping
    6. Running errands in the community
    7. Recreational activities such as being a running/walking sighted guide
    8. Other Clerical tasks

Time Commitment: This opportunity is flexible based on your match's needs. Although, volunteers typically devote 1-2 hours a week or every other week.

The Volunteer Onboarding Process Includes:

  1. Complete a MABVI Volunteer application

2. Completing the online, modular MABVI Volunteer Training

3. Schedule a time to chat via Zoom with a member of the MABVI Volunteer Team/Submit a CORI

4. Meet the MABVI Volunteer Team via Zoom or phone call

5. MABVI matches you with a MABVI participant!