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Sighted Guide Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Sighted Guide information

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$39

How much do sighted guide jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 20, 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?

A sighted guide assists individuals with visual impairments by providing verbal descriptions, guiding them safely, and offering support in navigating environments. Key skills include good communication, awareness of surroundings, and patience; training or certification in guiding techniques can enhance effectiveness. The role often involves working in various settings such as public spaces, events, or daily activities.

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, nonprofits, or as an independent contractor.

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 are the best careers for blind people?

Sighted Guide is a role that involves assisting individuals with visual impairments by providing navigation and support. Careers for blind people often include roles in counseling, customer service, computer programming with accessible tools, and advocacy, which can be adapted to various skill levels and interests. Many jobs for visually impaired individuals rely on assistive technologies such as screen readers and braille displays to facilitate work environments.
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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,987 per year, or $19.7 per hour.

Orientation & Mobility Specialist

Adelphi Staffing

Rockville, MD

$55 - $60/hr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Adelphi is seeking an Orientation & Mobility Specialist to provide services to K–12 students who are visually impaired at a school in Maryland. The ideal candidate will support student independence, safe travel, mobility skills, and access to educational and community environments.

Job Quick Facts:
• BD-1434-11
• Profession: Allied Health
• Specialty: Orientation & Mobility Specialist
• Location: Rockville, Maryland
• Facility Type: School
• Job Type: Contract
• Shift Schedule: specific schedule TBC
• Rate: $60/hr

Requirements:
• Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialist credential — COMS issued by ACVREP
• Experience serving school-age visually impaired students required
• Valid driver’s license

Responsibilities:
• Conduct formal O&M assessments and prepare written evaluation reports
• Develop IEP goal recommendations related to orientation and mobility
• Provide direct instruction in indoor/outdoor navigation, cane techniques, sighted guide techniques, sensory efficiency, and community travel
• Support instruction in public transportation and community resource use
• Consult with TVIs, classroom teachers, and educational teams
• Participate in IEP meetings, annual reviews, and eligibility meetings
• Complete routine paperwork, parent contacts, and consultation duties
• Any other duties as assigned within scope