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Sighted Guide Jobs in Ontario (NOW HIRING)

CA$28.83/hr

Provide sighted guide and environmental information. * Work collaboratively with the individual who is Deafblind to determine their level of support. * Empower each person to actively participate in ...

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Sighted Guide information

What is a sighted guide?

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 skills and qualifications are needed to be a sighted guide?

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 challenges do sighted guides face and how are they addressed?

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.

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 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, spatial awareness, 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.

What are popular job titles related to Sighted Guide jobs in Ontario?

For Sighted Guide jobs in Ontario, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Sighted Guide jobs in Ontario look for?

The top searched job categories for Sighted Guide jobs in Ontario are:

Infographic showing various Sighted Guide job openings in Ontario as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution.

CA$28.83/hr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

Reports to : Manager, Services and Operations

Rate: $28.83/hour

Watch the job posting in ASL here

Life is a journey full of challenges, dreams, adventure, and fun. At CNIB Deafblind Community Services (DBCS), we believe life for people who are Deafblind should be no different.

DBCS continues to be one of Canada's leading providers of specialized support and emergency services for people who are Deafblind. Our services enable people who are Deafblind to maximize their independence and engagement with the world around them.

We're looking to develop our team with passionate individuals who are interested in making a difference in the lives of others. If that sounds like you, talk to us today about this rewarding career opportunity.

What you'll do for CNIB Deafblind Community Services

A Specialist, Intervenor covers a broad range of duties and responsibilities, including acting as a communicator and sighted guide to individuals with a combined loss of hearing and sight, facilitating the interaction between the individual and their environment:

  • Provide one on one service and support to individuals who are Deafblind in the home or the community.
  • Facilitate access to information for individuals to gather information, and learn concepts and skills to make informed decisions, and facilitate communication.
  • Provide sighted guide and environmental information.
  • Work collaboratively with the individual who is Deafblind to determine their level of support.
  • Empower each person to actively participate in their community, including recreation, education, vocation, self‑advocacy, and learning opportunities, leading to a better sense of social connection.

Who you are:

  • Knowledgeable about the theories and principles of intervention.
  • Knowledgeable about Deafblindness, Deaf/Deafblind culture, and common associated health‑related concerns in all life stages.
  • Strong communicator with excellent interpersonal skills.
  • Self‑motivated and flexible with the ability to multi‑task
  • Able to take initiative, work independently and effectively with minimal supervision.

We want to hear from you if you have:

  • Diploma or degree in the human services field or related experience, working with individuals who are Deafblind would be considered an asset.
  • Experience in or a willingness to learn and practice related alternate formats of communication (i.e. Two‑Hand Manual, American Sign Language); willingness to learn Braille.
  • Experience working with a diverse client population across all socio‑economic and cultural groups.
  • Professional demeanour and ability to build rapport with key stakeholders.
  • Experience with assistive or accessible technology is considered an asset.
  • Ability to travel and work flexible hours.

How to Apply

Contact: Sally Teng, Coordinator, Employee Engagement & Operations

CNIB Deafblind Community Services is committed to Employment Equity and Diversity based on merit, transparency, accessibility, and inclusion ensuring that all candidates are given a fair opportunity. We will provide accommodation, accessible formats and communication supports at every stage of the recruitment and selection process upon request.

Please note:

We thank all applicants for their interest in CNIB Deafblind Community Services, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. While we invite applications from all interested and qualified applicants, we are unable to follow‑up with every applicant.

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