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Sighted Guide Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Intrepid

Cyber Systems Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

We offer opportunity, unique challenges, and clear-sighted commitment to the mission. Objective ... Demonstrated experience serving as a technical lead guiding a defense program through formal SETR ...

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Sighted Guide information

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.

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.

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.
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What job categories do people searching Sighted Guide jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Sighted Guide jobs in Washington are:
Sighted Guide jobs near you
Weekend Visitor Services Representative

Weekend Visitor Services Representative

National Building Museum

Washington, DC • On-site

$18.95/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Retirement

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

The National Building Museum inspires curiosity about the world we design and build.
We are a private non-profit institution that transforms understanding of the history and impact of architecture, engineering, landscape architecture, and design. The National Building Museum educates, entertains, and engages people about the built environment and challenges them to advocate for a sustainable and equitable future.
Position Description
The Visitor Services Representative (VSR) position at the National Building Museum provides exemplary customer service to all visitors and guests. Our front-facing team is integral to the success of the Museum, and we seek individuals who are customer-service orientated, welcoming, and dedicated to providing the absolute best visitor experience for our guests. We are seeking and will be hiring for individuals who can work weekends (Saturday and Sunday) and holidays. The Museum is open from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, and VSR work from 9:15 am to 5:10 pm. There is potential to work evenings during programs and events.
Duties and Responsibilities
  • Provide welcoming, helpful, and exemplary customer service to National Building Museum visitors, including greeting and wayfinding; queuing and line management for individuals and groups; and collecting and documenting visitor feedback. Engage with visitors by answering questions about the Museum and individual exhibitions.
  • Uphold and embody the Museum's core values in the Visitor Services department and throughout the Museum.
  • Stay up to date on the Museum's events, upcoming exhibitions, and policies.
  • Provide special accommodations (i.e., sighted guide visits, wheelchairs, and other accessibility services).
  • Work in a variety of locations within the Museum, including the exhibition galleries, the information desk, and the Visitor Center ticketing/admission desk.
  • With the support of security officers, provide security within Museum exhibitions. Monitor the safety of Museum objects and visitors.
  • Complete daily opening and closing procedures as outlined by Visitor Services Manager and Lead.
  • Assist with managing gallery spaces, including maintaining stock of cleaning supplies, office supplies, and admission desk supplies.

Requirements
Qualifications
  • Must be available to work Saturdays and Sundays.
  • Approachable, friendly demeanor, with a commitment to exemplary customer service.
  • Must be available to work on weekdays, evenings, weekends, and holidays.
  • Ability to interpret and implement Museum protocols, policies, and procedures while exercising good judgment and diplomacy with the public.
  • Dependable and adaptable, flexible, innovative, team player and a problem solver.
  • Must possess strong communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Must be at least 18 years old to apply.
  • Demonstrated ability to manage conflicts and resolve visitor issues.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Customer service, front-facing experience, interest, or demonstrated background in cultural institutions.
  • Interest and/or curiosity about the built environment.
  • Cash-handling, point-of-sale, and ticketing experience.

What We Offer
Part-time employees are eligible for the following benefits:
  • 403 (b) plan with match.
  • Museum Shop discounts.
  • Free on-site parking when available.

ADA Specifications
  • This is an active work position that requires the ability to move about the Museum frequently and to position oneself to interact and communicate appropriately with visitors.
  • Position requires standing up to 7 hours per day.
  • Employee may be responsible for moving objects of up to 20 lbs. when needed.

Salary Description
$18.95/hour

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