PROGRAM SPECIALIST COMMISSION FOR THE BLIND AND VISUALLY IMPAIRED

Code: 64489 State Competitive Range: R26 (FY 2027) Work week NL: FLSA exemptOvertime table (4A:3, Appx. A)

Salary: $83,582.01 - $122,831.91/year FY 2027 schedule (last updated 2026-07-27)

Official job specification

The text below is the official specification published by the New Jersey Civil Service Commission. The plain-language summary and analysis above are derived from it by NJ Civil Service Navigator. Source: the official specification page at NJ CSC.

Definition

Under the supervision of the Executive Director, Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired, or other supervisory officer in the Department of Human Services, acts as consultant in the preparation of grant applications for the blind and visually impaired; adheres to regulations and guidelines imposed by the funding government agency; evaluates vocational rehabilitation programs in State institutions; coordinates Commission activities with other State agencies serving the blind and visually impaired; does other related duties.

Examples of work

Supervises and evaluates those State vocational rehabilitation programs under the control of the Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired which are developed with Federal matching funds. Assists in the preparation of grant applications; reviews all completed grant applications to ensure compliance with funding agency requirements. Keeps current of new legislation concerning the blind and visually impaired, especially with regard to grant aid programs. Establishes, coordinates and maintains liaison relationships with other State agencies and organizations which serve the blind and visually impaired in the areas of rehabilitation, health, education and welfare programs Provides information and direction on statewide programs for the rehabilitation of blind and visually impaired. Oversees reports required by the Federal Office of the Vocational Rehabilitation Administration. Assists in the modification and updating of statewide plans. Provides information regarding agency services. Identifies and utilizes community resources for the benefit of the blind and visually impaired. Prepares reports. May supervise the work operations and/or functional programs and has responsibility for effectively recommending the hiring, firing, promoting, demoting and/or disciplining of employees. Maintains records and files. Will be required to learn to utilize various types of electronic and/or manual recording and information systems used by the agency, office, or related units.

License

Appointees will be required to possess a driver's license valid in NJ only if the operation of a vehicle, rather than employee mobility, is necessary to perform essential duties of the position.

Knowledge, skills and abilities

Knowledge of the particular psychological, rehabilitation, employment, or other needs of the blind or visually impaired. Knowledge of the theory, principles, methods, and techniques of vocational placement and guidance as applied to the blind or visually impaired. Knowledge of specialized training, aptitudes, capabilities, and degree of physical strength, flexibility and dexterity required for certain occupations and activities. Knowledge of public and private funding sources and the procedures involved in their procurement. Knowledge of Federal and State programs related to rehabilitation programs for the blind and visually impaired. Knowledge of the methods and procedures used in submitting proposals to federal and state government and/or private foundations. Ability to evaluate programs and services. Ability to oversee programs in terms of federal, State, and Commission requirements. Ability to act as a consultant and advisor to existing program and community groups. Ability to participate in special studies and surveys. Ability to supervise the activities of staff engaged in providing services to the blind and visually impaired. Ability to read and interpret laws, rules and regulations and apply them to specific situations. Ability to prepare applications for federal, state and other monies. Ability to establish and maintain cooperative work relationships with associates and others interested in the work of the unit. Ability to prepare reports. Ability to utilize various types of electronic and/or manual recording and information systems used by the agency, office, or related units. Ability to read, write, speak, understand, and communicate in English sufficiently to perform duties of this position. American Sign Language or Braille may also be considered as acceptable forms of communication. Persons with mental or physical disabilities are eligible as long as they can perform essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation. If the accommodation cannot be made because it would cause the employer undue hardship, such persons may not be eligible.

Note

The examples of work for this title are for illustrative purposes only. A particular position using this title may not perform all duties listed in this job specification. Conversely, all duties performed on the job may not be listed. Applicants must meet one of the following or a combination of both experience and education. Thirty (30) semester hour credits are equal to one (1) year of relevant experience. Seven (7) years of professional experience in the field of vocational rehabilitation, education, or social work with the blind and/or visually impaired individuals. OR Possession of a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university; and three (3) years of the above-mentioned professional experience. OR Possession of a master's degree in psychology, sociology, education, guidance and counseling, social work or rehabilitation from an accredited college or university; and two (2) years of the above-mentioned professional experience. "Professional experience" refers to work that is creative, analytical, evaluative, and interpretive; requires a range and depth of specialized knowledge of the profession's principles, concepts, theories, and practices; and is performed with the authority to act according to one's own judgment and make accurate and informed decisions.