The Blind Rehabilitation Assistant Chief has responsibility for administering many aspects of a large VA inpatient blind rehabilitation program of more than 20 beds. The position of Assistant Chief requires mastery of the broad functional areas of blind and vision theory, practice and specialized knowledge in specific areas including research methodology. The Blind Rehabilitation Assistant Chief has supervisory authority over the assigned FTEE.
Summary
The Blind Rehabilitation Assistant Chief has responsibility for administering many aspects of a large VA inpatient blind rehabilitation program of more than 20 beds. The position of Assistant Chief requires mastery of the broad functional areas of blind and vision theory, practice and specialized knowledge in specific areas including research methodology. The Blind Rehabilitation Assistant Chief has supervisory authority over the assigned FTEE.
Duties include but are not limited to the following:
Provide supervisions of key clinical and training programs, including the overall technical oversight of the Blind Rehabilitation Specialists whom they administratively supervise.
Responsible for the development and implementation of policies and procedures to address focused clinical needs and the overall services delivered and provided within the section.
Performs responsibilities that include, but are not limited to, assigning work to employees, monitoring workload and clinical volume, staffing, imposing disciplinary measures and monitoring clinical privileges.
Demonstrates knowledge of contemporary blind and vision rehabilitation across multiple areas of practice, and the demonstrated ability to apply this knowledge to provide clinical guidance to staff Blind Rehabilitation Specialists within the department.
Applies knowledge of human resources administration, including such functions as the ability to interview and select qualified applicants, monitor and evaluate performance, and maintain effective labor management relations within scope of responsibility.
Demonstrates the ability and skills to effectively supervise, direct, and manage a diverse staff including conflict resolution.
Proven capability to analyze clinically appropriate data to optimize quality, performance, and productivity within the section.
Exhibited expertise to set priorities, delegate tasks, and solve problems in order to meet multiple deadlines and identify/address organizational problems.
Provides supervision of key clinical and training programs and assigned staff, including the overall technical oversight of the students whom they administratively supervise.
Furnishes overall clinical supervision that assures the proper coordination and delivery of care within the blind rehabilitation section and the facility at large.
Supervises employees work assignments, workload productivity, and problems must be well managed by the supervisor.
Understands and adheres to federal regulations regarding staffing practices.
Comprehends recruitment options and collaborates with GS-14 Service Chief and HR throughout the staffing process (recruiting, hiring, staffing).
Takes an active role in prevention of harassment behavior, adheres to Whistleblower Protection policies, and takes action to report instances of fraud, waste, and abuse.
Resolves employee issues/complaints at the lowest level and refers unresolved grievances and complaints to appropriate sources.
Promotes and ensures a safe work environment; enforces policies and procedures (operational, privacy, IT security, Patient Safety, etc.).
Ensures utilization of material and labor resources to optimize productivity and adjusts services to meet changing needs of all persons served.
May have delegated responsibilities on service-line, medical center-wide, division-wide or program-wide committees, special projects, and task forces.
Assists in the development of guidelines, policies, procedures and their implementation within the Blind Rehabilitation Service in VA central office.
Work Schedule: Monday - Friday 07:30:am - 4:00 pm Telework: Not Available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Position Title/Functional Statement #:Supervisory Blind Rehabilitation Specialist (Assistant Chief)/PD000000 Financial Disclosure Report: Not required
All applicants tentatively selected for VA employment in a testing designated position are subject to urinalysis to screen for illegal drug use prior to appointment. Applicants who refuse to be tested will be denied employment with VA.
Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959
You may be required to serve a trial period
Subject to a background/security investigation
Must be proficient in written and spoken English
Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process
Qualifications
Basic Requirements: United States Citizenship: Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy.
A. English language: Proficient in spoken and written English. Note: To be appointed under authority of 38 U.S.C., Chapter 73 or 74, to serve in a direct patient-care capacity in Veterans Health Administration (VHA), applicants must be proficient in written and spoken English.
B. Basic Education: A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with a major field of study in blind or vision rehabilitation, related program in rehabilitation, special education, family and consumer science education, technology and industrial arts education, or health care;(b) A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university (without a major field of study as outlined in (a) above) that included or was supplemented by at least one of the following:(b1) At least 30 semester hours of directly related, upper level undergraduate courses (e.g., at least 200-course level or higher, or as identified by the college or university).(B2) One full year of directly related graduate level coursework (typically at least 15-18 semester hours)(b3) A certificate in the core curriculum in orientation and mobility, vision rehabilitation therapy or low vision therapy from an accredited college or university and a directly related practicum/internship in the occupation, either included in the degree or post-degree.]
C. Certification:
(1) Applicants must possess at least one active, current, full and unrestricted certification to be eligible for appointment. Certification must be granted by the Academy for Certification of Vision Rehabilitation & Education Professionals (ACVREP), or another equivalent, closely related professional credential in special education or rehabilitation.
NOTE: The ACVREP administers four certification programs: Low Vision Therapy, Orientation and Mobility, Assistive Technology Instruction and Vision Rehabilitation Therapy. They may then use the designation for the certification they hold (as listed in subparagraph (2)) below:
(2) BRS who provide the following service must obtain certification granted by ACVREP as follows:
(a) Orientation and mobility training - Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialists (COMS).
(b) Communication and daily living therapy - Certified Vision Rehabilitation Therapists (CVRT).
Experience. In addition to meeting the basic requirements, completion of one year of experience as a BRS equivalent to the GS-12 grade level.
Certification. Candidates must meet the credentialing/certification requirements in paragraph 3c(1) and (2) above. VIST Coordinators must meet the certification requirements in 3c(3) above.
Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities. In addition to meeting the KSAs described at the GS-12 grade level, the candidate must demonstrate all the following KSAs:
a) Ability to balance responsibilities and work with great autonomy.
(b) Ability to organize work, set priorities, delegate tasks, meet multiple deadlines, analyze organizational problems, and develop and implement effective solutions.
(c) Ability to analyze and use data effectively to manage workload, quality, performance, and productivity within the section, and to develop and administer systematic internal reviews to ensure conformance with local and national policies as well as accreditation standards.
(d) Ability to provide technical expertise, supervise, motivate, and effectively manage a diverse clinical staff.
(e) Skill in assessing qualifications and abilities of current and prospective employees.
(f) Ability to develop productivity standards applicable to a blind rehabilitation center or equivalent clinical program.
(g) Ability to adapt to new and changing work conditions, staffing, and contingencies.
Preferred Experience:
Experience administering and interpreting assessments specific to blind/vision rehabilitation and use of assessment findings to develop a plan of care, including complex plans with consultation from the interdisciplinary team.
Experience identifying and evaluating assistive devices appropriate for use with blind and/or visually impaired population.
Experience supervising or serving in a formal lead role for Blind Rehabilitation Specialists or an interdisciplinary blind/vision rehabilitation team, including assigning work, monitoring productivity, conducting performance evaluations, coaching employees, and addressing performance or conduct concerns.
Demonstrated experience coordinating care in a residential, inpatient, intensive outpatient, or similarly complex rehabilitation setting, including interdisciplinary treatment planning, patient flow, admissions, discharges, and continuity of care.
References: VA Handbook 5005/48; Part II Appendix G41 Blind Rehabilitation Specialist Qualification Standard
Physical Requirements: Blind Rehabilitation Specialist Functional Requirements: Moderate lifting (15- 44 lbs.); Moderate Carrying (15-44 lbs.); Reaching above shoulder; Use of fingers; Both hands required; Both Legs required; Specific hearing requirements; Ability to read typewritten material, glasses permitted; Hearing (aid permitted)
Education
IMPORTANT: A transcript must be submitted with your application if you are basing all or part of your qualifications on education.
Note: Only education or degrees recognized by the U.S. Department of Education from accredited colleges, universities, schools, or institutions may be used to qualify for Federal employment. You can verify your education here: http://ope.ed.gov/accreditation/. If you are using foreign education to meet qualification requirements, you must send a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript in order to receive credit for that education. For further information, visit: http://www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ous/international/usnei/us/edlite-visitus-forrecog.html.
Additional information
Receiving Service Credit for Earning Annual (Vacation) Leave: Federal Employees earn annual leave at a rate (4, 6 or 8 hours per pay period) which is based on the number of years they have served as a Federal employee. Selected applicants may qualify for credit toward annual leave accrual, based on prior work experience or military service experience. This credited service can be used in determining the rate at which they earn annual leave. Such credit must be requested and approved prior to the appointment date and is not guaranteed.
During the application process you may have an option to opt-in to make your resume available to hiring managers in the agency who have similar positions. Opting in does not impact your application for this announcement, nor does it guarantee further consideration for additional positions.
This job opportunity announcement may be used to fill additional vacancies.
This position is in the Excepted Service and does not confer competitive status.VA encourages persons with disabilities to apply. The health-related positions in VA are covered by Title 38, and are not covered by the Schedule A excepted appointment authority.
If you are unable to apply online or need an alternate method to submit documents, please reach out to the Agency Contact listed in this Job Opportunity Announcement.
Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.
How you will be evaluated
You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.
IN DESCRIBING YOUR EXPERIENCE, PLEASE BE CLEAR AND SPECIFIC. WE MAY NOT MAKE ASSUMPTIONS REGARDING YOUR EXPERIENCE. Your application, resume, C.V., and/or supporting documentation will be verified. Please follow all instructions carefully. Errors or omissions may affect consideration for employment.Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religions; spiritual; community; student; social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.The Department of Veterans Affairs performs pre-employment reference checks as an assessment method used in the hiring process to verify information provided by a candidate (e.g., on resume or during interview or hiring process); gain additional knowledge regarding a candidate's abilities; and assist a hiring manager with making a final selection for a position.It is the policy of the VA to not deny employment to those that have faced financial hardships or periods of unemployment.
Veterans and Transitioning Service Members: Please visit the VA for Vets site for career-search tools for Veterans seeking employment at VA, career development services for our existing Veterans, and coaching and reintegration support for military service members.
A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.
To apply for this position, you must provide a complete Application Package which includes:
Certification from the Academy for Certification of Vision Rehabilitation & Education Professionals (ACVREP), or another equivalent.
ACVREP in ONE of the following: Orientation and Mobility (COMS) OR Vision Rehab (CVRT) OR Certified Low Vision (CLVT) OR Vision Rehabilitation (CVRT)
Special Note for Applications: To complete your application, please use the following link https://vacareers.va.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/Resume.docx to download the standard Clinical Resume Document. This one-page document does not need to be modified and must be uploaded into the two-page restricted 'Resume' document upload field.Your full resume/CV may be uploaded without page limitation into the 'Other' document upload field.
The following documents are accepted, and may be required if applicable to your eligibility and/or qualifications for this position. Please ensure you have included all documents required for your application, such as a copy of your transcript (if using education to qualify), SF-50's (current/former Federal employees), etc.
DD-214/ Statement of Service
Disability Letter (VA)
License
Long-form resume/Curriculum vitae (CV)
Certification from the Academy for Certification of Vision Rehabilitation & Education Professionals (ACVREP), or another equivalent.
ACVREP in ONE of the following: Orientation and Mobility (COMS) OR Vision Rehab (CVRT) OR Certified Low Vision (CLVT) OR Vision Rehabilitation (CVRT)
PCS Orders
Professional Certification
SF-15
SF-50/ Notification of Personnel Action
Transcript
If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:
Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.
All applicants are encouraged to apply online. To apply for this position, you must complete the full questionnaire and submit the documentation specified in the Required Documents section below. The complete application package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (ET) on 10/02/2026 to receive consideration. To preview the questionnaire click https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/13068575.
To begin, click Apply Online to create a USAJOBS account or log in to your existing account. Follow the prompts to select your USA JOBS resume and/or other supporting documents and complete the occupational questionnaire.
Click Submit My Answers to submit your application package.
NOTE: It is your responsibility to ensure your responses and appropriate documentation is submitted prior to the closing date.
Long Beach VA Medical Center
5901 East Seventh Street
Long Beach, CA 90822
US
Next steps
Once your online application is submitted you will receive a confirmation notification by email. After we receive application packages (including all required documents) and the vacancy announcement closes, we will review applications to ensure qualification and eligibility requirements are met. After the review is complete, a referral certificate(s) is issued and applicants will be notified of their status by email. Referred applicants will be notified as such and may be contacted directly by the hiring office for an interview. All referred applicants receive a final notification once a selection decision has been made.You may check the status of your application at any time by logging into your USA Jobs account and clicking on Applications. Information regarding your application status can be found in the USAJobs Help Center.
NOTE: Participation in the seasonal influenza program is a condition of employment and a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP). It is a requirement that all HCP to receive annual seasonal influenza vaccination or obtain an exemption for medical or religious reasons. Wearing a face mask is required when an exemption to the influenza vaccination has been granted. HCP in violation of this directive may face disciplinary action up to and including removal from federal service. HCP are individuals who, during the influenza season, work in VHA locations or who come into contact with VA patients or other HCP as part of their duties. VHA locations include, but are not limited to, VA hospitals and associated clinics, community living centers (CLCs), community-based outpatient clinics (CBOCs), domiciliary units, Vet centers and VA-leased medical facilities. HCP include all VA licensed and unlicensed, clinical and administrative, remote and onsite, paid and without compensation, full- and part-time employees, intermittent employees, fee basis employees, VA contractors, researchers, volunteers and health professions trainees (HPTs) who are expected to perform any or all of their work at these facilities. HPTs may be paid or unpaid and include residents, interns, fellows and students. HCP also includes VHA personnel providing home-based care to Veterans and drivers and other personnel whose duties put them in contact with patients outside VA medical facilities.
The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.
To apply for this position, you must provide a complete Application Package which includes:
Certification from the Academy for Certification of Vision Rehabilitation & Education Professionals (ACVREP), or another equivalent.
ACVREP in ONE of the following: Orientation and Mobility (COMS) OR Vision Rehab (CVRT) OR Certified Low Vision (CLVT) OR Vision Rehabilitation (CVRT)
Special Note for Applications: To complete your application, please use the following link https://vacareers.va.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/Resume.docx to download the standard Clinical Resume Document. This one-page document does not need to be modified and must be uploaded into the two-page restricted 'Resume' document upload field.Your full resume/CV may be uploaded without page limitation into the 'Other' document upload field.
The following documents are accepted, and may be required if applicable to your eligibility and/or qualifications for this position. Please ensure you have included all documents required for your application, such as a copy of your transcript (if using education to qualify), SF-50's (current/former Federal employees), etc.
DD-214/ Statement of Service
Disability Letter (VA)
License
Long-form resume/Curriculum vitae (CV)
Certification from the Academy for Certification of Vision Rehabilitation & Education Professionals (ACVREP), or another equivalent.
ACVREP in ONE of the following: Orientation and Mobility (COMS) OR Vision Rehab (CVRT) OR Certified Low Vision (CLVT) OR Vision Rehabilitation (CVRT)
PCS Orders
Professional Certification
SF-15
SF-50/ Notification of Personnel Action
Transcript
If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:
Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.
All applicants are encouraged to apply online. To apply for this position, you must complete the full questionnaire and submit the documentation specified in the Required Documents section below. The complete application package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (ET) on 10/02/2026 to receive consideration. To preview the questionnaire click https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/13068575.
To begin, click Apply Online to create a USAJOBS account or log in to your existing account. Follow the prompts to select your USA JOBS resume and/or other supporting documents and complete the occupational questionnaire.
Click Submit My Answers to submit your application package.
NOTE: It is your responsibility to ensure your responses and appropriate documentation is submitted prior to the closing date.
Long Beach VA Medical Center
5901 East Seventh Street
Long Beach, CA 90822
US
Next steps
Once your online application is submitted you will receive a confirmation notification by email. After we receive application packages (including all required documents) and the vacancy announcement closes, we will review applications to ensure qualification and eligibility requirements are met. After the review is complete, a referral certificate(s) is issued and applicants will be notified of their status by email. Referred applicants will be notified as such and may be contacted directly by the hiring office for an interview. All referred applicants receive a final notification once a selection decision has been made.You may check the status of your application at any time by logging into your USA Jobs account and clicking on Applications. Information regarding your application status can be found in the USAJobs Help Center.
NOTE: Participation in the seasonal influenza program is a condition of employment and a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP). It is a requirement that all HCP to receive annual seasonal influenza vaccination or obtain an exemption for medical or religious reasons. Wearing a face mask is required when an exemption to the influenza vaccination has been granted. HCP in violation of this directive may face disciplinary action up to and including removal from federal service. HCP are individuals who, during the influenza season, work in VHA locations or who come into contact with VA patients or other HCP as part of their duties. VHA locations include, but are not limited to, VA hospitals and associated clinics, community living centers (CLCs), community-based outpatient clinics (CBOCs), domiciliary units, Vet centers and VA-leased medical facilities. HCP include all VA licensed and unlicensed, clinical and administrative, remote and onsite, paid and without compensation, full- and part-time employees, intermittent employees, fee basis employees, VA contractors, researchers, volunteers and health professions trainees (HPTs) who are expected to perform any or all of their work at these facilities. HPTs may be paid or unpaid and include residents, interns, fellows and students. HCP also includes VHA personnel providing home-based care to Veterans and drivers and other personnel whose duties put them in contact with patients outside VA medical facilities.
Fair and transparent
The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.
