COMPETITION #: 2024-47
INITIAL POSTING DATE: November 28, 2024
LOCATION: Flexible within Halifax Regional Municipality
POSITIONS: Full Time, Permanent, 2 positions available
SALARY: $37,373.96 - $48,471.28, set in accordance with NSGEU/APSEA collective Agreement
APPLICATION BY: December 9, 2024 at Noon
START DATE: As soon as possible
Who We Are
APSEA is an interprovincial cooperative agency established in 1975 by joint agreement among the Ministers of Education of New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island.
APSEA provides educational services, programs, and opportunities for children and youth who are Deaf, hard of hearing, blind, or visually impaired who reside in Atlantic Canada. Our employees support learners to reach their highest potential for an independent, self-sufficient, and fulfilling life.
What We Offer
APSEA offers meaningful opportunities to help make a difference in the lives of children, youth, and their families. We are committed to fostering a culture that is inspiring, supportive, and inclusive.
In joining APSEA's team, you would receive:
· Access to a Pension Plan
· Access to Comprehensive Health and Dental benefits plan
· Professional learning opportunities
Position Details
Under the direction of the Supervisor of Production and Library Services, the Junior Alternate Format Technician is responsible for basic production of alternate format materials for learners who are Blind or visually impaired (BVI).
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion are among APSEA’s guiding principles. Moreover, diversity within APSEA is a strength that must be cultivated. It is the responsibility of every APSEA employee to foster a culture that embraces and promotes diversity.
The Alternate Format Technician also:
- Transcribes educational materials into the appropriate alternate format for learners who are BVI.
- Produces contracted Unified English Braille (UEB), uncontracted French Braille using a specialized braille computer translation software – or by occasional use of a Perkins Brailler.
- Produces digital formats (examples: Electronic Text (E-Text), Accessible PDF, etc.) based on learner requirements.
- Operates computer software programs to produce tactile graphics.
- Ensures accuracy in self-produced braille and digital format materials, before material is sent to a proofreader.
- Embosses, collates, binds, labels, and repairs braille, enlarged print, and print volumes.
- Maintains records of production statistics for tracking purposes.
- Participates in professional development opportunities to ensure alternate format production reflects current standards and best practices.
Requirements and Qualifications You Bring:
- Completion of a post-secondary business/office administration program is preferred, or a comparable combination of qualification(s) and experience.
- Unified English Braille (UEB) Transcription Course (CNIB) or willingness to complete training within two (2) years (may include use of personal time to complete certification within deadline).
- Demonstrated work experience with graphics editor software.
- One (1) year of experience producing braille and tactiles transcribing is an asset.
- One (1) year of experience in transcribing and/or proofreading basic math and science material is an asset.
- Excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills.
- Ability to work independently to complete the current workload and meet deadlines; all material is proofed by Senior or Intermediate Alternate Format Technician(s).
- Willingness to complete professional learning opportunities as required.
- Willingness to learn and apply concepts from reference resources such as; Braille Formats: Principles of Print-to-Braille Transcription, Guidelines and Standards for Tactile Graphics, The Rules of Unified English Braille, UEB Guidelines for Technical Materials.
- Excellent communication skills with a sound knowledge of business English, punctuation and spelling.
- Demonstrate the ability to work independently and collaboratively in accordance with established policies, procedures, and standards.
- Strong organizational and time management skills - a forward focused individual who proactively seeks new knowledge and skills.
- Demonstrated typing and word /data processing skills and proficiency in Microsoft Office software.
- Intermediate knowledge of and practical experience with computers, internet, and online searching.
- Maintain confidentiality and professionalism with regards to access and distribution of learner and employee information.
- Comfortable working in a virtual learning environment.
- Ability to handle routine and repetitive work efficiently while working under pressure.
- Fluency in American Sign Language (ASL) is an asset.
- Bilingual in French/English considered an asset.
Offer of employment is conditional upon the successful completion of all applicable background checks and confirmation of credentials.
APSEA is committed to the full inclusion of all applicants. As part of this commitment, APSEA will ensure that applicants are provided reasonable accommodations, as required. If accommodation is needed to participate in the job application process, please contact Julia Pascucci, HR Generalist, julia_pascucci@apsea.ca
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $37,373.96-$48,471.28 per year