Braille Transcriber

Description

JOB SUMMARY: Produce instructional, literary, and other Braille materials by performing Brailling or typing, and transcribing English, mathematics, music, and computer notation into Braille.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

JOB KNOWLEDGE
High school diploma or GED required; Associate degree preferred.
Typing, proofreading, and writing proficiency required.
Literary Braille Transcribing Certification from Library of Congress required.
Nemeth Certification required.
Literary Braille Proofreading Certification from Library of Congress preferred
Letter of Proficiency in Unified English Braille
Minimum of four years work experience or volunteer with formal training in literary, Nemeth or computerized
Braille transcription with possession of a Library of Congress Certificate of Proficiency in Literary Braille
Proficiency in the rules and regulations in Braille production.
Be fluent in the UEB braille code, as well as Nemeth and possibly music and foreign language.
Knowledge of Braille formats and codes, including literary, textbook, and non-standard formats; all grades of
literary Braille codes, and specialized codes.
Knowledge related to Braille production including knowledge of: Braille embossers, thermoform machines, Braille bindery equipment, Braille production supplies and procedures.
Knowledge of software used in Braille transcription including: MicroBraille, Polkadot, Duxbury (DBT) ED-IT PC, Braille 2000 or current equivalent.
Ability to braille and type with reasonable speed on a Perkins Braillewriter or at a computer terminal.
Training and experience in the use of microcomputers, particularly using word processing and databases.
Ability to maintain electronic files.
Proficiency with computers (PCs and/or MACs) to include desktop management, file management and operations, and successfully working in a networked environment.
Proficiency with File, Edit, Insert, View, Format, Tools, Tables, Windows, Data, and Help functions with electronic applications such as MS Office (word processing, electronic spreadsheets, presentation software), e-mail, Internet, and databases.
Exceptions to these requirements will be considered based on exemplary skills, training, and record of success.

PRODUCTS/OUTCOMES
Transcribe textbooks, literary books, reference books, letters, graphs, numerical data, and other written information into proper Braille code.
Prepare Braille materials using computer, Perkins Braillewriter, or slate and stylus.
Adhere to the techniques, standards and procedures set forth by the Braille Authority of North America (BANA).
Proofread and complete quality control checks of materials for accuracy.
Maintain records of Braille transcription services performed.
Run various types of software for Braille translation or transcription (e.g., WordPerfect, Duxbury, and Polkadot).
Make corrections/repairs to tactile graphics as required.
Collate and bind Braille books and materials.
Produce tactile pictures, graphs, maps, charts, and other visuals using a computer, related peripherals, and specialized software.
Inspect embossed volumes and thermoformed pages for any problems with the dots.
Assure print title pages, print transcriber note pages and Braille title pages match before binding.
Inspect all finished work for compliance and/or defects.
Operate and troubleshoot office equipment used to produce Braille materials.
Assists with determining transcription methods, or formatting for Braille users.
Performs related duties as assigned.

INITIATIVE
Stay up to date on changes in textbook reporting, billing and shipping procedures.
Remain current in computer technology as it relates to braille production, and interfaces with the student's Braille-related assistive technology
Demonstrate the ability to be self-directed with minimum supervision.
Demonstrate appropriate decision-making skills regarding ongoing development of production projects.
Research various ways to broaden text production.

COMMUNICATION/HUMAN RELATIONS
Interact with vendors, Texas Education Agency (TEA), contractors, various Brailing centers, and staff members.
Use tact, diplomacy, and discretion when dealing with vendors, Texas Education Agency (TEA), contractors, and various Brailing centers and staff members.
Maintain a working relationship with stakeholders including: The commission for the Blind, American foundation for the Blind, National Foundation for the Blind, Department of Criminal Justice, Northwest Vista College, National Library Services of the Library of Congress, the National Braille Association and the Texas Education Agency.
Transcribed or reproduced materials are confidential and are not shared, reproduced, or used other than to complete assigned job duties.
Demonstrate positive teamwork.
Communicate effectively with Braille staff and other ESC-20 staff.
Maintain communication with supervisor regarding resource needs.

BUDGET RESPONSIBILITY
None

PHYSICAL/MENTAL DEMANDS & ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS
Tools/Equipment Used: Standard office equipment including personal computer and peripherals; frequently working around machinery with moving parts.
Posture: Prolonged sitting/standing; occasional bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, and twisting.
Motion: Repetitive hand motions including frequent keyboarding and use of mouse; occasional reaching.
Lifting: Occasional light to heavy lifting and carrying (15-45 pounds) boxes; minimal climbing of ladders and overhead reaching to place or remove Braille materials from overhead shelving.
Environment: Minimal driving as needed to deliver braille materials and attend meetings; traveling at least every 3 years to attend Braille professional development conferences; exposure to low or intense illumination; exposure to noise and dust particles produced by Braille embossers, and forms bursting equipment.
Mental Demands: Work with frequent interruptions; maintain emotional control under stress.
Physical: Visual acuity in distinguishing colors, and inspection Braille tactile graphics.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Participation in nationally recognized Braille production training sessions at least every 36 months is required.
Function within the policies and administrative procedures of ESC-20.
Accept other responsibilities as assigned.
Dress and groom appropriately for the ESC-20 work setting.
Travel independently to fulfill the responsibilities of the position.
Serve at the will of the Executive Director.