(with special interest in Assistive Technology and Augmentative and Alternative Communication)
Kildare / Offaly / Westmeath – Office is based in (Negotiable)
Permanent full time (one post)
Who are we?
The Muiriosa Foundation is a Section 38 voluntary health organisation providing services to people with intellectual disabilities, and Autistic people with co-occurring intellectual disabilities. We are publicly funded by the Department of Health, through the HSE. We operate services across RHA B. The Muiriosa Foundation employs approximately 1500 staff and provides residential and day opportunities to over 500 individuals. We provide an advisory service to a further 300 people with intellectual disabilities and their families. The Muiriosa Foundation has been working intentionally to support people with intellectual disabilities to participate as equal citizens in society in line with UNCRPD. We believe that supporting a person’s communication skills plays a key role in enhancing independence, autonomy and building inclusive environments.
Description
We are currently seeking a highly motivated Senior Speech and Language Therapist to lead the development of our Assistive Technology team. The post holder will be responsible for the provision of speech and language therapy supports to include assessment, intervention and clinical oversight of service delivery to individuals with communication differences and dysphagia. The Muiriosa Foundation values all forms of communication equally and supports a Total Communication approach as a fundamental human right. The successful applicant will work within the neurodiversity paradigm in the provision of neurodivergent affirming communication supports to implement Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), supporting minimally speaking and non-speaking individuals.
Person Specification
The successful candidate must have / be able to demonstrate the following:
Essential
1. Degree in Clinical Speech & Language Therapy.
2. Is registered or is eligible for registration on the Speech and Language Therapists Register maintained by the Speech and Language Therapists Registration Board at CORU.
3. Has three years full time (or an aggregate of three years full time) post qualification clinical experience.
4. Technology Literacy: Broad knowledge / proficiency in a wide range of assistive technologies, including A.A.C. devices, communication apps, speech-generating devices, eye-tracking systems, switches, and other related hardware and software.
5. A.A.C. evaluation and selection: Expertise in assessing the appropriateness of A.A.C. systems for individuals with different communication needs, considering factors such as motor abilities, cognitive skills, linguistic abilities, and personal preferences.
6. Customise A.A.C. systems by programming vocabulary, designing user interfaces, and configuring access methods (e.g., touch, switch, eye gaze).
7. Customisation and implementation: Skill in customising and implementing A.A.C. systems to match the unique needs and preferences of each individual, including programming vocabulary, adjusting access methods, and integrating the system into daily routines / activities.
8. Collaboration and teamwork: Ability to collaborate effectively with other professionals, including occupational therapists, educators, and technology specialists, to provide comprehensive / holistic support for individuals using assistive technology across various settings (e.g., home, school, community).
Desirable
1. Experience of working with clients with Physical, Sensory and Intellectual Disability.
2. A person Centred, human rights based approach to service delivery.
3. Experience of interdisciplinary working.
4. Experience working with Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC).
5. Experience working with Assistive Technology.
6. Specific training and demonstrated experience in dysphagia management.
If you are ready to lead, grow, and inspire, we’d love to hear from you. Apply now to become a vital part of Muiriosa Foundation’s dedicated team and help shape brighter futures.
Informal Enquiries: Chief Operations Officer Eoin Mooney 086 381 1089
Closing Date for receipt of completed applications: 16 January 2025 (5pm)
To apply and for further details please go to our web page at Current Vacancies Muiriosa Foundation.
N.B. When applying for positions on Rezoomo it is recommended to use a PC, Laptop or Tablet as some mobile phones are not compatible with this software.
#J-18808-Ljbffr