Definition

Assist in providing an effective student health program by performing a variety of duties related to audiometry and other health services.   Complete state mandated hearing screening tests designed to identify students with possible hearing defects or middle ear pathology, provide appropriate referral and follow-up services for all pupils failing the hearing tests and/or evidencing signs of pathology requiring medical attention; maintain accurate records and complete reports as required by the State Department of Health Services and the California Ed Code.

Supervision Received and Exercised

Serves as a member of the Special Education Department under the direction Director of Special Education and the supervision of an assigned School Nurse.

Distinguishing Characteristics

This experienced medical professional assists in an effective student health program by performing advanced duties of a medical clerk, providing independently managed hearing services.

Examples of Essential Job Functions (Duties & Responsiblities)

Management reserves the right to add, modify, change or rescind the work assignments of different positions and to make reasonable accommodations so that qualified employees can perform the essential functions of the job.

• Performs hearing tests on students (preK-12) in assigned schools.
• Prepares and notifies schools of scheduled dates and times for screenings.
• Prepares packets and submits to schools according to established timelines.
• Drives to various sites to conduct work.
• Operates a variety of medical instruments utilized in hearing screenings.
• Assures proper operation of instruments and arranges for repairs or replacements as needed.
• Arranges for calibration of hearing equipment.
• Records results of hearing tests and prepares referrals for students with potential hearing problems to the nurse, according to established guidelines.
• Supports school nursing team with scheduling mandated screenings and assessments at various school sites.
• Responds to and coordinates district requests for health-related services.
• Duplicates records of results and provides to school districts.
• Conducts and administers special screenings as needed.
• Operates computer and other standard office equipment as assigned.
• Orders forms, supplies and other materials as needed.
• Prepares and submits yearly hearing report on behalf of assigned districts
• Performs related duties as assigned.

Knowledge of:

• Audiometric screening techniques and instruments used in hearing screenings
• State of California requirements for hearing testing
• Impedance screening techniques
• Record keeping systems, both paper and digital
• Fundamental principles and accepted trends in the field of school audiometry
• Operation of a computer, assigned software and other standard office equipment as assigned
• Proper interpersonal skills using tact, patience and courtesy
• Humboldt County Office of Education policies and procedures related to assigned activities

Ability to:

• Conduct hearing screenings within a school environment
• Drive county vehicle to various sights to conduct work
• Maintain detailed medical records
• Develop schedules involving multiple schools and multiple providers for hearing screenings
• Utilize hearing instruments to conduct hearing tests
• Work independently with little direction
• Meet schedules and timelines
• Maintain the security of confidential materials
• Analyze situations accurately and adopt an effective course of action
• Follow oral and written directions
• Demonstrate competence in communicating effectively with children and parents, staff members and representatives of other agencies

Education and Experience

Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be:

Education

• Equivalent to completion of the twelfth grade or high school equivalency diploma (GED)

Experience

• Experience conducing a hearing testing and conservation program in public schools
• Use signing exact English (SEE) sign language
• Speak and write the Spanish language
• Experience with organization and scheduling in a related field
• Experience working with children who live with disabilities

Licenses/Certifications

• California School Audiometrist Certificate (required 4 – 12 units)
• CPR Certification within six (6) months of employment
• Valid CPI certification

Physical Demands

• Physical, mental and emotional stamina to perform the duties and responsibilities of the position, which may include sitting or standing for extended periods of time
• Mental acuity to collect and interpret data, evaluate, reason, define problems, establish facts, draw valid conclusions, make valid judgments and decisions
• Visual acuity (which may be corrected) to read small print, both digital and on paper
• Sufficient hearing to conduct in person and telephone conversations
• Dexterity of hands and fingers to operate a computer keyboard
• Driving a vehicle to conduct work

Note: An employee in this position must have a valid California driver’s license and be able to operate a vehicle in order to drive to the necessary schools throughout the county or be able to otherwise move about to multiple work sites on any given day

Working Conditions

This position supports students within schools located in urban and rural areas within Humboldt county, requires driving of 1.5 hours or more in a day, lifting and moving medical equipment up to 45 pounds and working within the scope of a professional day, although variable depending on school district start times and travel times.  This position, while independent, works within a team of medical professionals.

Other Requirements

• Must be fingerprinted and satisfactory Department of Justice and Federal Bureau of Investigation records checks must be received by HCOE, prior to employment.
• TB testing will be required upon employment.
• Must pass a pre-employment physical (if applicable).
• May be required to obtain first aid and CPR certificates within the first 6-12 months of employment.
• May be required to drive with or without students.

PC Approved 8.26.22
Classified Hourly, Range 4