7/16/88 B

This is the first and journey level class in a series of classes which represents positions that are responsible for the design, manufacture or modification of adaptive equipment for maximizing functioning of persons with disabilities. Positions in this class are responsible for the design, fabrication and modification of adaptive equipment from notes and discussions with medical staff, patients, and other appropriate staff. Responsibilities typically include conducting extensive patient evaluation, developing conceptual solutions, and translating solutions into designs. Specifications and technical drawings are prepared for designed adaptive equipment. This class is distinguished from the Rehabilitative Lead Engineer class in that positions in this class do not supervise other Rehabilitative Engineers or manage a comprehensive rehabilitative engineering program.

Complexity of Work: Performs work of considerable difficulty in designing adaptive equipment such as wheelchair modifications, mobility systems, communication augmentation systems and environmental adaptation for severely physically handicapped people. May direct laboratory mechanics or workers in the fabrication and modification of adaptive equipment. Coordinates information gathering from a variety of sources, including patients, medical staff and rehabilitation personnel. Conducts extensive patient evaluation, develops equipment designs to meet patient needs, prepares specification for designed equipment, and disseminates design information. Duties are performed with a high degree of initiative and judgement in designing and manufacturing adaptive equipment.

Supervision Given: Supervision is typically not a factor. May supervise or direct personnel such as laboratory mechanics who will perform work related to the design of adaptive equipment.

Supervision Received: Performs work under the direction of a Rehabilitative Lead Engineer or a manager responsible for a rehabilitation program.

Scope: Positions in this class are responsible for management of the design of equipment and adaptive aids to maximize employability, physical independence and quality of life of persons with disabilities.

Impact of Actions: Actions related to the design and implementation of adaptive devices have a moderate impact on the cost and quality of services delivered, which are essential to the employability, physical independence, safety, communication ability, and quality of life for disabled persons.

Personal Contacts: Frequent contact is conducted with patients, medical staff and rehabilitation personnel to assess disability, design and fabricate devices and discuss services available.

Knowledge: Considerable knowledge of engineering techniques as applied to the design of adaptive aids and rehabilitative equipment.

Skills: Working skill in fabrication of adaptive aids and equipment.

Abilities: Demonstrated ability to conceptualize the design and fabrication of adaptive equipment; prepare specifications and technical drawings; and communicate effectively orally and in writing.

QUALIFICATIONS GUIDE*

Licenses or Certification: None.

Education or Training: Graduation from a college or university with major course work in an engineering discipline, preferably rehabilitation engineering.

Level and Type of Experience: Experience in utilizing engineering techniques relative to the position's duties.

An equivalent combination of training and experience indicating possession of the preceding knowledge and abilities may substitute for this education and experience.

This class was redefined and revised in July 1987, as a result of the State Classification Review/Specification Update Project.