Social Worker (Center Counselor)

the South Dakota State Government•Sioux Falls, SD

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The South Dakota Rehabilitation Center for the Blind is looking for a compassionate, collaborative, and motivated Social Worker (Center Counselor) to join our team. In this role, you'll help people with vision loss build confidence, gain independence, and develop the skills they need for everyday life, employment, and personal success. Every day brings the opportunity to make a meaningful difference by supporting individuals as they work toward their goals. As the Social Worker (Center Counselor), you'll also play an important role in coordinating services and supporting the team. You'll work closely with Center instructors and referring field staff to ensure clients receive consistent, high-quality services throughout their training at the Center. Every day offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact by providing counseling, support, and encouragement to individuals navigating vision loss-helping them gain confidence, develop essential life and work skills, and pursue a brighter future.

Requirements

A bachelor's degree in a field of study such as social work, vocational rehabilitation counseling, psychology, disability studies, human services, special education, or similar education - preferred.
A strong commitment to ethical practices and maintaining client confidentiality.
The ability to work effectively as part of a collaborative, interdisciplinary team.
Experience working with individuals who are blind or visually impaired.
A commitment to promoting independence, self-determination, and high expectations for individuals who are blind or visually impaired.
Knowledge of independent living skills and vocational readiness instruction.
Knowledge of cultural awareness and best practices for working effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds, including people with disabilities.
Knowledge of workplace accommodations and accessibility practices that support individuals with disabilities in employment settings.
Knowledge of community resources, programs, and services available to support individuals with disabilities.
Skill to prepare and present clear, accurate reports that include findings, recommendations, and supporting information.
Skill to communicate effectively by listening carefully and sharing information clearly and professionally.
Skill to build and maintain productive working relationships with clients, service providers, community organizations, and coworkers.
Skill to prepare clear, accurate, and timely case notes, reports, and other written correspondence.
Skill to stay organized and manage workload effectively to meet deadlines and job responsibilities.
Skill to use Microsoft Office applications and electronic case management and filing systems efficiently.
Ability to provide leadership and guidance in a collaborative team environment.
Ability to plan, organize, and prioritize work while managing multiple responsibilities and changing priorities.
Ability to build professional, respectful, and empathetic relationships with clients.
Ability to provide consultation, guidance, and training to SBVI staff across the state.
Ability to communicate clearly and professionally through accurate, concise written correspondence.
Ability to use sound judgment and problem-solving skills to make day-to-day program decisions.
Ability to set short- and long-term goals and effectively manage available resources.
Ability to work collaboratively with coworkers and contribute positively to a team-oriented workplace.
Ability to monitor and evaluate client progress, adjusting services as needed to support successful outcomes.
Resume and college transcript must be attached.
Must apply online.

Responsibilities

Coordinate referrals for Skills of Blindness training at the Center.
Develop and manage the weekly Skills of Blindness training schedule.
Provide Skills of Blindness instruction when coverage is needed.
Oversee the three Center apartments.
Prepare and finalize client reports for referring counselors and teachers.
Meet individually with clients each week to provide counseling, guidance, and support.

Benefits

15 days/120 Hours of Vacation Leave
14 days/112 Hours of Sick Leave
11 Paid Holidays
Employee health insurance includes plan with a 0 premium for employee-only coverage
Flexible Benefits - Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Critical Illness and more
Paid Parental & Family Medical Leave
6% Fully Matched Retirement Plan
Reduced Tuition for In-State Colleges/Universities
Employee Wellness Program
Continued Education/Training Opportunities