Veteran Employment Counselor

Vocational Rehabilitation Specialists, Inc. (VRSI)•Madison, WI

4d•$22 - $27

About The Position

Vocational Rehabilitation Specialists, Inc. (VRSI) is hiring an Employment Specialist for its Homeless Veterans' Reintegration Program (HVRP), a U.S. Department of Labor grant. The role helps veterans experiencing or at risk of homelessness find and retain employment, guiding them from first contact and eligibility screening through job readiness, training, placement, and follow-up. The goal is to help veterans secure stable, livable-wage employment in in-demand occupations while connecting them with supportive services. The position combines office-based work with frequent local field travel for outreach and service coordination. Outreach may involve visits to partner sites, shelters, encampments, employers, and community events, including occasional evenings or weekends. Field work may take place outdoors and in unsheltered settings. Reliable transportation and use of a personal vehicle are required; mileage is reimbursed at the current federal rate. The work is described as meaningful, fast-paced, and emotionally demanding. Compensation is $22–$27 per hour, based on experience. Benefits include paid company holidays, sick time, paid time off, healthcare, and a 401(k).

Requirements

Associate’s degree in social work, human services, counseling, or a related field; relevant experience may be considered instead of a degree.
At least 2 years of experience in workforce development, employment services, or a related field.
Reliable transportation and use of a personal vehicle to perform essential job functions; mileage is reimbursed at the current federal rate.
Valid driver’s license.
Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills, including the ability to communicate with groups and employers.
Strong organization and attention to detail, with the ability to manage a caseload and deadlines.
Ability to work independently, make sound decisions, work as part of a team, and build strong relationships with clients, employers, and community partners.
Proficiency with job search platforms, career assessment tools, case management databases, and Microsoft Office Suite.
Empathetic, veteran-centered approach and willingness to learn and apply best practices.

Nice To Haves

Experience working with veterans or homeless populations (highly preferred).
Strong understanding of challenges faced by homeless veterans, including the needs of women veterans and justice-involved veterans.
Experience in job development, employer relations, or case management.
Bachelor’s degree in social work, human services, business, or a related field.

Responsibilities

Assess veterans’ skills, work history, interests, and employment barriers; determine program eligibility and enroll eligible veterans.
Develop and update individualized employment plans with career goals, next steps, and timelines.
Meet federal grant goals for veterans assessed, enrolled, placed, and retained in employment.
Teach resume writing, job search strategies, interview preparation, and professional conduct; plan and lead job-readiness workshops and group training.
Provide individual career counseling, share information about local jobs and training, and follow up regularly on veterans’ progress.
Refer veterans to suitable job training programs and track their progress.
Build relationships with local employers and identify suitable job opportunities for veterans.
Assist veterans with job applications, interview preparation, and negotiating pay and job terms; provide post-placement support to address risks to job retention.
Engage employers about their hiring needs and the benefits of hiring veterans, including available tax credits; attend job fairs, employer panels, and networking events.
Maintain accurate, current, and confidential client records, case notes, and job outcome information; prepare and submit program and grant reports.
Coordinate with community partners, veteran service organizations, housing providers, employers, and others to arrange services and build referral networks.
Connect veterans with support services, including housing, transportation, mental health and substance use treatment, and legal aid.
Represent VRSI at community meetings, veteran groups, job fairs, homeless-veteran outreach events, and similar activities; identify service gaps and advocate for better support.
Conduct regular in-person community outreach, including visits to partner sites, shelters, encampments, and other places veterans may be found.