Vocational Counselor I - Frederick, MD (Hybrid)
About The Position
Omega is seeking a Vocational Counselor to support clients across the greater Frederick, Maryland area. The role serves as an advocate, coach, and employment matchmaker for individuals with disabilities, veterans, and job seekers overcoming barriers. The counselor works directly with clients in the community and builds partnerships with local businesses to help clients develop sustainable careers and achieve financial independence. The position combines local field visits with administrative documentation in a hybrid arrangement based at Omega’s Frederick office. The counselor assesses clients’ vocational interests, transferable skills, work tolerance, and support needs; develops Individualized Employment Plans with measurable goals; and provides job-readiness preparation and individualized coaching during initial job placements. The role also involves engaging employers, coordinating with agency and community partners, maintaining timely records, and advocating for accommodations and assistive technology. Candidates should have an associate or bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, although relevant professional experience may substitute. A valid driver’s license, reliable personal vehicle, active auto insurance, and ability to pass required background checks, registry clearances, and drug screenings are required. Experience and certifications in vocational rehabilitation, supported employment, job coaching, or workforce development are preferred.
Requirements
- Associate or bachelor’s degree in Human Services, Psychology, Social Work, Vocational Rehabilitation, or a related field; relevant professional experience may substitute for the degree.
- Valid driver’s license, reliable personal vehicle, and active auto insurance; frequent local travel is required.
- High emotional intelligence, active listening skills, and strong time management skills to manage a dynamic field caseload.
- Ability to pass standard state-mandated background checks, adult and child abuse registry clearances, and drug screenings.
Nice To Haves
- At least 3 years of experience in vocational rehabilitation, supported employment, job coaching, or workforce development.
- Direct experience working with veterans, neurodivergent individuals, or people with physical, cognitive, or psychiatric disabilities.
- Knowledge of state vocational rehabilitation agency processes or Medicaid waiver employment services.
- Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC), Certified Workforce Development Professional (CWDP), or ACRE/CESP certification.
Responsibilities
- Conduct intake assessments of clients’ vocational interests, transferable skills, work tolerance, and support needs.
- Co-create Individualized Employment Plans (IEPs) with measurable, milestone-driven goals.
- Prepare clients through resume building, interview practice, job applications, and workplace etiquette coaching.
- Provide individualized on-the-job coaching during initial placement to support onboarding and task mastery.
- Network with local employers across Frederick County to identify inclusive hiring opportunities.
- Educate employer partners about workplace accommodations, natural supports, and disability etiquette.
- Match clients’ strengths with employers’ labor needs.
- Coordinate with state agency partners, case managers, families, and community service boards.
- Maintain accurate and timely documentation of billable hours, client milestones, and progress notes in accordance with state and funder standards.
- Assess and advocate for assistive technology and reasonable accommodations under the ADA.
Benefits
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance options.
- 401(k) retirement plan with company match.
- Federal-standard mileage reimbursement for client-related travel.
- Generous paid time off package and paid company holidays.
- Dedicated supervision, CEU reimbursement, and training pathways for industry certifications.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
Associate degree
