Vocational Counselor I- Alexandria, VA (22312)
About The Position
Omega is seeking an energetic, empathetic Vocational Counselor to support individuals with disabilities, veterans, and job seekers facing barriers to employment in the greater Chantilly area. The counselor serves as an advocate, coach, and employment matchmaker, working directly with clients in the community and building partnerships with local businesses to support sustainable careers and financial independence. The role includes assessing clients’ vocational interests, skills, work tolerance, and support needs; developing individualized employment plans; preparing clients for job searches; coaching them during initial job placement; and connecting them with employers. The counselor also coordinates with state agencies and other support partners, maintains documentation in accordance with state and funder standards, and advocates for assistive technology and reasonable accommodations. The position offers a hybrid schedule that combines local field visits with flexibility for administrative documentation. Frequent local travel is required.
Requirements
- Associate or bachelor’s degree in Human Services, Psychology, Social Work, Vocational Rehabilitation, or a related field; relevant professional experience may substitute for a 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
- Three or more 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 Virginia Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services (DARS) processes or Medicaid waiver employment services.
- Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC), Certified Workforce Development Professional (CWDP), or ACRE/CESP certification.
Responsibilities
- Conduct intake assessments of vocational interests, transferable skills, work tolerance, and support needs.
- Co-create Individualized Employment Plans 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 the Alexandria and Fairfax County area 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 timely and accurate 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 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
