Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania • Berks County, PA

7d • $60,538 • Hybrid

About The Position

The Bureau of Vocational Rehabilitation Services is seeking a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor to support students and adults with disabilities in Berks and Schuylkill counties as they explore careers, build skills, and pursue employment goals. The position provides vocational guidance and individualized support to help customers prepare for, obtain, or maintain employment.

The counselor assesses applicants, evaluates eligibility, develops employment plans, coordinates services, monitors progress, and builds relationships with community partners. The position is full-time, 37.5 hours per week, Monday through Friday, typically 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM with a 30-minute lunch. The schedule may be negotiable within a 7.5-hour workday, and the position is eligible for an alternate work schedule. Part-time telework may be available after successful completion of the training period, subject to requirements and change. Employees unable to telework may report to the headquarters office in Reading or an approved office in the caseload territory. The starting annual salary for candidates new to Commonwealth employment is $60,538.00.

Requirements

• Successful completion of the Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor Intern program or Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor Trainee program (Commonwealth or equivalent Federal Government job title, as determined by the Office of Administration); or an active Certified Rehabilitation Counselor certificate issued by the Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification; or proof of approval to sit for the CRCC Certified Rehabilitation Counselor certification examination and completion of a master’s degree; or a master’s degree in vocational rehabilitation, mental health, special education, social work, human services, psychology, or a closely related field.
• Applicants completing a qualifying degree may be considered to have met the educational requirement when they are within three months of graduation.
• Must be able to perform essential job functions.
• A conditional offer requires submission and approval of satisfactory criminal history reports, including Pennsylvania State Police, Pennsylvania Child Abuse history, and FBI Fingerprint clearances.

Responsibilities

• Conduct face-to-face interviews to gather information about applicants’ disabilities, education, employment history, and other relevant factors.
• Review medical and psychosocial information to determine applicants’ potential eligibility for vocational rehabilitation.
• Collaborate with customers to establish vocational goals and develop an Individualized Plan for Employment.
• Arrange evaluations and coordinate planned services.
• Provide counseling and guidance throughout the vocational rehabilitation process.
• Maintain case records, document updates, and follow up regularly to support customer success.
• Build relationships with customers, service providers, employers, and community groups to strengthen referral sources and placement opportunities.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level