Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor (VRC)

State of Oregon•Tillamook | DHS, OR

3d•$4,954 - $7,592•Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor (VRC) to join our Vocational Rehabilitation Team in Tillamook, Oregon. As a VRC, you will help people with disabilities gain, maintain or advance employment through our rehabilitation process. In this position, you will complete the initial interview and eligibility determination. You will work with the client to develop an employment goal, plan for services and resources necessary to address barriers to employment, and ensure services are provided and/or coordinated with various stakeholders. The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) is a place to belong and make a difference, with over 10,000 employees dedicated to serving and helping Oregonians achieve wellbeing and independence. ODHS is committed to building an antiracist and equitable agency, integrating equity into all we do. The agency offers a work-life balance, 11 paid holidays a year, flexible work schedules, and competitive benefits packages including health, dental, vision and much more.

Requirements

A Bachelor's degree in a related field, such as one that promotes the physical, psychosocial, or vocational well-being of individuals with disabilities, AND two years of full-time work experience in vocational rehabilitation-related services.
OR A Master's degree in Rehabilitation Counseling OR be certified by either the Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification as a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC), the Certified Insurance Rehabilitation Specialist (CIRS), OR the Certification of Disability Management Specialists Commission as a Certified Disability Management Specialist (CDMS), AND six months full-time work experience providing vocational rehabilitation-related services.
OR A Master's degree in psychology, counseling, or a field related to vocational rehabilitation (such as one that promotes the physical, psychosocial, or vocational well-being of individuals with disabilities) AND one-year full-time work experience providing vocational rehabilitation-related services.
There is no direct experience substitute for a Bachelor's degree.
Experience working in an environment with a high degree of public contact dealing with persons who may be irate, confused, frustrated or angry using active listening and conflict resolution methods.
Experience communicating confidential consumer disabling conditions in a sensitive and respectful nature.
Skills in computer-based case management system (ORCA), desktop computer, TDD, copy and fax machine. Requires proficient typing, word processing and organizational skills.
Experience with procurement and purchasing rules and guidelines.
Knowledge and experience working with a diverse population of individuals with disabilities.
Ability to resolve conflict on a lower-level, demonstrates ability to problem solve and use communication skills when conflict arises.
Must have a valid driver license and a good driving record. If not, must provide an acceptable alternative.

Responsibilities

Perform all the functions necessary to manage a full caseload and to contribute to VR performance measures.
Assure that state, federal, and agency standards for compliance, timelines, and quality are met for all cases.
Use an automated case management system (ORCA) to enter, update and retrieve client information promptly and accurately.
Utilize technology and software to complete VR tasks and provide clients services in an efficient and effective manner.
Screen, interview, and evaluate medical and psychological information to determine potential eligibility for services.
Determine needs and coordinate medical and psychological assessments with physicians, psychiatrists, and medical/psychological consultants.
Schedule aptitude and personality interest tests and interpret results of tests.
Gather and evaluate pertinent materials to provide necessary vocational counseling and guidance to determine the nature and scope of services needed to achieve the stated vocational goal and the employment outcome.
Make a determination regarding physical restorative requirements (hearing aids, physical therapy, etc.) necessary for employment; determine training necessary for employability; coordinate closely with other agencies and provide career and vocational counseling to clients.
Provide direct job placement to consumers including employer incentive services, tax credit vouchers, state certifications, assistive technology, and work site modifications to assist consumers in reaching their employment outcomes.
Make and justify decisions for the expenditure of funds to meet specific individual client needs.
Contact local employers to become familiar with the local job market.
Educate local employers about the agency programs, goals, and employment incentives.
Work closely with employers to expand employment opportunities for people with disabilities and maintain current and comprehensive knowledge of community resources available for clients.
Contribute to the integration of VR services with community partners by providing collaborative case management, consultation, and liaison activities with brokerages, mental health providers, and supported employment programs.