Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor

AZ Dept. of Economic Security • Douglas, AZ

14h • $48,510 - $55,441 • Hybrid

About The Position

The Department of Economic Security (DES), Division of Employment and Rehabilitation Services (DERS) is seeking an experienced and highly motivated individual to join their team as a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor with the Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA). This position will report to the Supervisor and provide vocational rehabilitation counseling and guidance to individuals with disabilities to address barriers to employment and gain the skills to enter, gain, or retain employment. This position will serve in a hybrid work environment. Based on qualifications, candidates will be placed in one of three tiers: Entry Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor, Intermediate Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor, or Senior Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor. The annual salary ranges from $48,510.17 to $55,440.52, commensurate with education and qualifications. This position may be available for remote work within Arizona, requiring a minimum of 2 days per week in the office/hoteling. The State of Arizona offers a work culture that provides employees with flexibility, autonomy, and trust, with many state employees participating in the State’s Remote Work Program.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in a field of study reasonably related to rehabilitation counseling or another field that reasonably prepares individuals to work with individuals with disabilities and employers and two years of experience working with individuals with disabilities
• Master's degree in a field of study closely related to rehabilitation counseling and one year of experience working with individuals with disabilities (Closely related fields are defined by Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification.)
• Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) certification
• Knowledge in Federal and State laws, statutes, rules, regulations pertaining to vocational rehabilitation services.
• At least one year of case management experience.
• Knowledge of physical, mental, and cognitive disabilities.
• Knowledge of referral and community resources.
• Skill in working with individuals with disabilities.
• Skill in using computer access technology and assistive aids & devices.
• Knowledge of occupational opportunities and labor market trends.
• Effective oral and written communication skills.
• Time management skills.
• Ability to resourcefully problem-solve.
• Ability to motivate clients in achieving goals.
• Ability to utilize excellent interpersonal skills.
• Candidates must be able to obtain a valid Level One Arizona fingerprint clearance card.
• Must successfully pass background and reference checks.
• Must successfully complete the Electronic Employment Eligibility Verification Program (E-Verify).
• Must possess and retain a current, valid class-appropriate driver's license if driving is an essential function.
• Must maintain acceptable driving records and complete all required driver training if driving is an essential function.

Responsibilities

• Introduces clients to the vocational rehabilitation program including program eligibility criteria and client’s right and responsibilities
• Reviews client’s medical and/or psychological information to identify employment needs and goals as well as available services and resources
• Provides vocational counseling, career exploration, and labor market exploration to determine suitable employment goals
• Meets with clients on a one-on-one basis to problem solve and establish or modify an Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE)
• Provides case management and maintains regular contact with clients, service providers, and collaborative programs, and assess services and IPE progress
• Manages fiscal resources including authorizing, reviewing, and payment of services
• Provides case management to clients with complex needs and goals.
• Serves as program liaison for specialized groups.
• Provides guidance to Entry Vocational Rehabilitation Counselors.
• May serve as back up to the Rehabilitation Supervisor.
• Provides case management to clients with high complexity level.

Benefits

• Affordable medical, dental, life, and short-term disability insurance plans.
• Participation in the Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS) and long-term disability plans.
• 10 paid holidays per year.
• Paid vacation and sick time.
• Paid Parental Leave-Up to 12 weeks per year paid leave for newborn or newly-placed foster/adopted child.
• Deferred compensation plan.
• Wellness plans.
• Tuition Reimbursement.
• Stipend Opportunities.
• Infant at Work Program.
• Rideshare and Public Transit Subsidy.
• Career Advancement & Employee Development Opportunities.

What This Job Offers

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