Region 1 - Vocational Support Advisor

Location: York & Cumberland County (Biddeford, Sanford, Portland, Gorham)

About the role

As a Vocational Support Advisor, you'll play a vital role in helping clients overcome employment barriers and achieve their short-term and long-term employment and training-related goals. You will connect clients with opportunities that lead to sustainable jobs, ultimately contributing to their success.

Coordinates services for clients with disabilities resulting in a substantial impediment to employment, in partnership with the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) and the Division for the Blind and Visually Impaired (DBVI) along with other internal and external programs, service providers, and community organizations. Connects customers with potential employers and communicates extensively with the Disability Services team.

Initiates and maintains ongoing contact with our contract holder, a variety of relevant businesses, and team members to ensure quality services for our clients. Recruits companies to participate in VR services, including Work-Based Learning opportunities, informational interviews, job shadows, job site tours, and employment.

Educate clients and businesses on reasonable accommodations, disability etiquette, employee/employer rights, and disability disclosure. Assess client skills, need for support, and disability-related barriers to employment.

Manages complex relationships between clients, DVR/DBVI, employers, families/guardians, school systems, case managers, and all other relevant stakeholders while maintaining client confidentiality. Manages time effectively and prioritize tasks to meet established deadlines.

Candidates should be capable of working under pressure and maintaining productivity in a fast-paced environment, ensuring that all projects are completed on schedule. Responsible for submitting timely and accurate case data that supports contract measures and outcomes. Responds to client, funder, and employer needs. Demonstrates and adheres to client confidentiality policies.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or Equivalency, in combination with either:
  • Experience working with people with disabilities
  • Experience developing business relationships
• Solid understanding of job search and job development techniques
• Proficiency in computer-based applications and software, including but not limited to Microsoft Office Suite, iPhone applications, and basic data entry to maintain client files. Ability to troubleshoot common technical issues and adapt to new technologies as needed
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• ACRE certification or ability to obtain certification within 6 months of date of hire
• Must be able to travel as required
• Valid driver’s license permitting operation of a vehicle with a safe driving record
• Criminal background check that meets Agency standards

Preferred Qualifications

• BA/BS in rehabilitation services, business, human services, human relations, or related fields with experience supporting people with disabilities

Benefits

• Medical, Vision, and Dental benefits
• Telehealth services for physical and mental well-being
• 30% Employee discount at Goodwill stores in ME, NH & VT
• Generous PTO Plan
• Valuable job training with growth potential
• Free counseling and support services ("life navigation") for employees going through tough times

Pay

$22.37 - $25 per hour, depending on experience