Vocational Counselor - Social Security and Medical Assistance

ATHENA Consulting is an award-winning staffing firm serving state and local governments. Our mission is to make lives better by making our clients’ lives easier—engaging and supporting them to be the most knowledgeable staffing partner—and by identifying and cultivating our employees’ talents to match them with our customers’ needs. We place a high value on customer service, accountability, and getting the job done.

About the role

This full-time, in-person position is located in Olyphant, PA. The Vocational Counselor (SSA Disability Specialist) reviews and develops Social Security Disability cases, evaluates medical records, applies SSA disability regulations and vocational rules, prepares Vocational Reports and letters, and supports both clients and internal stakeholders as assigned.

Responsibilities

• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, caseworkers, medical providers, and internal stakeholders to ensure timely and accurate case processing.
• Serve as an SSA Disability expert, advising and supporting colleagues and clients on disability programs and case development.
• Review Social Security Disability and Medical Assistance cases to determine the appropriate course of action.
• Evaluate medical records and apply SSA Listing Codes, Sequential Evaluation rules, and vocational guidelines.
• Prepare Vocational Reports, Counselor Denial Letters, and other case documentation within required timelines while maintaining HIPAA compliance.
• Provide annual training to DAP Advocates statewide on Listings of Impairments, SSA rules, and case development procedures.
• Consult with advocates, caseworkers, medical providers, and clients to answer questions and provide case guidance.
• Take ownership of complex or sensitive cases, ensuring timely resolution and proper follow-up.
• Perform supervisory reviews on cases, making or requesting corrections as needed.
• Collaborate with internal teams and external stakeholders to support organizational goals.
• Make recommendations for case development improvements and process efficiencies.
• Attend meetings, trainings, and seminars as assigned.
• Demonstrate professionalism, cooperation, flexibility, and a willingness to assist others.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Master’s Degree (required).
• Experience with SSA Disability programs, case evaluation, and related documentation (required).
• Familiarity with SSA Listing Codes / Listings of Impairments (required).
• Knowledge of Social Security Disability evaluation rules and vocational guidelines.
• Experience in vocational counseling, peer support, or behavioral health (preferred).

Skills

• Strong ability to multi-task in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong analytical and documentation skills.
• Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Word and Excel.
• Ability to provide training and guidance to internal and external stakeholders.

Physical Requirements

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Standard hours of work: Monday through Friday, 8:00 am – 6:00 pm, with a lunch break.
• Must maintain excellent attendance and punctuality.

Benefits

• 15 days (120 hours) of PTO; carryover limit of 80 hours (for full-time positions).
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Robust bonus structure paid twice per year.
• Medical and dependent flexible spending account.
• Pet insurance.
• 401k with a generous employer match.
• Easy-to-use employee self-serve HR portal.

Pay

$34–$36 per hour, with overtime available if desired.