Vocational Rehab Counselor II

Hiring Agency: Blind & Visually Impaired Commission - Agency 81, Lincoln, NE. Hiring rate: $24.208.

About the role

The Nebraska Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired helps blind and visually impaired Nebraskans achieve full and rewarding lives through independent living skills and employment assistance. As a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor II, you will serve individuals of all ages, tailoring services to each client’s unique needs—such as blindness skills training, job skills training, or securing and retaining employment. Field assignments require travel within the Lincoln District, including the Norfolk area.

Successful candidates must pass an extensive criminal background check and complete 600 hours of immersion training in Lincoln to earn the Certification as a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor for the Blind (CVRCB).

Responsibilities

• Describe available services to new referrals and gather information to complete applications.
• Refer blind consumers to services offered by other agencies or organizations as appropriate.
• Determine eligibility for services based on the applicant's strengths, resources, priorities, concerns, abilities, capabilities, interests, and informed choice.
• Gather medical information as needed to document blindness or visual impairment.
• Develop an individualized plan for employment with consumers to maximize employment, economic self-sufficiency, independence, and full participation in society.
• Develop an individualized plan for independent living with consumers who have independent living goals.
• Counsel clients on adjusting to blindness, emphasizing a positive understanding of blindness and the belief that blind people can fully participate in society using alternative skills.
• Promote networking and learning opportunities with positive blind role models.
• Coordinate training in alternative skills of blindness provided by orientation counselors in the field or at the Training Center for the Blind.
• Coordinate vocational training or other services in preparation for job placement or independent living goals.
• Provide career exploration, job readiness training, and job placement services.
• Assist with special programs offering concentrated training and socialization opportunities for blind consumers in small group settings.
• Provide follow-up services for vocational adjustment, including working with family members.
• Monitor progress toward personal goals in individual service plans and maintain documentation in compliance with federal and state regulations.
• Collaborate with schools, higher education institutions, healthcare providers, human service agencies, consumer groups, and community resources on behalf of blind consumers.
• Conduct presentations to promote awareness and understanding of blindness and the capabilities of blind people.
• Participate in in-service training related to rehabilitation of the blind, including workshops and meetings for students, parents/guardians, and teachers.
• Help develop after-school/work experiences for blind/visually impaired students.
• Prepare and implement instructional programs addressing skills such as social skills, networking, computer use (email, internet, social media, screen readers, or low vision applications), cooking, homemaking, Braille, and cane travel.
• Perform other duties as assigned within the scope of the classification.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in social science, behavioral science, social work, counseling/guidance, vocational rehabilitation, psychology, sociology, human development, education, or a related field and two years of experience; OR a Master’s degree in any of the above fields and one year of experience.
• Maintain CVRCB Certification once acquired on the job.
• Travel approximately 4 days per week within the assigned region, with occasional overnight stays for trainings/programs. A valid driver’s license is required (accommodations available for disabilities).
• Regular and reliable attendance.
• Complete 600 hours of immersion training in Lincoln at NCBVI expense to earn CVRCB certification.

Skills

• Knowledge of the agency’s philosophy of working with the blind and educational modalities (e.g., Braille, cane travel, assistive technology).
• Understanding of challenges arising from blindness and counseling techniques for rehabilitation.
• Skill in evaluating client needs and preparing/implementing instructional programs.
• Ability to organize and coordinate instructional programs, evaluate results, and revise as needed.
• Strong rapport-building with clients, the public, and service agencies.
• Basic computer skills.

Benefits

• 13 paid holidays.
• Vacation and sick leave accruing immediately.
• Military leave.
• 156% state-matched retirement.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• Employee assistance program.
• 79% employer-paid health insurance plans.
• Dental and vision insurance plans.
• Employer-paid $20,000 life insurance policy.
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF) through the Federal government.
• Career advancement opportunities as part of the largest and most diverse employer in the state.
• Training and development aligned with career aspirations.
• Supportive and collaborative team environment.