Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor Aide

Job ID: 37250 — Department of Human Services, Division of Rehabilitation Services, Rapid City, SD. $20.47/hour, Pay Grade F. Full-time, 40 hours/week. Closing date: 9/9/26.

About the Role

The Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor Aide is a key position in the operations of the Rapid City Vocational Rehabilitation District. This position works with individuals with disabilities who need assistance in obtaining or maintaining employment. Vocational Rehabilitation is a successful State and Federal funded program in assisting individuals with disabilities to obtain employment and being self-supporting. The Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor Aide will assist individuals with disabilities in applying for Vocational Rehabilitation Services. The Rehabilitation Counselor Aide also provides support services for Vocational Rehabilitation Counselors in assisting them with the individuals applying or receiving services. This position is typically 8 hours a day, Monday through Friday. Some travel will be required to deliver services in an assigned territory.

About DHS

The South Dakota Department of Human Services encompasses a broad field dedicated to offering services that support older adults and individuals with disabilities. Our programs promote independence and inclusion through person-centered services. DHS comes together with the common goal of bettering the lives of South Dakotans. DHS strives to create an environment where people are inspired and challenged to create excellence, grow their skills, discover advancement opportunities, and are rewarded for their contributions.

Knowledge Required

• Programs and services offered and their principles and practices
• Medical and psychological terminology and information
• Community and governmental agencies' resources
• Disability resources and the medical aspects of disabilities
• Computer applications such as Word and Internet Explorer
• Basic office procedures

Abilities Required

• Network with community resources as a liaison person
• Obtain and maintain informational resources for individuals with disabilities
• Provide ongoing support and assistance to vocational rehabilitation counselors
• Prepare applications and other program documents and forms
• Word process and complete forms accurately
• Read and comprehend materials
• Operate a variety of office equipment
• Communicate effectively
• Work effectively with a team; provide professional customer service to agencies, applicants, clients, and their families
• Understand and work effectively with individuals who have different abilities
• Maintain and update case filing, inventory, mailing, and database systems when needed
• Accurately process payments
• Use a computer case management system

Ideal Candidate

• Great customer service skills
• Able to multitask
• Able to work with a variety of people

Benefits

• 15 days/120 hours of vacation leave
• 14 days/112 hours of sick leave
• 11 paid holidays
• Employee health insurance includes a plan with a $0 premium for employee-only coverage
• Flexible benefits: dental, vision, life insurance, critical illness, and more
• Paid parental and family medical leave
• 6% fully matched retirement plan
• Reduced tuition for in-state colleges/universities
• Employee wellness program
• Continued education/training opportunities

Additional Requirements

• To be considered, please attach your resume.
• This position is eligible for Veterans' Preference per ARSD 55:10:02:08.
• NCRC: If you possess a National Career Readiness Certificate, please submit the certificate with your application. For more information on how to acquire a National Career Readiness Certificate, contact a South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation Job Service Office. A certificate is not necessary to be considered.
• The State of South Dakota does not sponsor work visas for new or existing employees. All persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and complete an Employment Eligibility Verification, Form I-9. The State of South Dakota as an employer will be using E-Verify to complete employment eligibility verification upon hire.
• This position is a member of Class A retirement under SDRS.