Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor I
This position is open to all State employees and external applicants. It is being recruited at multiple levels; to be considered for more than one level, you must apply to the specific Job Requisition (Level I: 55360, Level II: 55515). Multiple positions in the same work location may be filled from this posting.
About the Role
The Middlebury office of HireAbility Vermont is looking for an experienced human service professional with an ability to support high school students and young adults with physical, psychological, or cognitive disabilities. The VR counselor would assist individuals in preparing for employment through surveying their interests and skills and facilitate career exploratory activities and work experiences. As the student transitions from high school, the VR counselor would help the student identify post-secondary employment, education, and training options, and assist them in engaging in these activities. The position involves a close working relationship with local area high schools. Experience in counseling and/or a background in employment services is beneficial. Previous work with adolescents is extremely helpful.
Responsibilities
- Assessment, guidance, and counseling
- Assisting in finding employment and work experiences
- Case management and documentation
- Collaboration with many community providers
Requirements
- Good computer skills required, with proficiency in MS Office as well as various video platforms (MS Teams, Zoom, Facetime, etc.)
- Master's degree in rehabilitation counseling, psychology, social work, special education or counseling, education with a special education focus, or a related counseling field
- Candidates must pass any level of background investigation applicable to the position, including Vermont and/or national criminal record checks, as well as DMV and adult and child abuse registry checks, as appropriate to the position under recruitment, with the exception of those who are current classified state employees seeking transfer, promotion or demotion into an AHS classified position or are persons exercising re-employment (RIF) rights
Preferred Qualifications
- Professional level experience involving human services casework, preferably with individuals with disabilities
- The preferred degree is a Master's in Rehabilitation Counseling
Special Requirements
Successful applicants without a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) or master's degree in rehabilitation counseling will be required to make a written commitment to secure, within three years of hire, graduate level credits in the following core courses:
- Medical or Psychosocial Aspects of Disabilities
- Vocational Counseling
- Vocational Assessment and Evaluation
- Job Placement or Occupational Information
Environmental Factors
Duties are performed in a variety of settings including Department offices, consumer homes, institutions, work sites and premises of service providers. Substantial travel is required, for which private means of transportation must be available. Some work outside of normal office hours may be required.
Benefits
As a State employee you are offered a great career opportunity, but it's more than a paycheck. The State's total compensation package features an outstanding set of employee benefits that are worth about 30% of your total compensation, including:
- 80% State paid medical premium and a dental plan at no cost for employees and their families
- Work/Life balance: 12 paid holidays each year and a generous leave plan
- State Paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FMLI)
- Two ways to save for your retirement: A State defined benefit pension plan and a deferred compensation 457(b) plan
- Tuition Reimbursement
- Flexible spending healthcare and childcare reimbursement accounts
- Low cost group life insurance
- Incentive-based Wellness Program
- Qualified Employer for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness Program