Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor Trainee

Opening: 07/23/2026 – 08/05/2026 · Agency: Department of Human Services · Location: 6200 N Hiawatha Ave, Chicago, Illinois, 60646 · Work county: Cook · Full-time salaried position.

About the Role

The Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) is the state’s lead agency serving people with disabilities, committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, accessibility, and racial justice. The mission is to assist individuals with disabilities in achieving their goals of employment, education, and independent living.

This position coordinates customer case records and documents in a field office pertaining to service delivery for the Bureau of Customer and Community Field Services/Vocational Rehabilitation Program. As a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor Trainee, you will receive formal and informal training (not to exceed twelve months) to learn the rules, regulations, and policies of the Vocational Rehabilitation Program, ultimately managing a caseload to provide services that help individuals with disabilities gain competitive integrated employment.

DRS seeks a self-motivated, detail-oriented individual with strong communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Serve as a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor Trainee for up to twelve months, receiving orientation in principles, techniques, procedures, and policies related to rehabilitating persons with disabilities in general vocational rehabilitation, transition, Secondary Transition Experience Program (STEP), or specialty caseloads.
• Study and become proficient in utilizing the Division’s case management system.
• Travel to attend and participate in staff meetings, conferences, workshops, and in-service training related to rehabilitation counseling.
• Perform other duties as assigned or required within the scope of the role.

Requirements

• Master’s Degree from a college or university program accredited by the Council On Rehabilitation Education (CORE).
• OR a Master’s Degree from an accredited college or university in rehabilitation counseling, rehabilitation administration, clinical psychology, counseling psychology, deaf education, special education, or a closely related field.
• Ability to travel.

*Qualifying state employees in the Upward Mobility Program may complete combinations of specific proficiency tests and training programs leading to a certificate of proficiency in lieu of the stated degree requirements.

Pay

Anticipated salary: \$5,328–\$7,480/month (\$63,936–\$89,760/year).

Schedule

Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM–5:00 PM, with a 1-hour unpaid lunch break.

Benefits

As a State of Illinois employee, you will receive a robust benefits package, including health, dental, vision, retirement plans, paid leave, and career advancement opportunities.