Disability Benefits Advocate/Vocational Counselor

Disability Benefits Advocate/Vocational Counselor

Receive training to become certified as a Work Incentives Specialist Advocate! Are you familiar with Social Security and/or Medicaid benefits? Do you have experience working with people with disabilities? The Choice Group is seeking a Disability Benefits Advocate and training will be provided for qualified individual. You will be part of a team that empowers people with disabilities by providing the information and support they need to make informed choices about employment, earnings and financial independence.

This is a job with dual roles! As a Vocational Counselor, you will also support individuals with disabilities in obtaining and maintaining competitive, integrated employment in the community. The Choice Group is looking for an individual with human services experience, who is detail oriented and passionate about working with people with disabilities.

Under the Work Incentives Specialist Advocacy (WISA) Program, job duties include, but are not limited to:

• Providing benefits planning services for clients being served in any of The Choice Group’s vocational and Ticket to Work programs
• Developing, managing, and maintaining ongoing collaborative relationships with DARS and DBVI field offices to maximize the effectiveness of the WISA program and services
• Maintaining proactive communication (written, oral, and electronic) with referral sources, team, and supervisory staff

Vocational Counselor job responsibilities:

• Provide one-on-one job coaching and guidance to clients seeking employment
• Assist clients with resume building, job applications, and interviews
• Make employer connections in the community through individualized job development
• Support clients on job sites, providing hands-on training
• Help clients develop workplace readiness skills, including communication, time management, and professionalism
• Collaborate with employers to ensure successful job placements and retention
• Track client progress and maintain accurate documentation

Qualifications:

• Master's degree in a related field, Bachelor’s degree in a related field and 2 years experience, Associate’s degree (or equivalent credits) in a related field plus 4 years of experience, or a high school diploma and 10 years of related experience.
• WISA certification through Cornell University or VCU-WIPA and Community Partner certification preferred but not required
• Self-starter with computer and time management skills, who can work a varying schedule.
• Experience working with people with disabilities
• Detail oriented, strong time management, interpersonal and communication skills
• Valid driver’s license, dependable transportation
• Bi-lingual and ASL candidates and are encouraged to apply.