Employment Counselor

Employment CounselorAre you looking for an opportunity to grow your career while helping others do the same? At Waters & Sims, a member of the Merakey family of companies, we empower people living with disabilities to live, work, and integrate successfully into the community. We are seeking a full-time Employment Counselor to join our Supported Employment Services team in lower Monmouth County, NJ.This community-based role requires travel throughout lower Monmouth County, with potential travel in Ocean County as needed.Full-time, 40 hours per weekMonday - Friday 8:30-4:30pmOccasional evenings and weekends required$22.12/Hour + BenefitsPosition DetailsThe Employment Counselor provides individualized vocational support to adults with disabilities referred through the New Jersey Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services (DVRS) and Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD). This position is responsible for assisting individuals in exploring career interests, developing job readiness skills, securing competitive integrated employment, and maintaining long-term job success.The Employment Specialist works closely with consumers, families, employers, and community partners to identify opportunities, advocate for workplace inclusion, and provide on-the-job training and supports.Key responsibilities include:Conduct vocational assessments and develop individualized employment plans for DVRS/DDD consumersIdentify employment barriers and create strategies to address themBuild relationships with employers, match consumers to suitable jobs, and educate businesses on DVRS/DDD programsProvide on-site job coaching, teach workplace skills, implement accommodations, and offer follow-along supportMaintain accurate documentation in SETWORKS, complete billing and reports, and collaborate with families and natural supportsProvide travel training, assist with route planning, and support community navigationCommunicate regularly with DVRS counselors, employers, families, and attend required team meetingsComplete administrative tasks including submitting calendars/timecards, tracking mileage, meeting billable hour requirements, and attending mandatory trainingsBenefitsWaters & Sims employees have access to benefits that promote well-being, financial security, and work-life balance, including:Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, plus healthcare advocacy support.Retirement plan with pre-tax and Roth contribution options.DailyPay, providing access to your pay when you need it.On the Goga well-being platform, featuring self-care tools and resources.Care.com access for backup childcare, elder care, and household services.Confidential counseling and legal and financial resources through the Employee Assistance Program.Tuition reimbursement and educational partnerships.Employee discounts on entertainment, travel, and lifestyle services.Free personal and professional development courses through Pryor Online Learning.About Waters & SimsWaters & Sims helps individuals with disabilities prepare for, obtain, and maintain meaningful employment. Through personalized coaching, skill development, employer partnerships, and ongoing workplace support, our team helps the people we serve build greater confidence and independence.Waters & Sims is a member of the Merakey family of companies. Merakey is a nonprofit provider of developmental, behavioral health, and education services. More than 8,000 employees support nearly 40,000 individuals and families across 12 states each year.Merakey and its family of companies strictly follow a zero-tolerance policy for abuse.Waters & Sims and Merakey are proud to be Equal Opportunity Employers. We deeply value diversity and do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, ethnic background, sex, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, genetic information, disability status, or any other protected characteristic. We are committed to building teams that reflect the communities we serve and encourage applicants from underrepresented backgrounds to apply. Veterans are encouraged to apply.QualificationsBachelor's degree in human services, education, psychology preferredHigh School diploma plus 2 years' experience in human services or education, requiredValid Driver's licenseBilingual or Spanish is a plus!Must be able to lift a minimum of 30lbsMust be able to stand for a period of time