EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM COUNSELOR - (BLIND SERVICES)

Employment Program Counselor - Blind Services

The Florida Department of Education (FDOE) has an open position for an Employment Program Counselor in the Division of Blind Services, District 1 Pensacola Office. This position works with DBS clients and local businesses and other federal, state, public, and non-profit employers, providing unique, specialized services to blind adults and children through the vision rehabilitation process, including advocacy, referral and resource development, counseling and guidance, and all other aspects of Independent Living, Children's, and Vocational Rehabilitation Services.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Maintain and practice a current understanding of FDOE and DBS policies and guidelines regarding information security.
• Provide unique, specialized services to blind adults and children throughout the vision rehabilitation process including advocacy, referral and resource development, counseling and guidance, and all other aspects of Independent Living, Children's, and Vocational Rehabilitation services.
• Conduct outreach activities to increase on-the-job training, apprenticeships, work-based learning, volunteering, and employment opportunities.
• Participate in job development, placement and follow-up activities of clients and utilize specific assessment tools as directed by policies and procedures.
• Provide and document required client contacts, initial interview assessments, plan development, closure reports, implement and coordinate services in accordance with timeframes, policies, and procedures specified in the case service manual.
• Model and demonstrate the principals of flexibility, adaptability, and approachability - while adhering to applicable laws, rules, policies and procedures.
• Exhibit effective communication, collaboration, and cooperation.
• Ensure services are expedited to applicants and clients with actual job offers and those who are at risk of losing employment.
• Utilize understanding of education and training programs for blind and visually impaired clients to increase attainment of recognized post-secondary credentials that align with the skill needs of industries that lead to career pathways.
• Obtain and interpret eye medical/other information to determine eligibility for services in accordance with program procedures.
• Develop and amend Individualized Plans of Employment reflecting the required and appropriate services necessary for the client to obtain or maintain competitive integrated employment paying above subminimum wages.
• Focus on career pathways by coordinating with education/training programs that provide workforce preparation activities, programs, and services designed to help an individual acquire a combination of academic knowledge and skills.
• Coordinate necessary services such as independent living skills, assistive technology, orientation & mobility, supported employment, communication and vocational skills training with local providers.
• Work cooperatively with community providers, eye medical facilities and government agencies to develop referrals and coordinate services.
• Utilize understanding of the Ticket to Work program to assist "ticket holders" in their efforts to find or retain employment for self-sufficiency.
• Provide opportunities for and information about recreational/extracurricular activities and advocate for client participation in these types of activities when appropriate.
• Provide community education, outreach, guidance, and training about blindness and document those activities in AWARE.
• Provide liaison services to schools and participate in the development of Individual Education Plans when requested.
• Assist teachers, employers and training sites - when requested - by making adaptations and/or modifications.
• Participate in transition staffing and make recommendations for new referrals to the VR program through meetings with the Independent Living/Children's Rehabilitation Specialist on a quarterly basis.
• Encourage clients to attain industry-recognized certificates and credentials linked to occupations in high demand.
• Encourage the client's development of self-advocacy skills.
• Conduct follow-up calls with clients and employers within 90 days of employment start date, as well as at the 180-day and employment anniversary to determine further services and possible job opportunities for other clients.
• Work with district leadership to ensure additional services are coordinated.
• Assist in meeting program goals assigned by the state office and individually by the District Administrator by facilitating successful employment outcomes.
• Focus on activities that lead to meeting WIOA performance measures, such as seeking opportunities for students and youth with disabilities to practice workplace skills, encouraging utilization of online job systems, strengthening employer relationships, and promoting integrated employment.
• Monitor the provision of services to ensure clients have the functional and independent living skills necessary to achieve the vocational goal.
• Develop, maintain, and improve techniques for caseload management, utilizing the electronic client information system (AWARE) to gather accurate data and generate reports.
• Promote client satisfaction.
• Handle and attempt to resolve client issues before moving to the next level (Assistant District Administrator or District Administrator).
• Understand various eye conditions and their impact on functional vision and convey this information in employment settings.
• Understand the rehabilitation process and abilities, strengths, and capabilities of people who are blind or visually impaired.
• Participate in statewide training program.
• Other duties as requested.

Some travel is required.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Knowledge of methods of compiling, organizing and analyzing data.
• Ability to utilize problem-solving techniques.
• Ability to understand and apply applicable rules, regulations, policies and procedures.
• Ability to prioritize workload.
• Ability to develop various reports.
• Ability to manage people.
• Ability to assess budgetary needs.
• Ability to formulate policies and procedures.
• Ability to communicate effectively.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.
• Ability to plan, organize and direct programs or activities.

Who We're Looking For:

The ideal incumbent must be productive under tight timeframes, balance multiple and competing priorities, and maintain goal-directed behavior and performance sometimes under stressful conditions. The incumbent must interact courteously with others. The performance and behavior of all employees must demonstrate consideration of the workload concerns of others and must not negatively affect productivity and morale of the unit. Attendance is an essential function.

Minimum Qualifications:

• A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in a field of study reasonably related to vocational rehabilitation, to indicate a level of competency and skill demonstrating basic preparation in a field of study such as vocational rehabilitation counseling; or
• Four years of professional and relevant experience in a public vocational rehabilitation program.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Preference will be given to candidates with:
• A bachelor's or master's degree from an accredited college or university.
• Three (3) to five (5) years' experience in a public vocational rehabilitation program.
• An ability to establish and maintain education and experience requirements to ensure an understanding of the evolving labor force and the needs of individuals with disabilities.
• Knowledge of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA).
• Knowledge of pre-employment transition services.
• A Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) designation; or who is eligible to become a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC).
• A Certified Community Work Incentives Counselor (CWIC) designation.

The Division of Blind Services ensure blind and visually impaired Floridians have the tools, support and opportunities to achieve success. In partnership with others, we create a barrier-free environment in the lives of Floridians with visual disabilities. The Florida Division of Blind Services helps blind and visually impaired individuals achieve their goals and live their lives with as much independence and self-direction as possible.

Working for the State of Florida has Benefits!

• State Group Insurance Coverage options (health, life, dental, vision, and other supplemental options)
• Nine paid holidays and a Personal Holiday each year.
• Student Loan Forgiveness Program (Eligibility required).
• Tuition Fee Waivers (Accepted by major Florida colleges/universities).
• Maternity and Parental Leave Benefits.
• Retirement plan options, including employer contributions.
• Annual and Sick Leave Benefits.
• Flexible Spending Accounts.
• Ongoing comprehensive training provided.
• Highly skilled, professional environment.

For a more complete list of benefits, visit the My Benefits Website at: State of Florida Benefits