EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM COUNSELOR - (BLIND SERVICES)

Employment Program Counselor - Blind Services

The Florida Department of Education has an open position for an Employment Program Counselor in the Division of Blind Services, District 1, Pensacola Office. This position offers a salary range of $47,349.96 to $52,084.96 annually. The position is responsible for executing 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.

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:

• 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 Florida Division of Blind Services ensures 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.