Veteran Employment Counselor

Job Summary:

The Employment Specialist working under the Homeless Veterans Reintegration Program (HVRP) grant at Vocational Rehabilitation Specialists, Inc. (VRSI) is responsible for assisting homeless veterans in securing and maintaining employment. This role involves providing comprehensive employment services including job readiness training, career counseling, job placement assistance, and ongoing support to ensure long-term job retention. The ideal candidate will be passionate about helping veterans reintegrate into the workforce and improve their quality of life.

Company Overview:

Vocational Rehabilitation Specialists Inc. (VRSI) is committed to aiding Military Veterans through the Department of Labor's Homeless Veteran Reintegration Program (HVRP). With 19 offices across the United States, VRSI provides vocational counseling, training, vocational evaluation, and direct employment services aimed at helping eligible veterans reach their full vocational potential.

Key Responsibilities:

Client Assessment and Case Management:

• Conduct comprehensive assessments of veterans' skills, experience, barriers to employment, and job readiness.
• Develop individualized employment plans that outline veterans' career goals, action steps, and timelines.
• Reaching individual assessed, qualified, placement and retention goals required by the grant.

Job Readiness Training:

• Provide training on resume writing, job search strategies, interview preparation, and professional conduct.
• Organize and facilitate job readiness workshops and training sessions.

Career Counseling and Support:

• Offer one-on-one career counseling to help veterans explore career options and make informed decisions.
• Provide ongoing support and follow-up to ensure veterans are progressing towards their employment goals.

Job Placement Assistance:

• Build and maintain relationships with local employers to identify job opportunities suitable for veterans.
• Assist veterans in applying for jobs, preparing for interviews, and negotiating employment terms.

Employer Engagement:

• Collaborate with employers to understand their hiring needs and promote the benefits of hiring veterans.
• Attend job fairs, employer panels, and networking events to connect veterans with potential employers.

Program Coordination and Reporting:

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date client records, case notes, and employment outcomes.
• Prepare and submit regular reports on program activities, outcomes, and grant compliance.

Community Collaboration and Outreach:

• Work with community partners, veteran service organizations, housing providers, employers, and other stakeholders to coordinate services, share resources, and strengthen referral networks for veterans experiencing or at risk of homelessness.
• Represent VRSI and the HVRP program at community meetings, veteran-focused coalitions, job fairs, Stand Downs, outreach events, and related activities.
• Act as a liaison between the program and the community, identifying service gaps and advocating for improved veteran support systems.
• Conduct regular in-person (field-based) outreach within the community, including travel to partner sites, shelters, encampments, and other locations where veterans may be served.
• This position requires reliable transportation and the use of a personal vehicle to perform essential job functions. Mileage reimbursement is provided in accordance with the current federal rate.

Qualifications:

• Education: Associate's degree in social work, human services, counseling, or a related field. Relevant experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
• Experience: Minimum of 2 years of experience in workforce development, employment services, or a related field. Experience working with veterans or homeless populations is highly preferred.

Skills and Abilities:

• Strong understanding of the challenges faced by homeless veterans.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Proficiency in using job search platforms, career assessment tools, and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to build and maintain professional relationships with clients, employers, and community partners.

Compensation and Benefits:

• Hourly Rate: $23-$25 based on experience
• Paid Company Holidays
• Sick Time
• Paid Time Off
• Healthcare
• 401k