Employment Counselor

Job Details Job Location: CDS Offices - Barre, VT 05641 Salary Range: $20.25 - $21.08 Hourly Job Shift: Any Job Category: Direct Service Employment Counselor Employment Counselor The Employment Counselor plays a meaningful role in helping individuals with developmental disabilities and autism build confidence, develop skills, and achieve success in the workplace. By providing individualized guidance, hands‑on coaching, and ongoing support, this role helps people secure and sustain meaningful community-based employment. Through close collaboration with job seekers, employers, and support teams, the Employment Coach promotes inclusive workplaces where individuals can thrive, contributing to greater independence, purpose, and long-term career growth. Summary of Duties Support individuals in identifying career goals through assessments, guided conversations, and job exploration activities. Assist with resume development, interview preparation, and job‑seeking strategies tailored to individual strengths. Provide initial job training and ongoing coaching to employees and employers to promote successful placements and retention. Collaborate with businesses to implement accommodations and conduct regular check‑ins; deliver follow‑along services such as benefits counseling and Social Security reporting. Develop and monitor employment plans in coordination with Individualized Service Agreements (ISAs). Supervise participants in agency‑operated work programs and contribute to a safe, inclusive work environment. Compensation and Benefits WCMHS provides a comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision, retirement, and a generous paid time off package that includes flexible holidays and 12 vacation days earned in your first year. The pay range for this full‑time position is $20.25 to $21.08 per hour. Qualifications Experience in supported employment highly preferable Bachelor's degree preferred, or an equivalent combination of education and experience Must have clean driving record and consistent, work‑day access to a safe, insured vehicle Knowledge of issues confronting the employment of people with disabilities and other diverse and vulnerable populations Open, direct, honest, and clear communication style with ability to exercise discretion and tact Strong writing and organizational skills Flexible and team‑oriented, with good listening skills Must be able to deliver services and complete required documentation in English Work Environment Duties are performed in an office setting, local communities, job sites, and individual’s homes where services are provided. Reliable transportation needed to perform essential functions of the position. Travel required for employer outreach, attend meetings and to respond to individual needs. Some work outside of the normal work schedule will be required, evenings and weekends. Access to internet and phone service in the home is essential. About the Agency Washington County Mental Health Services (WCMHS) has served the Washington County community and the Orange County towns of Orange, Washington, and Williamstown. WCMHS provides education, support, and treatment to individuals and families living with mental health challenges, substance use issues, and developmental and intellectual disabilities. Providing accessible, high‑quality services in the community, schools, and health care settings, we work toward positive outcomes for wellness with collaborative, inclusive, and compassionate care. Washington County Mental Health Services is "Where Hope and Support Come Together." #J-18808-Ljbffr