VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION COUNSELOR

Salary: $20.00-$30.00 Hourly

Based on combination of Experience and Education.

Minimum Qualifications:

Master’s degree in Vocational Rehabilitation, Counseling, Social Work, Psychology, Human Services, or a related field and one (1) year of experience providing vocational rehabilitation, employment counseling, workforce development, behavioral health, or substance use disorder services; or Bachelor’s degree in a related field and three (3) years of relevant experience. Valid New York State Driver’s License required.

Job Summary:

In accordance with the organization’s mission, vision, and values, the Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor provides vocational rehabilitation, employment counseling, job readiness, and job placement services to individuals with substance use disorders engaged in treatment or recovery. The position assists individuals in achieving person-centered educational and employment goals through assessment, career planning, workforce development, and employment support services. The Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor collaborates with employers, workforce development agencies, educational institutions, treatment providers, and community partners to expand employment opportunities and reduce barriers to employment. The position is responsible for documentation, employment outcome tracking, and compliance with agency, grant, and OASAS requirements and provides services throughout the Finger Lakes region.The following duties will apply:

Duties:

• 1. Conduct employment readiness assessments and vocational evaluations to identify strengths, barriers, skills, interests, and employment goals.
• 2. Interdisciplinary staff meeting attendance and participation. Collaboration on recovery plans with the residential & clinical treatment staff.
• 3. Participates in group and individual supervision and team meetings.
• 4. Interface with education and vocational agencies that provide service to our clients to collaborate ongoing progress updates.
• 5. Charting and documentation compliance, as per OASAS regulatory standards.
• 6. Monthly statistics regarding client’s participation in training, remediation, etc. are tabulated and given to the Departmental Supervisor.
• 7. Collaborate with ACCES-VR, workforce development agencies, educational institutions, and community providers to coordinate vocational and employment services.
• 8. Facilitation of vocational groups. Groups will focus on psycho-educational activities that prepare clients towards securing gainful employment.
• 9. Develop and maintain positive and effective relationships with community groups, referral sources, planning, funding and service agencies.
• 10. Coordinate referrals to community resources, workforce development programs, educational opportunities, and supportive services that enhance employment success.
• 11. Work individually with clients to develop and implement vocational service plans.
• 12. Provide vocational rehabilitation and employment services to individuals throughout the Finger Lakes Economic Development Region, including individuals receiving services outside of FLACRA programs.
• 13. Provide individual and group employment counseling focused on career exploration, employment readiness, job retention, and workforce development.
• 14. Assist individuals with resume development, job search activities, interviewing skills, application completion, and career planning.
• 15. Develop and maintain partnerships with employers, workforce development agencies, educational institutions, Chambers of Commerce, and community organizations.
• 16. Promote recovery-friendly workplaces and educate employers regarding the benefits of hiring individuals in recovery.
• 17. Conduct outreach and job development activities to identify employment opportunities and expand workforce pathways.
• 18. Track and document employment outcomes, including job placements and employment retention milestones.
• 19. Attend required OASAS trainings, technical assistance meetings, and regional workforce development activities.
• 20. Participate in the NYESS process when applicable.
• 21. Other duties and functions as directed.

Other Skills/Knowledge and Experience

• 1. Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• 2. Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively and work cooperatively with culturally diverse persons, staff and community service providers.
• 3. Knowledge of local behavioral health service system.
• 4. Ability to multi-task, have good problem solving & time management skills and the ability to remain calm in a crisis.
• 5. E-Record.