Employment Counselor

We are seeking an Employment Counselor to join our team in Middlesex County, NJ . Requirements Bachelor’s degree in human services, education, or psychology (preferred) High School diploma plus 2 years of experience in human services or education (required) Valid driver’s license Bilingual or Spanish language skills (a plus) Ability to lift a minimum of 30 lbs Ability to stand for extended periods Flexible schedule to work nights and weekends if needed Key Responsibilities Conduct vocational assessments Develop employment plans Provide job coaching and monitor progress Maintain all required documentation in compliance with DVRS and DDD guidelines The Employment Counselor promotes independence, self‑advocacy, and meaningful community participation, supporting individuals to achieve their employment goals. Consumer Assessment & Employment Planning Conduct vocational intake assessments for DVRS/DDD consumers. Collaborate with DVRS counselors and DDD Support Coordinators to develop Individualized Plans for Employment (IPE). Identify employment barriers and develop remediation strategies. Job Development & Employer Engagement Research and cultivate relationships with potential employers. Match consumer skills/abilities with appropriate job opportunities. Educate employers about DVRS/DDD programs and incentives. Direct Job Coaching & Support Provide intensive on‑site training during new hire transition period. Provide Follow‑Along services to consumers once they are stable on the job. Implement workplace accommodations and natural supports. Teach job tasks, workplace etiquette, and problem‑solving strategies. Case Management & Documentation Maintain quality, accurate daily case notes in SETWORKS system. Submit necessary reports for voucher closing as per timeline protocols. Provide strong problem‑solving skills for workplace barrier remediation. Complete all required billing and service documentation. Work with families and natural supports to increase positive outcomes. Transportation & Community Integration Train consumers in using public transportation when needed. Assist with travel route planning and mobility training. Support community navigation for work‑related activities. Stakeholder Collaboration Communicate regularly with DVRS counselors, families, and employers. Attend interdisciplinary team meetings as required. Provide transition updates and service recommendations. Administrative Duties Submit weekly calendars and timecards by deadlines. Track and report mileage for consumer services. Meet weekly billable hour requirements. Attend all mandatory trainings and supervision meetings. Benefits Merakey offers generous benefits that promote well‑being, financial security, and work‑life balance: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, plus access to healthcare advocacy support. Retirement plan – pre‑tax and Roth (after‑tax) options available for employee contributions. DailyPay – access your pay when you need it. On the Goga well‑being platform, featuring self‑care tools and resources. Access Care.com for backup childcare, elder care, and household services. Confidential counseling, legal, and financial services through our Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Tuition reimbursement and educational partnerships. Employee discounts and savings programs on entertainment, travel, and lifestyle. Access to Pryor Online Learning for free online personal development classes. Learn more about our full benefits package here . Equal Opportunity Employment Merakey is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer! We deeply value diversity and do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, ethnic background, sex, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, genetic information, or disability status. Moreover, we are committed to creating teams that reflect the diversity of the communities we serve and encourage applicants from underrepresented backgrounds to apply. Merakey welcomes all Veterans to apply! #J-18808-Ljbffr