Rehabilitation Assistant - Waterloo

Rehabilitation Assistant

Iowa Vocational Rehabilitation Services (IVRS) is seeking a Rehabilitation Assistant to join our team at the Iowa WORKS office in Waterloo, Iowa. This role is more than a job-it is an opportunity to partner with individuals with disabilities as they build meaningful, sustainable employment and greater independence.

Position Details

• Location: 3420 University Ave., Waterloo, IA
• Schedule: Full-time | Monday – Friday | 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
• Hybrid telework and alternate work schedule opportunities after 6-months of employment has been completed

New State of Iowa employees will be expected to start at base salary of $17.96 hourly, $1,436.80 bi-weekly, $37,356.80 annually.

What You'll Do

Empower individuals to achieve meaningful employment and greater independence through personalized vocational rehabilitation services. By guiding job candidates from initial referral through job placement and retention, this role supports skill development, builds confidence, and fosters strong partnerships with employers and community stakeholders.

If you are motivated by purpose-driven work, collaboration, and helping others reach their full potential, we encourage you to apply.

Core Responsibilities

Intake & Orientation Support

• Welcome and guide new job seekers by sharing helpful information about our programs and services
• Support applicants step-by-step with completing referrals and applications—no prior experience needed
• Schedule and coordinate intake appointments to help candidates get started smoothly
• Lead friendly, easy-to-follow orientations for new participants
• Help job seekers build confidence by facilitating Job Seeking Skills Training (JSST)
• Run interactive Job Club sessions that make learning fun and practical
• Conduct mock interviews to prepare candidates for real-world job opportunities
• Work one-on-one and in small groups to provide personalized support and encouragement

Candidate Assessment, Development & Support

• Conduct intake interviews and complete required documentation
• Explain program services, rights, responsibilities, and expectations
• Build supportive relationships and coach workplace behaviors
• Provide individualized guidance, reinforce appropriate behaviors, and redirect disruptions
• Maintain ongoing contact to monitor progress and support employment goals

Job Placement, Coaching & Employer Relations

• Deliver job search training and assist with securing employment
• Communicate with employers regarding hiring needs, concerns, and workplace issues
• Accompany candidates to interviews and provide limited on-the-job coaching
• Observe performance, identify skill gaps, and support job retention
• Collaborate with counseling staff and employers on progress reviews and job maintenance

Case Management, Documentation & Compliance

• Maintain accurate case records (open, transfer, close files)
• Process documentation (releases, verifications, correspondence, case notes)
• Track services using case management systems
• Ensure accuracy, professionalism, and adherence to regulatory deadlines

Customer Service & Coordination

• Serve as first point of contact: greet visitors, answer calls, and direct inquiries
• Manage scheduling, cancellations, and updates to records
• Communicate changes and respond to inquiries promptly
• Participate in team meetings and provide backup support to maintain office operations

The successful candidate must be able to pass a criminal background check conducted by the Iowa Department of Public Safety.

What We're Looking For

• Strong interpersonal & communication skills
• Passion for helping others succeed
• Organizational & time management skills
• Problem-solving & conflict resolution skills
• Attention to detail & accuracy
• Customer service mindset
• Adaptability & initiative

Essential Functions

• Communicate with clients to gather information, manage cases, and build rapport.
• Explain services, program guidelines, and next steps clearly.
• Review information for accuracy, determine eligibility, and request additional documentation as needed.
• Prepare and maintain case records, reports, and correspondence using computer systems.
• Enter, track, and manage data using Microsoft Office and internal databases.
• Provide clerical and case management support to staff.
• Organize and maintain digital files and tracking systems.
• Support daily office operations through email, documents, spreadsheets, and databases.

Why This Role Matters

Through a combination of direct support, training, and coordination, the Rehabilitation Assistant plays a vital role in helping individuals overcome barriers and succeed in the workforce while advancing the agency's mission to create inclusive employment opportunities for all.

About the Agency

Iowa Vocational Rehabilitation Services (IVRS) operates within Iowa Workforce Development (IWD) and is dedicated to helping individuals with disabilities achieve independence through employment.

IWD is a statewide agency focused on connecting job seekers with opportunities and supporting employers in building strong, skilled workforces. Through Iowa WORKS centers and partner offices across the state, IWD delivers demand-driven workforce services that strengthen Iowa's economy and communities.

Employer Highlights and Benefits

IWD is focused on serving Iowans and providing outstanding customer service. Our strength is driven by the skills and talents of our people. IWD offers a rewarding team atmosphere, a flexible working environment, and a great total compensation package for our full-time employees, including:

• Excellent health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous paid time off, including nine paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave with no cap on the sick leave accrual.
• Prepare for the future with the IPERS retirement package, as well as an additional optional deferred compensation retirement plan.
• Flexible Spending Accounts for medical and dependent care.
• Free Life and Long-term Disability Insurance with the option to purchase additional coverage.
• Employee Assistance Programs and Discount Programs for support.

Click here to learn more about all of the amazing benefits the State of Iowa offers.