Vocational Rehabilitation Specialist II - ASL Required (Frederick - DHHU)

Introduction The Maryland State Department of Education is dedicated to supporting a world‑class educational system that prepares all students for college and career success in the 21st century. With excellent stewardship from our divisions, we oversee State and federal programs that support the needs of a diverse population – students, teachers, principals, and other educators throughout Maryland. Location of Position DORS Office of Field Services 1890 North Market Street, Suite 300 Frederick, MD 21701 Hybrid schedule may be available after completion of training (up to 3 telework days permitted each week) Position Duties The Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Specialist provides services to increase employment and advancement opportunities for individuals with disabilities. The Specialist assists consumers so that they may maintain, prepare for and obtain gainful employment consistent with their interest, skills, capacities, strengths, resources, priorities, concerns, abilities, capabilities, and informed choices. The Specialist position ensures the application of federal and state regulations and division policy, completes initial interviews, determines applicant eligibility for services, determines the nature and scope of services necessary to address disability barriers, addresses employment readiness, and ensures identified services are provided and/or coordinated with various partners. This position will serve deaf and hard of hearing consumers in Region I. This Specialist must be fluent in American Sign Language. Coordinates services to assist deaf and hard of hearing consumers in preparing for or obtaining employment. Determines eligibility of vocational rehabilitation services. Provides individual career counseling to deaf and hard of hearing consumers. Reviews medical, psychological and vocational records to evaluate the nature and extent of the disability. Obtains services from other community agencies for deaf and hard of hearing consumers. Provides job placement, post-employment, and follow-up services. Apply federal/state regulations, as well as DORS policies and procedures, regarding eligibility for vocational rehabilitation or Pre-ETS program. Minimum Qualifications Education: Possession of a Bachelor's degree. Experience: Two years of professional experience in a behavioral or social science‑related field or one year of professional experience as a Vocational Rehabilitation Specialist I providing rehabilitation counseling or vocational evaluation services to clients with physical or behavioral disabilities, or teaching services to clients with partial or total visual impairment. Note: A master's degree and one year of experience in a behavioral or social science‑related field may be substituted for two years of the required experience. Selective Qualifications Applicants must meet the selective qualification(s) to be considered. Must be fluent in American Sign Language. Desired or Preferred Qualifications Preference will be given to applicants who possess the following preferred qualification(s). Professional experience working with the deaf or hard of hearing population. Using an electronic case management system. Experience in a Human Services field. Experience providing career counseling. Skill in adaptive and assistive technologies. Special Requirements Applicants must consent to a State Police Investigation (fingerprinting) as a routine procedure for all employees with this Agency. Proof of eligibility to work is required in compliance with the Immigration Reform and Control Act. Any misrepresentation of academic or experience requirements for this position may result in non-selection or termination of employment. As an equal opportunity employer, Maryland is committed to recruiting, retaining and promoting employees who are reflective of the State’s diversity. People with disabilities and bilingual candidates are encouraged to apply. We thank our Veterans for their service to our country. #J-18808-Ljbffr State of Maryland