Integrated Employment Counselor

JVS; Montclair (NJ); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

An employment services organization in New Jersey seeks an Integrated Employment Counselor to assist individuals with disabilities in achieving competitive, integrated employment. The role involves developing Individualized Employment Plans, conducting assessments, and facilitating job training. Candidates should have a Master's degree in a related field and at least 2 years of relevant experience. This position requires traveling to schools and worksites, making reliable transportation essential.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in vocational rehabilitation, psychology, social work, special education, or a related field.
• At least 2 years of experience working with individuals with disabilities.
• Knowledge of competitive integrated employment standards and workplace accommodations.

Responsibilities

• Conduct assessments to evaluate clients’ skills and career interests.
• Develop and implement Individualized Employment Plans (IEPs).
• Provide job coaching and mentoring for clients transitioning to employment.

Skills

Assessment skills

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Job readiness training

Relationship management

Education

Master’s degree in vocational rehabilitation or related field

Job description

Reports to: Director of Competitive Integrated Employment (CIE)

Employment Status: Full-time, non-exempt

The Role

Under the direct supervision of the Director of Vocational Rehabilitation Services, the Integrated Employment Counselor assists individuals with disabilities or other employment barriers in achieving competitive, integrated employment. Responsibilities include conducting assessments, developing Individualized Employment Plans (IEPs), and facilitating job training, life skills development, career exploration, along with building partnerships with employers for inclusive hiring opportunities.

Essential Functions

Conduct assessments to evaluate clients’ skills, strengths, and career interests.

Develop and implement Individualized Employment Plans (IEPs) based on assessment outcomes and client goals.

Lead job readiness training sessions covering workplace etiquette, communication, time management, and teamwork.

Provide life skills training, focusing on areas like personal finance, self-advocacy, and independent living.

Facilitate career exploration, including resume building, interview preparation, and job search strategies.

Coordinate community-based work experiences, such as job shadowing and internships, to prepare clients for the workforce.

Offer on-site job coaching and mentoring, supporting clients as they transition into competitive employment.

Apply ABA techniques to support clients’ skill-building, adaptive behavior, and social integration.

Establish and maintain partnerships with employers committed to inclusive hiring practices.

Act as a liaison between clients and employers, addressing workplace accommodation and support needs.

Track client progress, documenting milestones, employment outcomes, and retention rates.

Perform fee-for-service activities, including evaluation, customized employment planning, job placement, and on-the-job coaching, to promote successful integration and sustained employment outcomes.

Prepare regular reports detailing client achievements, program impact, and areas for improvement.

Participate in preparations for CARF accreditation as needed.

Perform other duties consistent with program needs and not calling for materially different skills.

Qualifications and Experience

Master’s degree in vocational rehabilitation, psychology, social work, special education, or a related field.

At least 2 years of experience working with individuals with disabilities.

Knowledge of CIE standards, disability rights, and workplace accommodations.

Experience with ABA techniques and adaptive skill development.

Strong communication and organizational skills to manage relationships with clients, employers, and community partners.

Travel

Must be willing to travel and have reliable transportation as this is required for this position. There will be travel to schools, state offices, worksites, etc.