Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor ; PCN

Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor 1/2/3 (PCN 05-2022) – Anchorage, AK

The Division of Vocational Rehabilitation within the State of Alaska is hiring a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor at Levels 1/2/3 to work in the Anchorage office. This position is part of the General Government Unit (GGU) at Range 16/18/20 and is exempt from the Hiring Freeze (Administrative Order 358). No cover letter is required for applicants.

• Evaluate and determine client eligibility for vocational rehabilitation services.
• Approve individualized employment plans and authorize case closures.
• Provide counseling and guidance to clients with disabilities to identify career goals, overcome barriers, and achieve meaningful employment.
• Interpret assessments to determine each client’s strengths, abilities, and rehabilitation needs, and develop effective service strategies.
• Approve and monitor services such as assistive technology, medical or psychological evaluations, and training or placement supports in accordance with federal regulations.
• Collaborate with schools, employers, and community partners to coordinate services, promote program awareness, and support successful employment outcomes.

The Division of Vocational Rehabilitation assists individuals with disabilities in preparing for, obtaining, retaining, and advancing in competitive integrated employment. Counselors provide comprehensive vocational counseling and coordination of individualized rehabilitation services, develop partnerships with employers and community providers, and ensure services comply with federal and state regulations. A person‑centered approach promotes informed choice, independence, and meaningful employment outcomes for Alaskans with disabilities.

You will have a direct impact on improving the lives of individuals by supporting their journey toward independence and long‑term employment success across both urban and rural areas.

This position is located in a quiet administrative office and operates during regular business hours (8 am – 5 pm). Flexibility is available within those hours and the ability to telework  will collaborate with a team of para‑professional and professional staff assisting Alaskans with disabilities.

• Psychology:
  Knowledge of concepts, principles, and theories of human behavior and performance in various contexts and the assessment and treatment of behavioral and affective disorders.
• Customer Service:
  Ability to assess client needs, provide information or assistance, resolve problems, and satisfy expectations; knowledge of available products and services.
• Interpersonal
  
  Skills:
  
  Understanding, friendliness, courtesy, tact, empathy, and concern; effective relationship building, including working with individuals who are difficult, hostile, or distressed.
• Oral Communication:
  Effective information presentation to individuals or groups; clear and convincing oral presentations; attentive listening and responsive communication.
• Teamwork:
  Encouraging cooperation, fostering trust, and working collaboratively to achieve goals.

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college.

AND any combination of education, training, and/or experience that demonstrates competencies in:

• Analytical Thinking/Problem Solving:
  Uses a logical, systematic, sequential approach to address problems or opportunities.
• Oral and Written Communication:
  Effective communication tailored to the audience, with clear and convincing oral and written presentations.
• Continual Learning:
  Recognizes own strengths and weaknesses and pursues self‑development.
• Interpersonal
  
  Skills:
  
  Demonstrates empathy, courtesy, and effective relationship building across diverse backgrounds.
• Social Services:
  Knowledge of principles, theories, and current trends in social services, including program design and evaluation.

Equivalently, experience may include direct social assistance services to individuals with disabilities, guidance counseling, pre‑employment services, job placement services, social work, mental or behavioral health services, or…