Program Counselor Blind Services

Overview

EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM COUNSELOR -  (BLIND SERVICES)

Date:
Sep 15, 2025

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Agency: Department of Education

Working Title: EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM COUNSELOR -  (BLIND SERVICES)

Position Number:

Salary: $47,277.00 to $52,004.70 Annually

Location: District 2/Tallahassee (Leon County)

Office: Bureau of Client Services & Program Support

Division: Division of Blind Services

This position is in the Division of Blind Services, District 2 Tallahassee Office. The Employment Program Counselor works with DBS clients and local businesses and other federal, state, public and non-profit employers, providing unique, specialized services to blind adults and children through the vision rehabilitation process, including advocacy, referral and resource development, counseling and guidance, and all other aspects of Independent Living, Children’s, and Vocational Rehabilitation Services.

• Maintain and practice a current understanding of FDOE and DBS policies and guidelines regarding information security.
• Provide unique, specialized services to blind adults and children throughout the vision rehabilitation process including advocacy, referral and resource development, counseling and guidance, and all other aspects of Independent Living, Children’s, and Vocational Rehabilitation services.
• Conduct outreach activities to increase on-the-job training, apprenticeships, work-based learning, volunteering, and employment opportunities.
• Participate in job development, placement and follow-up activities of clients and utilize specific assessment tools as directed by policies and procedures.
• Provide and document required client contacts, initial interview assessments, plan development, closure reports, implement and coordinate services in accordance with time frames, policies, and procedures specified in the case service manual.
• Model and demonstrate flexibility, adaptability, and approachability while adhering to applicable laws, rules, policies and procedures.
• Exhibit effective communication, collaboration, and cooperation.
• Ensure services are expedited to applicants and clients with actual job offers and those at risk of losing employment.
• Utilize understanding of education and training programs for blind and visually impaired clients to increase attainment of post-secondary credentials aligned with industry needs.
• Obtain and interpret eye medical/other information to determine eligibility for services.
• Develop and amend Individualized Plans of Employment reflecting required services to obtain or maintain competitive integrated employment.
• Coordinate with education/training programs that provide workforce preparation activities and services to help individuals acquire a combination of academic knowledge and skills.
• Coordinate services with local providers and community partners to develop referrals and coordinate services.
• Utilize understanding of the Ticket to Work program to assist participants in seeking employment.
• Provide opportunities for and information about recreational/extracurricular activities when appropriate.
• Provide community education, outreach, guidance, and training about blindness and document activities in AWARE.
• Provide liaison services to schools and participate in the development of Individual Education Plans when requested.
• Assist teachers, employers, and training sites with adaptations and modifications when requested.
• Participate in transition staffing and make referrals to the VR program through quarterly meetings.
• Encourage clients to attain industry-recognized certificates and credentials.
• Encourage client development of self-advocacy skills.
• Conduct follow-up calls with clients and employers at designated intervals to determine further services and opportunities.
• Assist in meeting program goals and ensure services meet WIOA performance measures.
• Monitor service provision to ensure clients achieve vocational goals and maintain independent living skills.
• Develop and maintain caseload management techniques using the AWARE system.
• Promote client satisfaction and resolve issues when…