Vocational Evaluation Specialist; Regional Vocational Evaluation Specialist

Overview

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is one of the largest and most complex agencies in the state, employing approximately 17,000 staff to ensure the health, safety, and well‑being of all North Carolinians. The agency provides human services for special populations, including individuals who are deaf, blind, developmentally disabled, or mentally ill, and helps low‑income residents achieve economic independence.

The Vocational Evaluation Specialist (S) serves as a consultant, trainer, and evaluator for vocational evaluators in the Western Region of North Carolina. The role supports new and existing evaluators, bridges gaps in regional programs, and provides subject‑matter expertise on vocational evaluation practices.

• Assess the quality of vocational evaluators’ work through case reviews and provide feedback and training.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of the regional vocational evaluation program and recommend strategic improvements aligned with regional goals and best practices.
• Collaborate with other Regional Evaluation Specialists to ensure consistency in evaluation policies, methods, and standards.
• Work with unit managers and supervisory staff to support evaluator performance and skill attainment.
• Participate on multidisciplinary teams and committees, and engage in outreach to increase awareness of evaluation services within the region.
• Assist in coordinating evaluation services in offices with evaluator vacancies and complete assessments when designated evaluators are unavailable.

• Experience and/or knowledge of mentoring, coaching, and training employees in vocational evaluation fundamentals using an individualized approach.
• Knowledge of psychological, social, and special‑education concepts related to vocational abilities and potential of individuals with disabilities.
• Knowledge of evaluative tools, work samples, and job‐sampling techniques specific to vocational evaluation of individuals with disabilities.
• Proficiency in producing written communications and detailed vocational evaluation reports that support counselors in career planning.
• Experience analyzing data and existing evaluative techniques and developing and standardizing new methods.

• Master’s degree in vocational evaluation, rehabilitation counseling, or a closely related human services field from an accredited institution and one year of experience in vocational evaluation of individuals with disabilities.
• Bachelor’s degree in the same field from an accredited institution, current certification by a nationally recognized certifying body, and three years of progressive experience as a vocational evaluator.
• An equivalent combination of education and experience.

Employees participate in state‑wide health insurance options, standard and supplemental retirement plans, and the NCFlex program, which offers low‑cost pre‑tax benefits. Paid vacation, sick leave, and community‑service leave are provided. Eligible employees may also receive paid parental leave.

The State of North Carolina is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and is committed to providing an employment environment free from unlawful discrimination, harassment, or retaliation. The state provides reasonable accommodation to employees and applicants with disabilities, pregnancy‑related limitations, and religious beliefs.