Vocational Rehab Counselor II

Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor II (Open)

The Nebraska Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired works to help blind and visually impaired Nebraskans achieve full and rewarding lives through independent living skills and assisting with finding employment in Nebraska and across the country. As a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor II, you will serve Nebraska providing services to blind and visually impaired Nebraskans of all ages. Tasks performed vary greatly and are based on the needs of the individual client, families, guardians or consulting agency.

Examples may include blindness skills training, job skills training, or assisting with securing or retaining employment. Successful candidates for employment must be able to satisfactorily pass an extensive criminal background check. Field assignments consist of travel within the assigned work region (Lincoln District including the Norfolk area).

• 13 paid holidays

• Vacation and sick leave that begin accruing immediately

• Military leave

• 156% (that's not a typo!) state-matched retirement

• Tuition reimbursement

• Employee assistance program

• 79% employer paid health insurance plans

• Dental and vision insurance plans

• Employer-paid $20,000 life insurance policy

• Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF) through the Federal government

• Wide variety and availability of career advancement as the largest and most diverse employer in the State

• Opportunity to be part of meaningful work and make a difference through public service

• Training and Development based on your career aspirations

• Fun, inviting teammates

• A safe and secure environment

At the State, we stand by our core values of treating others with dignity and respect, acting ethically in all situations, and creating an environment where our customer is our top priority. Apply to join our team today!

* Describe the availability of services to new referrals and gather information as needed to complete applications for services.

* Refer blind consumers to services offered by other agencies or organizations as appropriate.

* Determine eligibility for services based on the applicant's unique strengths, resources, priorities, concerns, abilities, capabilities, interests, and informed choice.

* Gather medical information as needed for documentation of blindness or visual impairment.

* Develop an individualized plan for employment in conjunction with consumers designed to empower blind individuals to maximize employment, economic self-sufficiency, independence, and full participation in society.

* Develop an individualized plan for independent living in conjunction with consumers with independent living rather than vocational goals designed to maximize their ability to participate fully in their home communities.

* Counsel clients in their overall adjustment to blindness with particular emphasis on achieving a positive understanding of blindness based on the belief that blind people are capable of full participation in society using the alternative skills of blindness.

* Promote opportunities for blind consumers to network with and learn from positive blind role models.

* Coordinate training in the alternative skills of blindness provided by orientation counselors in the field or at the Training Center for the Blind.

* Coordinate vocational training or other services as needed in preparation for job placement or achievement of independent living goals.

* Provide career exploration, job readiness training, and job placement services

* Assist with special programs designed to provide concentrated training and socialization opportunities for blind consumers in a small group setting.

* Provide follow-up services for clients in all aspects of vocational adjustment including working with family members.

* Monitor progress towards the achievement of personal goals specified in individual service plans and maintain documentation of all activities and services provided in case service records in compliance with federal and state regulations.

* Collaborate with public and private schools, institutions of higher education, health care providers, human service agencies, consumer groups and…