Vocational Counselor

Job Description

Position Title: Vocational Counselor

Department: Vocational Services

Reports to: Director of Vocational Services

Employment Status: Full Time

FSLA Status: Exempt

Salary: $45,000 - $50,000

The Vocational Services Program at Interfaith Works equips people transitioning out of homelessness and other low-income residents of Montgomery County to achieve economic self-sufficiency through meaningful employment, while meeting the needs of employers by providing qualified, dependable employees looking to build long‑term careers. We are seeking a bilingual (Spanish/English) Vocational Counselor to join our team.

The work we do changes people's lives. Getting a job can have a powerful ripple effect that starts with the individual and expands to their family, their community, contributes to the local economy, and can reduce dependence on social services. Our approach is based on always putting our clients first while simultaneously coaching them through a job search process that is disciplined, focused, and requires client engagement and accountability.

We believe in the work that we do and are seeking a qualified and dedicated candidate who wants to contribute to our mission.

• Leading vocational clients through a targeted job search process, including an intensive one‑on‑one counseling and coaching program, to build job search skills and confidence, and encourage accountability
• Preparing clients for marketplace jobs with a series of job readiness classes.
• Encouraging and motivating clients throughout the job search process.
• Assisting with the job application process, including preparing and practicing for interviews.
• Building relationships with area employers and developing specific job leads.
• Identifying free and low‑cost training or educational opportunities.
• Providing clients with ongoing support for employment retention success.
• Collaborating with case managers, therapists and other service providers to achieve optimal outcomes for all clients.

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience.
• Strong interpersonal, communication (verbal and written), and presentation skills.
• Valid driver's license and safe and reliable transportation.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Windows and Office
  365 (Word, Excel and Outlook), Zoom, and Teams.
• Effective organizational skills in documentation, service planning, and follow‑up.
• Fluency in Spanish is a plus.
• Comfortable using the database, Dynamics 365, to record clients' progress.
• A minimum of one‑year experience working with low‑income populations, or with individuals experiencing homelessness, is preferred.
• Experience in preparing effective resumes and cover letters is preferred.
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in a high‑functioning team; creative problem‑solving, and capacity to multitask and prioritize.
• Knowledge of supported employment programs for clients with co‑occurring disorders, mental illness or other lifelong disabilities is a plus.
• Knowledge of the DC Metropolitan Area labor market and familiarity with local industries and sectors is a plus.

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the functions. While performing the duties of this position, the employee is regularly required to talk or listen. The employee frequently is required to use hands or fingers, handle or feel objects, tools, or controls.

The employee is occasionally required to stand, walk, sit, and reach with hands and arms. The…