Rehabilitation Counselor - Deafblind - Rehabilitation Counselor Senior or Career

Overview

State Services for the Blind (SSB) is seeking a Rehabilitation Counselor to deliver individualized Vocational Rehabilitation services to Deaf Blind individuals aged 14 and older. The role focuses on identifying vocational goals, coordinating assessments, developing Individualized Plans for Employment (IPEs), and supporting successful competitive employment outcomes. The position is based in St. Paul, requires travel up to 50% of the time, and is telework eligible.

Provide one‑to‑one counseling for Deaf Blind and low‑vision customers, develop and manage caseloads, coordinate assessments and services, maintain IPEs, and collaborate with employers, schools, service providers, and community partners to advance employment goals. Attend local and regional meetings, training sessions, and client appointments. Travel may be required for community outreach and monthly trainings.

• Master’s Degree in Vocational Rehabilitation Counseling, Blind Rehabilitation Teaching, Social Work, Psychology, Education, Special Education, School Counseling, or other closely related field.
• Three (3) years of related experience providing employment counseling for individuals with Deaf Blindness (or combined hearing and vision loss) and Blindness or Vision Loss, demonstrating knowledge of one‑to‑one counseling, caseload management, rehabilitation planning, job placement, and employment supports.
• Signing skills sufficient to communicate effectively with Deaf Blind, Low Vision, or Blind individuals.
• Experience working with Deaf Blind, Low Vision, or Blind populations.
• Caseload management experience in a rehabilitation, education, or human services setting.
• Valid driver’s license and insurance or reliable transportation.

• At least one year of experience directly with the Deaf Blind population (youth or adults aged 14+).
• Experience working within Deaf Blind communities and using Deaf Blind communication and learning styles.
• Knowledge of Deaf Blind‑related assistive technology, mobility solutions, and adaptive equipment.
• Experience coordinating services across multiple agencies or providers.
• Demonstrated cultural responsiveness and effective interaction with diverse backgrounds and cultures.

• Background check including criminal history, employment records, reference check, conflict of interest review, and driver’s license and records check.
• No sponsorship of work visas; applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.
• Completion of an Adjustment to Blindness (ATB) immersion training program (up to 6–7 weeks).

Comprehensive benefits including health, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans; paid vacation, sick leave, and 12 paid holidays; low‑cost medical coverage; and a pension plan beginning after three years of service. Additional benefits include paid parental leave, life insurance, short‑term and long‑term disability coverage, tax‑free expense accounts, and wellness resources.

• Paid vacation and sick leave
• 12 paid holidays each year
• Low‑cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans
  • Fertility care, including IVF
  • Diabetes care
  • Dental and orthodontic care for adults and children
• 6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted children
• Pension plan that provides income after retirement
• Employer‑paid life insurance
• Short‑term and long‑term disability insurance
• Tax‑free expense accounts
• Well‑being support resources

Minnesota state agencies are equal‑opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran‑friendly employers, committed to a workforce that reflects the diversity of the state. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity, marital status, age, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, or other protected characteristics.