VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION COUNSELOR
Date: Dec 8, 2025
Req ID: 54563
Location:
FORT SMITH, AR, US, 72901
Category: DEPT OF WORKFORCE SERVICES
Anticipated Starting Salary: $67,182.96
Applicants who do not meet the qualifications for the Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor will be reviewed against the qualifications for a Rehabilitation Coordinator, MED02 $53,558 Bachelor's Degree in Rehabilitation Science, Social Work, Healthcare Administration, Occupational Therapy, or a related field. Minimum of 2 years of experience in rehabilitation services, healthcare, or case management.
Position Summary
The Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor (VRC) will function as the Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor. The Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor will work under general supervision and is responsible for developing and administering Individualized Plans for Employment (IPEs) and providing counseling, training and/or placement services, and referral services for eligible individuals within state and federal law, departmental and divisional policies and procedures and administrative direction. The CVRC will also serve as a mentor to non-certified staff upon supervisory request. This position is governed by state and federal laws and agency policy.
This position requires on-site employment with no remote or hybrid options available.
Job Responsibilities and Expected Results
Works with the consumer to monitor progress toward job placement and job retention, contacting the consumer a minimum of every 90 days to ensure case progress.
Completes 20 new intake/applications each year and explains services, rights, and responsibilities, conducts assessments and coordinates services with other agencies/partners as appropriate. All referrals are moved to application status within 10 business days.
Determines eligibility for VR services in accordance with policy. All applications are determined eligible/ineligible within 60 days (minus eligibility extensions)
Provides counseling and guidance.
Documents case management activities by entering case narratives, medical and progress reports into the case management system accurately throughout the case.
Maintains confidentiality of records in accordance with agency policy and in compliance with the CRCC code of ethical standards.
Assists consumers to develop Individualized Plans for Employment (IPE) within 90 days from eligibility.
Always maintains an average caseload of 40 active cases with a minimum of 20 or 50% of active cases are successful rehabilitation closures during the evaluation period.
Develops 15 first IPEs for consumers entering Service Status
Plans and manages case service funds, prepares and submits proper documentation per status, authorizes services. Enters case notes into case management system within 3 days of the event and has no more than 10 authorizations outstanding over 90 days annually.
Completes agency reports, compiles with all applicable federal, state and agency policies and procedures, develops and maintains referral sources.
Maintains contact with the consumer at least once every 90 days and documents the case management system. Enters all required supporting documentation into case management system.
Demonstrates collaborative activities including but not limited to Workforce and Centers for Independent Living, and other community resources in order to maximize utilization of comparable benefits for VR consumers. Employees will perform other duties as assigned.
Conducts an annual plan review on all IPEs each year and documents in the case management system and conducts an annual review on all cases closed ineligible as required.
Documents measurable skill gains/credential attainment in cases receiving training services, where at least 75% of these cases achieve measurable skill gains/credential attainment
Documents income gains from application to closure, where at least 5 or 40% of successful closures achieve an income gain.
Completes applicable vocational and functional skills assessments; provides rehabilitation teaching to enhance the employment outcome; provides rehabilitation teaching instruction in activities of daily independent living, use of adaptive equipment and assistive technology, software and devices, arranges for purchase and delivery of instructional and/or adaptive aids and appliances; arranges for Low Vision assessments and trainings; provides basic instruction in Sighted Guide and Orientation to surroundings as needed.
Provides assistance in obtaining employment by providing counseling and guidance, evaluation of job sites and obtains and utilizes current labor market information.
Establishes and maintains rapport with the business community to facilitate job placement by conducting outreach to 2 employers per month and documents contacts also conducts 1 training to employers per quarter.
Participates in or conducts in-service training, represents agency on task forces, committees, and on local Workforce Boards as assigned; attends training sessions, including those designed to maintain certification; engages in public speaking activities.
Attends a minimum of 3 continuing education trainings per year
Perform other duties as assigned.
Position Information
Job Series:Medical - Rehabilitation
Classification:Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor
Class Code:MRE06P
Pay Grade:MED04
Salary Range:$67,183 - $99,431
Job Summary
The Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor assists individuals with disabilities, injuries, or health conditions in overcoming barriers to employment and achieving meaningful, sustainable careers. This role combines counseling, career planning, and case management to help clients enhance their employability, maximize their independence, and integrate into the workforce. The Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor works closely with clients, employers, and other professionals in an attempt to develop customized rehabilitation plans that address physical, mental, and emotional challenges while leveraging strengths and skills.
Primary Responsibilities
Conduct client assessments to identify abilities, interests, limitations, and employment goals. Develop, implement, and monitor individualized vocational rehabilitation plans. Provide career counseling, job placement assistance, and skills training tailored to clients' needs. Offer guidance on adaptive equipment, accommodations, and assistive technology in an attempt to enhance workplace accessibility. Collaborate with employers to promote inclusion and create opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Coordinate services with healthcare providers, social workers, and community organizations in an attempt to support clients holistically. Advocate for clients' rights and educate a variety of assorted personnel about disability awareness and workplace accommodations. Maintain detailed case records, prepare reports, and ensure compliance with regulations and ethical guidelines. Stay updated on labor market trends, vocational rehabilitation techniques, and industry best practices.
Knowledge and Skills
Strong interpersonal, communication, and counseling skills. Knowledge of employment laws, vocational rehabilitation strategies, and labor market dynamics. Proficiency in case management software and familiarity with assistive technologies. Empathy, patience, and the ability to build trust and rapport with varied clients.
Minimum Qualifications
Master's Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling, Psychology, Social Work, or a related field.
Minimum of 4 years of experience in rehabilitation counseling, career counseling, or a comparable role.
Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) may be required.
Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) may be required.
Additional certifications in disability advocacy or career development may be advantageous.
Satisfaction of the minimum qualifications, including years of experience and service, does not entitle employees to automatic progression within the job series. Promotion to the next classification level is at the discretion of the department and the Office of Personnel Management, taking into consideration the employee's demonstrated skills, competencies, performance, workload responsibilities, and organizational needs.
Licensure/Certifications
N/A OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.
Nearest Major Market:Fort Smith
