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- Tasks: Assist individuals with disabilities in achieving employment and independence through case management.
- Company: Join the Illinois Department of Human Services, dedicated to serving families and promoting equity.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive insurance, flexible schedules, paid leave, and tuition reimbursement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while gaining valuable training and experience in rehabilitation counseling.
- Qualifications: Master's degree in relevant fields and advanced sign language skills required.
- Other info: This is a union position with a supportive work culture focused on diversity and inclusion.
The predicted salary is between 47400 - 74000 £ per year.
Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor Trainee
Recruitment began on July 16, 2025
and the job listing Expires on July 26, 2025
Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor Trainee – # 45949
Agency: Department of Human Services
Location: Chicago Heights, IL 60411
Job Requisition ID: 45949
Opening Date: 07/14/2025
Closing Date: 07/25/2025
Salary: Anticipated Salary $4,952-$6,952/month ($59,424-$83,424/year) + bilingual pay
Job Type: Salaried Full Time
County: Cook
Number of Vacancies: 1
Plan/BU: RC062
***MUST APPLY ONLINE ***
This position is a union position; therefore, provisions of the relevant collective bargaining agreement/labor contract apply to the filling of this position. While not required, a Resume/Curriculum Vitae (CV) is recommended. When applicable, titles that require specific coursework, professional license or certification will include a notation requesting the appropriate document(s) be uploaded in the Additional Documents section of your application. Failure to upload requested transcripts, license and/or proof of certification when specified may result in ineligibility. Please note that the Department of Human Services must verify proof of higher education for any degree earned (if applicable) regardless of vacancy title before any offer can be extended. Applications submitted via email or any paper manner (mail, fax, hand delivery) will not be considered.
Posting Identification Number 45949
Position Overview
The Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) is the state’s lead division serving people with disabilities committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, accessibility, and racial justice. The mission of the Division is to assist individuals with disabilities in achieving their goals of employment, education, and independent living. This position coordinates customer case records and documents in a field office pertaining to the service delivery activities to customers in the Bureau of Customer and Community Field Services/Vocational Rehabilitation Program The Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor Trainee position will receive formal and informal training not to exceed twelve (12) months to learn the rules, regulations, and policies of the Vocational Rehabilitation Program to ultimately manage a caseload providing services to individuals with disabilities to gain competitive integrated employment. This position requires the use of manual communication skills in working with individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing and/or Deafblind. The Division of Rehabilitation Services is seeking to hire a self-motivated and detail-oriented individual with good communication skills.
Essential Functions
- Serves as a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor Trainee for a period not to exceed twelve (12) months, receives formal and informal orientation in the principles, techniques, procedures, and policies related to rehabilitating persons with disabilities in a general vocational rehabilitation, transition, Secondary Transition Experience Program (STEP), or specialty caseload.
- Studies and becomes proficient in utilizing the Division’s case management system.
- Travels to attend and participate in staff meetings, conferences, workshops, and in-service training related to the discipline of rehabilitation counseling.
- Performs other duties as assigned or required which are reasonably within the scope of the duties enumerated above.
Minimum Qualifications
- Requires possession of a Master’s Degree from a college or university program accredited by the Council On Rehabilitation Education (CORE) or a Master’s Degree from an accredited college or university in rehabilitation counseling, rehabilitation administration, clinical psychology, counseling psychology, deaf education, special education, or a closely related field.
- Requires the ability to pass the sign language assessment at the advanced level.
*Qualifying state employees, in the employee Upward Mobility Program, may complete combinations of specific proficiency tests and training programs leading to a certificate of proficiency in lieu of the stated requirements for this class.
Conditions of Employment
- Requires ability to travel.
*All conditions of employment listed are incorporated and related to any of the job duties as listed in the job description.
Work Hours: Mon-Fri, 8:30am-5pm, 1 hour unpaid lunch.
Work Location: Chicago Heights – 1010 Dixie Hwy
Division of Rehabilitation
Bureau of Customer and Community Field Services
The Illinois Department of Human Services serves families in need all across Illinois. Our mission is providing equitable access to social services, supports, programs and resources to enhance the lives of all who we serve. We are committed to the core values of Human Dignity, Equity, Community, Urgency, Transparency and Kindness.
As a State of Illinois Employee, you will receive a robust benefit package that includes the following:
Competitive Group Insurance Benefits including Health, Life, Dental and Vision Insurance
3 Paid Personal Business Days annually
12 Paid Sick Days annually (Sick days carry over from year to year)
10-25 Days of Paid Vacation time annually – (10 days in year one of employment)
*Personal, Sick, & Vacation rates modified for 12-hour Work Schedules (as applicable)
13 Paid Holidays annually, 14 on even numbered years
Flexible Work Schedules (when available dependent upon position)
10 Weeks Paid Maternity/Paternity Leave
Deferred Compensation Program – A supplemental retirement plan
Optional Pre-Tax Programs such as Medical Care Assistance Plan (MCAP), Dependent Care Assistance Plan (DCAP)
Tuition Reimbursement Program and Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program eligibility
5% Salary Differential for Bilingual Positions
Commuter Savings Program (Chicago only)
For more information about our benefits please follow this link: https://www2.illinois.gov/cms/benefits/Pages/default.aspx
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS
Must apply online.
The main form of communication will be through email. Please check your “junk mail”, “spam”, or “other” folder for communication(s) regarding any submitted application(s). You may receive emails from the following addresses:
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor Trainee employer: Nichols College
Contact Detail:
Nichols College Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor Trainee
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the Division of Rehabilitation Services' mission and values. Understanding their commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility will help you align your responses during interviews and demonstrate your passion for the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former Vocational Rehabilitation Counselors. They can provide insights into the day-to-day responsibilities and challenges of the role, which can be invaluable when preparing for interviews or discussions.
✨Tip Number 3
Brush up on your sign language skills, especially if you are not already proficient. Since the role requires communication with individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, showcasing your ability in this area can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on current trends and best practices in vocational rehabilitation. Being knowledgeable about recent developments in the field can help you engage in meaningful conversations during interviews and show your commitment to professional growth.
We think you need these skills to ace Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor Trainee
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor Trainee position. Familiarise yourself with the essential functions and qualifications listed in the job description.
Tailor Your CV: Craft your CV to highlight relevant experience and skills that align with the job requirements. Emphasise any coursework or experience related to rehabilitation counseling, as well as your communication skills, especially if you have experience with individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing.
Prepare Additional Documents: Gather all necessary documents, including your Master's Degree proof, transcripts, and any certifications. If applicable, ensure you have evidence of passing the sign language assessment at the advanced level, as this is a requirement for the role.
Follow Application Instructions: Make sure to apply online through the specified platform. Double-check that you upload all required documents and that your application is complete before submission. Remember, applications submitted via email or paper will not be considered.
How to prepare for a job interview at Nichols College
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor Trainee. Familiarise yourself with the Division of Rehabilitation Services' mission and how it aligns with your values, especially regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since this role requires manual communication skills, be prepared to demonstrate your proficiency in sign language during the interview. Practice explaining your experiences and qualifications clearly and confidently.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities and how you would handle specific situations involving individuals with disabilities. Think of examples from your past experiences that highlight your skills in rehabilitation counseling.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the training process, team dynamics, and the types of cases you might handle. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you gauge if the role is the right fit for you.
