Transition Rehab Counselor (DVR #10320)

Posting Details

The New Mexico Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (NMDVR) is a state-run agency dedicated to assisting individuals with disabilities in achieving employment success. Through services such as vocational counseling, job placement assistance, training and education, assistive technology, and support services, NMDVR aims to enhance the employability and independence of people with various disabilities. Tailoring its programs to meet individual needs, the agency is committed to facilitating competitive employment and fostering independence among its clientele.

This position requires the ability to obtain a current and unexpired New Mexico Rehabilitation Counselor Licensure at the time of hire. If you are not currently licensed through the New Mexico Public Education Department (PED), you must work toward and obtain a level 1 license in rehabilitation counseling within one (1) year of hire. All selected applicants must be able to pass a Public Education Department background check.

This posting will be used for ongoing recruitment and may close at any time. Applicant lists may be screened more than once.

Why does the job exist?

Job exists to collaborate with assigned school districts to work toward the goals and objectives of the NMDVR Pre-Employment Transition Services. The primary responsibility is to deliver Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) to students with disabilities in their assigned area.  Pre-ETS include:
o Instruction in Self-Advocacy
o Job exploration counseling
o Post-secondary education/training counseling
o Workforce readiness training
o Work-based learning experiences
o IEP attendance

How does it get done?

The Transition Counselor will facilitate the transition of students from school to community by implementing the person-centered planning process in support of students¿ job and adult placement. Under the supervision of the, NMDVR Program Manager, the Transition Counselor will coordinate transition activities within a team comprised of the student, parent/guardian, educators, and service providers, to ensure that transition activities and services are address and implemented for each eligible student. The Transition Counselor will be responsible for developing and teaching lesson plans related to independent Pre-employment transition skills. The position will require staff to counsel students in a variety of subjects including study skills and organization, self- advocacy, problem solving, conflict resolution, transportation, money management, budge making, customer service skills, income and taxes, writing cover letters, developing resumes, mastering job interviews, etc. The Transition Counselor will assist other program staff in designing the program goals and objectives related to independent living and employment readiness skills. This includes implementation of assessments and intervention programs. The transition counselor will observe students during internships and report progress back to program behavior specialist and program director as needed. The Transition Counselor will work closely with Local Educational staff, specifically the special education director and transition.

Who are the customers?

People with disabilities, New Mexico Department of Vocational Rehabilitation (NMDVR) Staff, Partner Agencies, and the General Public.

Ideal Candidate

The Ideal candidate will possess the following:
* Master's in Vocational Rehabilitation or Education
* Ability to obtain Professional Education License endorsement in one of the following areas:
* K-12 Rehabilitation Licensure Level one, two, or three
* At least two years of experience within a youth program emphasizing transitioning from school to work

Minimum Qualification

Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Vocational Rehabilitation, Sociology, Psychology, Guidance and Counseling, Social Work, Special Education, or related degree as referenced by NMAC.

Employment Requirements

This position requires the ability to obtain a current and unexpired New Mexico Rehabilitation Counselor License at the time of hire. If you are not currently licensed through the New Mexico Public Education Department (PED), you must work toward and obtain a level 1 license in rehabilitation counseling within one (1) year of hire. All selected applicants must be able to pass a Public Education Department background check.

Travel is required.

Working Conditions

Office setting & school setting with exposure to visual/video display terminal (VDT), extensive computer and telephone usage. Extended periods of sitting with lifting of 20 pounds or less. Daily travel in a state issued vehicle required to reach destinations in and around the assigned area. Exposure to loud noise in and around schools.

Supplemental Information

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Agency Contact Information: Jennifer Saavedra (505) 525-1629 Email

For information on Statutory Requirements for this position, click the Classification Description link on the job advertisement.

The NMDVR is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants selected for an interview must notify the NMDVR of the need for a reasonable accommodation by informing the agency contact listed in the job posting.

Bargaining Unit Position

This position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement and all terms/conditions of that agreement apply and must be adhered to.

Salary : $55,273 - $82,909