What are the responsibilities and job description for the Deaf/Hard of Hearing (DHH) Intern - Student Worker Paraprofessional Senior position at Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development?
Working Title: Deaf/Hard of Hearing (DHH) Intern
Job Class: Student Worker Paraprofessional Senior
Agency: Department of Employment and Economic Development
At the State of Minnesota, employees play a critical role in developing policies, providing essential services, and working to improve the well-being and quality of life for all Minnesotans. The State of Minnesota is committed to equity and inclusion, and invests in employees by providing benefits, support resources, and training and development opportunities.
This is a temporary internship opportunity for graduate-level students enrolled in programs that meet Vocational Rehabilitation Services (VRS) requirements for potential Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor roles.
The Student Worker will support the mission of the Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) by empowering Minnesotans with disabilities to achieve competitive, integrated employment, independent living, and community inclusion. Under the supervision of assigned Intern Supervisor(s), the intern will gain hands-on experience by performing duties aligned with those of a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor, including 240 hours of direct participant contact.
Interns will be introduced to agency procedures, observe and shadow professionals, and engage in meaningful casework activities. It is the intern’s responsibility to document and fulfill all graduation requirements.
Key Responsibilities
The position requires weekly local travel.
This position is telework eligible. Staff are provided with the tools and equipment to be successful in a virtual work environment. Please note, the telework policy could change with notice based on business needs.
Minimum Qualifications
Please ensure that your resume clearly describes your experience in the areas listed and indicates the beginning and ending month and year for each job held. Only applicants whose resumes clearly demonstrate fulfillment of each of these minimum qualifications will be considered for this position.
To be eligible for an appointment as a Student Worker Para Professional Senior, you must be enrolled in a post-secondary or graduate program and have completed at least two (2) years of post-secondary education. Students may be “off” for the summer or for one (1) semester/quarter and remain employed as a student worker, but such absences cannot exceed one (1) semester/quarter in a year. If you are enrolled at a credit-granting institution, you must carry at least six (6) semester/ nine (9) quarter credits. If you are enrolled at a non-credit granting institution or one (1) that only offers one (1) credit per class, you must be taking two (2) or more classes per semester/quarter. Any lesser credit (class) load will be treated as a semester/quarter off. Graduate students must be enrolled in at least two (2) courses or making progress on a dissertation. You will be asked to complete an Educational Verification form prior to appointment.
Applicants that meet the above minimum qualification will be further evaluated on the following:
Experience in:
Preferred Qualifications
Additional Requirements
A job offer will be contingent upon successfully passing a background check. The background check may consist of the following components:
How To Apply
Select “Apply for Job” at the top of this page. If you have questions about applying for jobs, contact the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us. For additional information about the application process, go to http://www.mn.gov/careers.
Veterans
To be considered with Veteran's Status, you MUST indicate this on your application and submit a copy of your DD-214 form and other required documentation to talent.acquisition.deed@state.mn.us by the closing date.
Recently Separated Veterans (RSV): Effective July 1, 2009, legislation provides that the top five RSV applicants who apply and meet the qualifications for a vacancy shall be granted an interview.
Certain Disabled Veterans: Effective August 1, 2012, legislation provides state agencies with the option to appoint certain disabled veterans on a non-competitive basis.
See the above links for criteria and eligibility.
Current State Employees
If you have questions about this position, contact Allex Roberge at allex.roberge@state.mn.us
Working together to improve the state we love.
What do Minnesota's State employees have in common?
As an employee, you'll have access to one of the most affordable health insurance plans in Minnesota, along with other benefits to help you and your family be well.
Your benefits may include:
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYERS
Minnesota state agencies are equal opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran-friendly employers. State agencies are committed to creating a workforce that reflects the diversity of the state and strongly encourages persons of color and Indigenous communities, members of the LGBTQIA2S community, individuals with disabilities, women, and veterans to apply. The varied experiences and perspectives of employees strengthen the work we do together and our ability to best serve Minnesotans.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and disabilities related to pregnancy or childbirth), gender identity, gender expression, marital status, familial status, age, sexual orientation, status regarding public assistance, disability, veteran status or activity in a local Human Rights Commission or any other characteristic protected by law.
Applicants With Disabilities
Minnesota state agencies make reasonable accommodations to their employees and applicants with disabilities. If you have a disability and need assistance in searching or applying for jobs with the State of Minnesota, call the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us and let us know the support you need.
The Department of Employment and Economic Development is an equal opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran-friendly employer, and encourages all qualified candidates to apply for job opportunities. If you are an individual with a disability who needs assistance or cannot access the online job application and search tools, please contact Karen Lilledahl at Karen.Lilledahl@state.mn.us. Please indicate what assistance is needed.
Job Class: Student Worker Paraprofessional Senior
Agency: Department of Employment and Economic Development
- Job ID: 88892
- Location: Minneapolis
- Telework Eligible: Yes, may be eligible for some telework
- Full/Part Time: Full-Time
- Regular/Temporary: Limited
- Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers
- Date Posted: 09/23/2025
- Closing Date: 09/29/2025
- Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Department of Employment and Economic Development - AFSCME
- Division/Unit: Vocational Rehabilitation Services
- Work Shift/Work Hours: Day Shift, 8:00AM - 4:30PM
- Days of Work: Monday - Friday
- Travel Required: Yes, up to 50% of the time
- Salary Range: $19.85 - $23.61 / hourly; $41,446 - $49,297 / annually
- Classified Status: Unclassified
- Bargaining Unit/Union: 207 - Technical/AFSCME
- Work Area: Vocational Rehabilitation Services (VRS) - Minneapolis
- End Date: Up to 600 hours
- FLSA Status: Nonexempt
- Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities: No
At the State of Minnesota, employees play a critical role in developing policies, providing essential services, and working to improve the well-being and quality of life for all Minnesotans. The State of Minnesota is committed to equity and inclusion, and invests in employees by providing benefits, support resources, and training and development opportunities.
This is a temporary internship opportunity for graduate-level students enrolled in programs that meet Vocational Rehabilitation Services (VRS) requirements for potential Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor roles.
The Student Worker will support the mission of the Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) by empowering Minnesotans with disabilities to achieve competitive, integrated employment, independent living, and community inclusion. Under the supervision of assigned Intern Supervisor(s), the intern will gain hands-on experience by performing duties aligned with those of a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor, including 240 hours of direct participant contact.
Interns will be introduced to agency procedures, observe and shadow professionals, and engage in meaningful casework activities. It is the intern’s responsibility to document and fulfill all graduation requirements.
Key Responsibilities
- Program Orientation & Intake: Provide orientation to applicants and conduct preliminary diagnostic interviews to support informed decisions about applying for services.
- Case Management Support: Assist with managing a caseload under the guidance of a VR Counselor or manager.
- Assessment & Planning: Help ensure vocational assessments meet standards and contribute to developing employment goals aligned with individual strengths and interests.
- Employment Plan Development: Support the creation of Individual Employment Plans (IEPs), subject to counselor or Rehabilitation Area Manager (RAM) approval.
- Youth Transition Services: Identify and support pre-employment transition services for youth pursuing individualized employment goals.
The position requires weekly local travel.
This position is telework eligible. Staff are provided with the tools and equipment to be successful in a virtual work environment. Please note, the telework policy could change with notice based on business needs.
Minimum Qualifications
Please ensure that your resume clearly describes your experience in the areas listed and indicates the beginning and ending month and year for each job held. Only applicants whose resumes clearly demonstrate fulfillment of each of these minimum qualifications will be considered for this position.
To be eligible for an appointment as a Student Worker Para Professional Senior, you must be enrolled in a post-secondary or graduate program and have completed at least two (2) years of post-secondary education. Students may be “off” for the summer or for one (1) semester/quarter and remain employed as a student worker, but such absences cannot exceed one (1) semester/quarter in a year. If you are enrolled at a credit-granting institution, you must carry at least six (6) semester/ nine (9) quarter credits. If you are enrolled at a non-credit granting institution or one (1) that only offers one (1) credit per class, you must be taking two (2) or more classes per semester/quarter. Any lesser credit (class) load will be treated as a semester/quarter off. Graduate students must be enrolled in at least two (2) courses or making progress on a dissertation. You will be asked to complete an Educational Verification form prior to appointment.
Applicants that meet the above minimum qualification will be further evaluated on the following:
Experience in:
- Conducting interviews and assessments with individuals who are Deaf/Hard of Hearing (DHH), using American Sign Language (ASL) and other appropriate communication modes.
- Applying professional judgment to identify supports, accommodations, and assistive technology that reduce vocational barriers and promote employment success.
- Applying Principles and practices of vocational rehabilitation counseling and case management, including service planning and employment goal development for individuals with disabilities.
- Communication methods, cultural considerations, and community resources specific to individuals who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing.
- Analyzing vocational assessment information in the context of communication barriers, hearing loss, and accessibility needs to support informed employment planning.
- Collaborating effectively in a multidisciplinary team environment, fostering positive relationships with clients, interpreters, employers, and service providers.
Preferred Qualifications
- Knowledge of assistive technology and accommodations commonly used by individuals who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing in educational or workplace settings.
- Skill in using electronic case management systems (e.g., Workforce One or similar platforms) for documentation, service tracking, and reporting.
- Ability to engage in outreach and partnership activities with schools, employers, or community organizations to promote vocational rehabilitation services.
- Experience supporting individuals from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, particularly within the DHH community.
- Ability to interpret labor market information and employment trends to inform vocational planning and job placement strategies.
Additional Requirements
A job offer will be contingent upon successfully passing a background check. The background check may consist of the following components:
- Criminal Background Check
- Employment Records Check (current and former State employees only)
- Employment Reference Check
- Conflict of Interest Review
- Driver’s License and Records Check
How To Apply
Select “Apply for Job” at the top of this page. If you have questions about applying for jobs, contact the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us. For additional information about the application process, go to http://www.mn.gov/careers.
Veterans
To be considered with Veteran's Status, you MUST indicate this on your application and submit a copy of your DD-214 form and other required documentation to talent.acquisition.deed@state.mn.us by the closing date.
Recently Separated Veterans (RSV): Effective July 1, 2009, legislation provides that the top five RSV applicants who apply and meet the qualifications for a vacancy shall be granted an interview.
Certain Disabled Veterans: Effective August 1, 2012, legislation provides state agencies with the option to appoint certain disabled veterans on a non-competitive basis.
See the above links for criteria and eligibility.
Current State Employees
- Please apply via Self Service.
- If eligible for bidding or expression of interest: This vacancy will be open for bids/expression of interest and all qualified applicants simultaneously. Current employees of DEED who are currently in the same classification, who are eligible, and apply within the seven (7) day period will be considered prior to filling the position by other means.
If you have questions about this position, contact Allex Roberge at allex.roberge@state.mn.us
Working together to improve the state we love.
What do Minnesota's State employees have in common?
- A sense of purpose in their work
- Connection with their coworkers and communities
- Opportunities for personal and professional growth
As an employee, you'll have access to one of the most affordable health insurance plans in Minnesota, along with other benefits to help you and your family be well.
Your benefits may include:
- 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 when you retire (after working at least three years)
- Employer paid life insurance to provide support for your family in the event of death
- Short-term and long-term disability insurance that can provide income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury
- Tax-free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care
- Resources that provide support and promote physical, emotional, social, and financial well-being
- Training, classes, and professional development
- Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. For more information, visit the Federal Student Aid website at studentaid.gov)
- A voluntary confidential program that helps employees and their families with life challenges that may impact overall health, personal well-being, or job performance
- Common sources of stress can be addressed through the EAP: mental health, relationship challenges (personal and work), grief and loss, finances, and legal issues
- Daily Living/Convenience Services: Chore services, home repair, trip planning, child/elder care
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYERS
Minnesota state agencies are equal opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran-friendly employers. State agencies are committed to creating a workforce that reflects the diversity of the state and strongly encourages persons of color and Indigenous communities, members of the LGBTQIA2S community, individuals with disabilities, women, and veterans to apply. The varied experiences and perspectives of employees strengthen the work we do together and our ability to best serve Minnesotans.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and disabilities related to pregnancy or childbirth), gender identity, gender expression, marital status, familial status, age, sexual orientation, status regarding public assistance, disability, veteran status or activity in a local Human Rights Commission or any other characteristic protected by law.
Applicants With Disabilities
Minnesota state agencies make reasonable accommodations to their employees and applicants with disabilities. If you have a disability and need assistance in searching or applying for jobs with the State of Minnesota, call the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us and let us know the support you need.
The Department of Employment and Economic Development is an equal opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran-friendly employer, and encourages all qualified candidates to apply for job opportunities. If you are an individual with a disability who needs assistance or cannot access the online job application and search tools, please contact Karen Lilledahl at Karen.Lilledahl@state.mn.us. Please indicate what assistance is needed.
Salary : $41,446 - $49,297