How to Be Vocational Evaluation and Job Placement Specialist/Rehabilitation Counselor - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Vocational Evaluation and Job Placement Specialists/Rehabilitation Counselors are professionals who help individuals with disabilities or special needs to find meaningful and suitable employment. They help clients develop job search skills, identify and access resources, create a job search plan, and create resumes and cover letters. They also conduct assessments to identify strengths and weaknesses, as well as assess aptitudes and interests that can be utilized in the job search.

The services of these professionals have a positive effect on their clients’ lives by increasing their self-esteem, providing an opportunity to use their skills and abilities, and helping them gain financial independence. their services to employers benefits them by providing qualified candidates who are capable of meeting their needs.

Steps How to Become

  1. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree. To become a vocational evaluation and job placement specialist or rehabilitation counselor, an individual must first earn a bachelor’s degree. Depending on the school, this degree can be in psychology, social work, rehabilitation counseling or a related field.
  2. Take the Necessary Courses and Complete an Internship. Many colleges and universities require students to take courses in areas such as human development, counseling, case management, and other related topics. In addition, they may be required to complete an internship in order to gain practical experience.
  3. Obtain Certification. Once the individual has earned their bachelor’s degree and completed the necessary courses, they must obtain certification from the Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification (CRCC). This certification is needed to practice as a vocational evaluation and job placement specialist or rehabilitation counselor.
  4. Participate in Continued Education and Training. Professionals in this field must participate in continued education and training in order to stay up to date on the latest techniques and advancements in the field.
  5. Obtain Licensure. Depending on the state, individuals may be required to obtain licensure to practice as a vocational evaluation and job placement specialist or rehabilitation counselor.
  6. Find Employment. Once they have obtained certification and licensure, they can begin looking for employment with job placement agencies, government agencies, healthcare organizations, or private practice.

Vocational Evaluation and Job Placement Specialists/Rehabilitation Counselors are essential to helping individuals who have experienced a disability or injury to find meaningful employment. These professionals help evaluate an individual’s skills, interests, and abilities, as well as their vocational goals. They then work to match the individual with an employer or job opportunity that best suits their needs.

This process helps to ensure that an individual is placed in a job that is both suitable for their skillset and allows them to reach their personal and professional goals. By providing individuals with the support they need to find suitable employment, Vocational Evaluation and Job Placement Specialists/Rehabilitation Counselors can help them achieve long-term success and independence.

You may want to check Rehabilitation Research Scientist, Senior Rehabilitation Consultant, and Rehabilitation Manager for alternative.

Job Description

  1. Vocational Evaluator: Develops, implements and evaluates individualized vocational evaluation plans to assess the employment and career goals of individuals. Determines the appropriate job training services and job placement services for clients.
  2. Job Placement Specialist: Identifies employers, develops job opportunities, and assists in the application process for clients. Provides guidance on resume and cover letter preparation, job search strategies, and interviewing techniques.
  3. Career Counselor: Assists clients with career exploration, job search, and transition services. Counsels clients on career options, educational requirements, job market trends, and financial aid resources.
  4. Job Coach: Assists clients with on-the-job training, job retention, and career advancement. Provides guidance to employers on accommodating the needs of clients and managing any related workplace issues.
  5. Disability Case Manager: Assesses and develops vocational rehabilitation plans for clients with disabilities. Facilitates referrals to medical or psychological treatment as needed, and helps to coordinate services with other agencies or organizations.
  6. Vocational Rehabilitation Specialist: Develops and implements individualized rehabilitation plans for clients with disabilities. Provides counseling on job-seeking skills, resume writing, interviewing techniques, and other topics related to successful employment.

Skills and Competencies to Have

  1. Knowledge of principles, techniques and methods of assessment and evaluation.
  2. Knowledge of job placement and employment trends.
  3. Ability to develop case plans and provide counseling services.
  4. Knowledge of the principles and practices of vocational rehabilitation and job placement.
  5. Ability to develop and implement job search strategies for clients.
  6. Ability to communicate effectively and maintain professional relationships with clients, employers, and other professionals.
  7. Knowledge of computer and software applications related to job placement, assessment and evaluation.
  8. Ability to work with individuals from diverse backgrounds and ability levels.
  9. Knowledge of legal, ethical, and compliance standards related to vocational rehabilitation and job placement.
  10. Ability to organize, prioritize, and manage multiple tasks and assignments.

The role of a Vocational Evaluation and Job Placement Specialist/Rehabilitation Counselor is an important one, as they provide vital services to individuals with disabilities or other barriers to employment. The most important skill for these professionals to possess is excellent communication and interpersonal skills. This allows them to effectively assess a client’s abilities, needs and goals, and then develop an individualized plan to help them find and maintain meaningful employment.

They must also be able to listen actively, build rapport, and offer guidance and support to their clients as they work toward their goals. In addition, they need to have a strong understanding of the labor market and the ability to research job opportunities, as well as knowledge of the various resources available to help individuals with disabilities or other barriers to employment. Lastly, they must have good organizational skills in order to effectively manage their caseloads and stay abreast of changes in the job market.

Having these skills increases the likelihood of successful job placement for the clients they serve, which can benefit both the client and their employer in the long-term.

Adaptive Physical Education Teacher/Rehabilitation Therapist, Rehabilitation Consultant, and Certified Rehabilitation Counselor are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

  • What experience do you have in vocational evaluation?
  • How do you approach job placement for rehabilitation clients?
  • What methods do you use to assess a client’s abilities, interests, and values?
  • Describe your experience in developing job-seeking skills with clients.
  • How do you collaborate with other professionals in the process of job placements?
  • What strategies do you use to help clients integrate into their new job roles?
  • What challenges have you faced in vocational evaluation and job placement?
  • How would you handle a client who is not open to exploring different job options?
  • How do you stay up-to-date on current job market trends?
  • Describe your experience advocating for clients in the job placement process.

Common Tools in Industry

  1. Comprehensive Workplace Evaluations. Comprehensive workplace evaluations assess an individual’s current skills, knowledge, and abilities in order to develop a plan for job placement. They can include assessments of physical abilities, mental health, and aptitude testing. (e. g. conducting a work simulation to measure a client's job-specific skills)
  2. Career Advancement Services. Career advancement services help individuals identify and pursue career paths that fit their interests, values, and skills. This may involve resume writing workshops, job search strategies, and training in interviewing techniques. (e. g. helping a client develop a portfolio of their skills and experiences to showcase to potential employers)
  3. Job Readiness Training. Job readiness training helps individuals prepare for various aspects of the job search process, such as writing cover letters, networking with employers, and developing effective communication strategies. (e. g. teaching a client how to complete job applications and write resumes)
  4. Employment Support Services. Employment support services provide assistance in identifying job opportunities, creating a job search strategy, and providing on-the-job support. This includes job search assistance, job placement services, and post-employment counseling. (e. g. providing resources on internships or apprenticeships to a client)
  5. Job Coaching. Job coaching provides individualized guidance and advice to help individuals learn the necessary skills to become successful in the workplace. This may involve teaching problem-solving strategies, providing feedback on job performance, and helping individuals set and reach their goals. (e. g. guiding a client through the onboarding process at a new job)

Professional Organizations to Know

  1. American Rehabilitation Counseling Association (ARCA)
  2. Association of Rehabilitation Professionals in the Private Sector (ARPS)
  3. American Association of Vocational Evaluation and Work Adjustment (AAVEWA)
  4. National Association of Rehabilitation Professionals in the Private Sector (NARPS)
  5. National Rehabilitation Association (NRA)
  6. National Council on Rehabilitation Education (NCRE)
  7. International Association of Rehabilitation Professionals (IARP)
  8. Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification (CRCC)
  9. National Employment Counseling Association (NECA)
  10. Association of Rehabilitation Nurses (ARN)

We also have Senior Rehabilitation Coordinator, Rehabilitation Coordinator, and Rehabilitation Supervisor jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

  1. Vocational Assessment. An assessment designed to determine an individual's vocational interests, aptitudes, and abilities in order to identify suitable career options.
  2. Job Placement. The process of finding suitable employment for someone. This includes researching job openings, matching applicants to positions, and helping the applicant complete the job application process.
  3. Rehabilitation Counseling. A counseling process aimed at helping individuals with physical, mental, or emotional disabilities to live independent, productive, and satisfying lives.
  4. Career Counseling. Guidance and advice offered to individuals in order to help them make decisions regarding their careers. This includes exploring educational options, job opportunities, and other career-related topics.
  5. Job Coaching. The process of assisting an individual with obtaining and successfully maintaining employment. This includes helping the individual understand job expectations, develop appropriate job skills, and overcome obstacles that may impede job success.
  6. Employment Services. Services designed to help individuals find suitable employment. This includes job search assistance, resume writing, interviewing skills, and job counseling.
  7. Job Readiness Training. A program designed to prepare individuals for the workforce by teaching them the skills and knowledge necessary to be successful in a job.
  8. Labor Market Analysis. An analysis of the labor market that includes information such as job availability, wages, and skill requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Vocational Evaluation?

Vocational evaluation is a process used to assess an individual's work-related abilities, interests, values, and personality traits. It is used to help individuals find suitable employment in the labor market and to identify career goals.

What are the duties of a Job Placement Specialist/Rehabilitation Counselor?

Job Placement Specialists/Rehabilitation Counselors assist individuals with disabilities in finding jobs that match their skills and abilities. They provide counseling and guidance to help individuals develop job search strategies, improve their resumes, and prepare for interviews. Additionally, they may provide job coaching and job retention services to ensure successful placement.

What qualifications are needed to become a Job Placement Specialist/Rehabilitation Counselor?

To become a Job Placement Specialist/Rehabilitation Counselor, individuals must possess a master's degree in rehabilitation counseling or a related field such as psychology, social work, special education, or counseling. Additionally, they must possess certifications or licensure from the Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification or the National Board for Certified Counselors.

What type of salary can a Job Placement Specialist/Rehabilitation Counselor expect to earn?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics in 2020, the median annual wage for Job Placement Specialists/Rehabilitation Counselors was $38,965. Salaries can vary depending on experience and location.

How does Vocational Evaluation help individuals with disabilities?

Vocational Evaluation helps individuals with disabilities understand their aptitudes, interests, and skills in order to identify suitable employment opportunities. It also helps them understand how their disabilities may affect their employment options, providing them with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions about their career goals.

Web Resources

Author Photo
Reviewed & Published by Albert
Submitted by our contributor
Rehabilitation Category