Rehabilitation Counselor

Description:

The South Dakota Department of Human Services – Division of Service to the Blind and Visually Impaired (SBVI) is seeking a Rehabilitation Counselor (or Senior Rehabilitation Counselor for qualified candidates) to provide essential vocational rehabilitation and independent living services to individuals who are blind or visually impaired.

This role is central to SBVI’s mission of promoting independence, inclusion, and employment opportunities for people with vision loss. Counselors play a pivotal role in helping individuals achieve meaningful careers while also supporting their daily living and confidence-building skills in community settings.

Key Responsibilities:

• Meet with clients to explain programs, assess needs, and guide them through the application process.

• Review medical, educational, and psychological records to make eligibility determinations.

• Provide counseling and vocational guidance, helping clients define and achieve employment and independent living goals.

• Deliver independent living teaching services in homes and communities, enabling clients to build essential daily living skills.

• Authorize and coordinate services and resources to support client goals.

• Maintain accurate and organized case documentation to track progress and outcomes.

• Build strong partnerships with schools, employers, medical professionals, and community organizations to enhance opportunities for individuals with vision loss.

• Travel within the service territory and occasionally across the state to meet clients and partners (ability to lift up to 35 lbs. required).

Qualifications:

• Minimum: Bachelor’s degree in counseling, psychology, social work, education, human services, or related field.

• Preferred: Master’s degree in counseling or related field, with Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) credential (to qualify for Senior level).

• Applicants without CRC are encouraged to apply; SBVI supports advanced degree and certification pursuits with financial and professional assistance.

The Ideal Candidate Will Have:

• Passion and drive to help individuals achieve independence and employment goals.

• High ethical standards, confidentiality, and respect for diversity.

• Strong communication skills (written and verbal).

• Ability to work independently while managing caseloads.

• Willingness to collaborate with community stakeholders.

• Knowledge of disability services, assistive technologies, and workplace accommodations.

Skills & Abilities:

• Write clear and concise case documentation.

• Interpret medical and vocational information to guide career planning.

• Analyze labor market trends for employment counseling.

• Develop professional, supportive client relationships.

• Use Microsoft Office and case management systems effectively.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Salary: $25.27 – $31.31 per hour ($4,044 – $5,094 monthly, depending on qualifications).

• 15 days (120 hours) vacation leave annually.

• 14 days (112 hours) sick leave annually.

• 11 paid holidays per year.

• $0 premium employee-only health insurance option.

• Flexible benefits including dental, vision, life insurance, and critical illness.

• Paid parental and family medical leave.

• 6% fully matched retirement plan.

• Reduced tuition at South Dakota colleges/universities.

• Employee wellness program.

• Ongoing education and training opportunities.

Additional Information:

• Job ID: 33233

• Pay Grade: H or I (depending on level and qualifications).

• Closing Date: October 20, 2025.

• Veterans’ Preference applies.

• Applicants encouraged to submit National Career Readiness Certificate (NCRC) if available.

• Must be legally eligible to work in the U.S.; E-Verify used to confirm employment authorization.