Transition Counselor

COMANCHE NATION - INDIAN TRIBE•Lawton, OK

1d•$18 - $19

About The Position

The Transition Counselor will collaborate with public schools, colleges, universities, trade schools, and other educational and vocational institutions within the Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) 9-county service area. The Transition Counselor will support American Indian students (16 years of age and older) with disabilities in preparing for employment and life after high school. The goal is to establish and maintain partnerships that support American Indian (AI) students with disabilities as they transition from high school to employment or post-secondary education and then employment. The Transition Counselor provides direct and indirect casework services to young adults with varying levels of functional disabilities. The Transition Counselor is responsible for interpreting and analyzing an applicant’s physical and mental condition, social and economic circumstances, attitudes and aptitudes, work history, educational background, and personality traits to support medical diagnosis and determine eligibility for vocational rehabilitation services, along with guiding the consumer through the rehabilitation process.

Requirements

A Bachelor’s degree in Rehabilitation, Psychology, Sociology, or a related field is desired. Alternatively, a Bachelor’s degree with at least 2 years of practice in Social Services, Human Services, or Workforce Development may be considered or extensive case management experience.
Prior knowledge of Vocational Rehabilitation processes and practices is highly preferred.
Knowledge of vocational rehabilitation practices, particularly in supporting students with disabilities as they transition from school to employment or further education, along with community resources.
Thorough understanding of the public-school system, including special education services, Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), and interagency collaboration.
Experience working with youth with disabilities, preferably within educational or vocational settings
Ability to communicate effectively and work collaboratively with diverse populations, including tribal communities.
Ability to maintain confidentiality and use sound judgement while managing sensitive information
Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint)
Strong verbal and written communication skills
Excellent attention to detail and high accuracy
Ability to multitask and prioritize effectively
Professional demeanor and strong organizational skills
Experience with filing systems and office procedures
Typing skills with high speed and accuracy
Teamwork and ability to contribute to group goals
Resourcefulness, flexibility, and problem-solving capabilities
Patience and the ability to anticipate needs in a fast-paced environment
Strong editing and proofreading skills
Willingness to participate in ongoing professional development
Commitment to supporting individuals with disabilities in vocational pathways
Must pass background check and drug screening
Must have a valid driver’s license and able to travel.

Responsibilities

Develop and sustain working relationships with high school special education programs to identify AI students with disabilities, assess their interests and aptitudes, and facilitate tailored transition planning.
Coordinate job placement opportunities aligned with each student’s Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE), including internships, job shadowing, and work-based learning experiences.
Work collaboratively with teachers, parents/guardians, VR counselors, and other service providers— including the State Department of Rehabilitation Services—to implement effective, culturally responsive transition strategies.
Serve as a liaison between the VR program and educational or vocational institutions to ensure smooth transitions for AI students with disabilities.
Monitor progress, provide support, and adjust transition plans as needed to meet individual student goals.
Work collaboratively with students, families, educators, and community agencies to develop individualized transition plans.
Provide guidance on vocational training opportunities and post-secondary pathways.
Assist students in identifying and pursuing employment options aligned with their skills and interests.
Advocate for appropriate accommodations and support services during and after high school.
Maintain accurate records and monitor student progress toward transition goals, along with maintaining accurate and timely documentation of all casework activities to ensure compliance with federal and state regulations, policies, and procedures.
Determining eligibility for vocational rehabilitation services based on applicable laws and policies.
Conduct comprehensive assessments to determine eligibility for vocational rehabilitation services in accordance with applicable laws and policies.
Consult with physicians, psychiatrists, and other professionals to interpret examination findings and psychological test results.
Assist individuals in developing suitable rehabilitation plans based on their needs, strengths, and vocational goals.
Develop and implement Individualized Plans for Employment (IPE) in collaboration with eligible consumers, focusing on personal preferences, interests, abilities and capabilities.
Coordinate rehabilitation co-services with the State Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) and other Tribal Vocational Rehabilitation (TVR) programs.
Provide counseling, guidance, and information and referral services to eligible Native Americans with disabilities, along with other relevant services in order for the consumer to become employed in their Informed Choice Vocational Goal.
Maintain accurate and timely documentation of all casework activities to ensure compliance with federal and state regulations, policies, and procedures.
Manage a caseload of consumers, monitor progress, and adjust rehabilitation plans as needed.
Uphold strict confidentiality of all consumer information and records.
Demonstrate empathy and cultural sensitivity while working with clients.
Perform additional duties as necessary to fulfill the responsibilities of the position.

Benefits

Annual Leave (4 hours per pay period)
Sick Leave (4 hours per pay period)
Birthday Leave
Bereavement Leave (5 paid days off for specified family members)
Fifteen (15) Paid Holidays
Medical Insurance (100% employer paid for employee only)
Dental Insurance (100% employer paid for employee only)
Life Insurance (100% employer paid for employee only- $40K coverage)
401K-up to 3% match
Medical Insurance BCBS (Spouse, Child(ren), and Family coverage available)
Dental Insurance Delta Dental (Spouse, Child(ren), and Family coverage available)
Vision Insurance VSP (Employee, Spouse, Child(ren), and Family coverage available)
Short-term Disability
Long-term Disability
Additional Employee Life Insurance
Spouse, and Child Life Insurance
AFLAC