Vocational Development Specialist

Quick Facts

• Role: Vocational Development Specialist
• Schedule: Monday–Friday, 8:00am–4:30pm
• Work mode: Not virtual; in-person work with Veterans and community partners

Description

The Vocational Development Specialist provides employment-focused services to homeless or at-risk of homelessness Veterans referred by a homeless program provider or who self-present for employment services. The role includes intake interviews, vocational counseling, job development and placement support, employer negotiations for reasonable accommodations, and coordination of applications and interviews. Outcomes are tracked through individualized employment plans and delivered in collaboration with Veterans, treatment teams, and community partners.

Responsibilities

• Conduct interviews to assess the nature and level of intervention needed to obtain employment
• Provide service options for both immediate and long-term employment needs
• Deliver direct and indirect employment services (job listings access, resume preparation, vocational counseling)
• Negotiate with employers for reasonable accommodations
• Assist with completing and submitting job applications
• Coordinate and provide transportation to job interviews
• Provide interview skills training
• Collaborate with Veterans to determine service levels to reach competitive employment and employment maintenance/improved job status
• Assist Veterans in obtaining referrals to the nearest Compensated Work Therapy Program (CWT)
• Coordinate with the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) to determine eligibility for Veterans Readiness and Employment (VR&E)
• Document vocational interventions, goals, objectives, and outcomes in an individualized employment plan
• Participate in treatment team meetings and communicate job acquisition/retention strategies
• Build relationships with community partners and employers to create new opportunities
• Receive and record employer information on employment opportunities
• Participate in job fairs and may lead the coordination of employment fairs/events

Requirements

• U.S. citizenship
• Completion of required application steps, including an online assessment of critical general competencies
• Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959
• Subject to background/security investigation
• Complete online onboarding and provide acceptable identification (REAL ID compliant after May 7, 2025)
• Participate in the seasonal influenza vaccination program (VA Health Care Personnel requirement)
• Complete a 1-year probationary period or 2-year trial period
• Meet GS-11 individual occupational requirements (education and/or specialized experience per posting)
• Valid state driver’s license
• Ability to drive a government vehicle and perform intermittent driving, standing, and walking
• Preferred: 2 years working with the homeless population

Benefits

A career with the U.S. government includes a comprehensive benefits package. Benefits eligibility depends on the position type and schedule; contact the hiring agency for specifics.