I'm considering a career in vocational rehabilitation and wondering about job opportunities in New Jersey. What kind of positions are generally offered, and what qualifications do they require? Any advice on where to start would be great!
A career in vocational rehabilitation is certainly rewarding, full of opportunities to enrich the lives of individuals with disabilities. In New Jersey, vocational rehabilitation centers offer a variety of job positions ranging from rehabilitation counselors, vocational evaluators, job coaches to rehabilitation nursing or occupational therapy. Let's delve a bit into some of these.
1. Rehabilitation Counselors: This job involves working directly with clients to overcome barriers to employment. You'll need a master's degree in rehabilitation counseling or a closely related field, and in many cases, certification and licensure are mandatory.
2. Vocational Evaluators: These professionals assess clients' employment potential using a variety of tools and methods. They typically require a degree in vocational rehabilitation, psychology, or a related field. Some positions may require certification.
3. Job Coaches: This is a more hands-on role, working directly with clients on job sites to aid in the transition into employment. A degree isn't necessarily required, but previous experience in teaching, coaching, or counseling may be beneficial.
4. Rehabilitation Nurses or Occupational Therapists: These positions work with clients to improve physical abilities that can impact employment. They require specialized degrees in nursing or occupational therapy, along with licensure and potentially additional certification.
Keep in mind the specifics may vary depending on the institution and the complexity of the role. Additionally, you may want to consider pursuing an internship or volunteer opportunity at a vocational rehabilitation center, as this can give you insight into the daily operations and also make you a more competitive job candidate.
In terms of where to start, the New Jersey Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services might be a good point of reference. They can provide valuable information about services offered, local opportunities, job fairs, and related licensing specifics in NJ.
Remember, the most crucial part in this field is a genuine desire to help people with disabilities gain independence and improve their lives—a function intrinsic to these roles but one that can't be earned with any degree, certification, or previous job experience.
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