Job Description
PLEASE ATTACH THE ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS LISTED AT THE BOTTOM OF THIS PAGEJob ID: 33233
Agency: Department of Human Services - Division of Service to the Blind and Visually Impaired
Location:Pierre, SD
Salary: $25.27-$31.31 Hourly, depending on qualifications
Pay Grade: H or I
Closing Date: 10/20/25
This is a Full-Time 40 Hours Weekly position with the Department of Human Services - Division of Service to the Blind and Visually Impaired. For more information on the Department of Human Services, please visit https://dhs.sd.gov/en/sbvi .
The South Dakota Department of Human Services encompasses a broad field dedicated to offering services that support older adults and individuals with disabilities. Our programs promote independence and inclusion through person-centered services. DHS comes together with the common goal of bettering the lives of South Dakotans.
DHS strives to create an environment where people are inspired and challenged to create excellence, grow their skills, discover advancement opportunities, and are rewarded for their contributions. Join our team as we focus on helping our fellow human beings overcome adversity and reach their full potential.
Our Benefits Include:
- 15 days/120 Hours of Vacation Leave
- 14 days/112 Hours of Sick Leave
- 11 Paid Holidays
- Employee health insurance includes plan with a $0 premium for employee-only coverage
- Flexible Benefits - Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Critical Illness and more
- Paid Parental & Family Medical Leave
- 6% Fully Matched Retirement Plan
- Reduced Tuition for In-State Colleges/Universities
- Employee Wellness Program
- Continued Education/Training Opportunities
Click to view additional benefits information: https://bhr.sd.gov/job-seekers/work-for-state-government/index.html .
See what you can do with SBVI! We are seeking a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor who will also provide Independent Living teaching services in homes and communities. In this hybrid role, you will support people who are blind or visually impaired in finding and maintaining employment while also helping them build the skills and confidence to live independently. Based in Pierre, South Dakota, this position covers a broad service territory where you will work closely with schools, employers, and community partners to strengthen opportunities and resources for individuals with vision loss.
The Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor is a key position in the Division of Service to the Blind and Visually Impaired, located within the Department of Human Services. Our leadership team provides the necessary training to support the Division's mission of delivering individualized rehabilitation services that result in optimal employment and independent living outcomes for citizens who are blind or visually impaired. Training and support include hands-on experiences, classroom and online instruction, and peer mentoring. SBVI supports entry-level counselors in pursuing a master's degree that can lead to promotion to Senior Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor.
At SBVI, you'll join a team dedicated to making a difference! Our counselors and teachers play an active role in supporting independence, employment, and quality of life for individuals with vision loss. This position offers:
- Flexibility and support for work-life balance.
- Opportunities to make a regional impact and grow professionally.
- Structured training and mentoring to help you succeed.
- Financial and professional support to pursue relevant advanced degrees and certifications.
As a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor, your key responsibilities include:
- Meet with individuals interested in services, share program information, and guide them through the application process.
- Review medical and psychological information to make accurate eligibility decisions.
- Provide counseling and guidance as clients identify and work toward their employment and independent living goals.
- Deliver independent living teaching services in homes and communities to support daily living skills and confidence.
- Maintain clear and accurate case documentation to track progress and outcomes.
- Authorize services and resources that directly support client goals.
- Build and sustain partnerships with eye care providers, employers, schools, state agencies, and community organizations to expand opportunities for people with vision loss.
This position is a typical office setting, some travel required within assigned territory and occasional statewide travel. Ability to lift up to 35 lbs.
Licenses and Certifications: A bachelor's degree is required to be considered for this position. Ideally, this would be in the fields of counseling, social work, psychology, human services, education, or related fields; but other fields may be considered.
Applicants with a master's degree in counseling or a related field who have obtained the Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) credential may be hired at the Senior Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor level (GI).
Applicants without a master's degree or CRC are strongly encouraged to apply and will be considered for the Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor level (GH). SBVI provides training and support for counselors interested in pursuing a master's degree and CRC certification, which can lead to promotion to the Senior Counselor level.
The Ideal Candidate Will Have: A drive to help others achieve their goals and eager to deepen their knowledge of blindness and low vision.
A successful candidate will bring:
- high ethical standards and respect for confidentiality;
- strong communication skills, both written and verbal;
- the ability to work independently while managing a caseload;
- comfort collaborating with employers, schools, and community partners;
- willingness to travel within the assigned territory.
Knowledge of:
- disability services and community resources;
- cultural differences when working with people from diverse backgrounds, including individuals with disabilities;
- technology and workplace accommodations that support people with vision loss and other disabilities
Skill to:
- write clear, concise case documentation and correspondence;
- manage a caseload independently and organize work effectively;
- communicate and build relationships with businesses, service providers, and clients;
- use Microsoft Office and electronic case management systems.
Ability to:
- interpret medical, academic, and vocational information;
- analyze occupational and labor market data to guide employment planning;
- develop supportive, professional client relationships;
- monitor client progress and adjust plans as needed.
Additional Requirements: To be considered, please attach your resume.This position is eligible for Veterans' Preference per ARSD 55:10:02:08.
NCRC: If you possess a National Career Readiness Certificate, please submit the certificate with your application. For more information on how to acquire a National Career Readiness Certificate contact a South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation Job Service Office. A certificate is not necessary to be considered.
The State of South Dakota does not sponsor work visas for new or existing employees. All persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and complete an Employment Eligibility Verification, Form I-9. The State of South Dakota as an employer will be using E-Verify to complete employment eligibility verification upon hire.
The State of South Dakota offers $0 premium employee health insurance option plus eleven paid holidays, generous vacation and sick leave accrual, dental, vision, and other insurance options, and retirement benefits. You can view our benefits information here . This position is a member of Class A retirement under SDRS.
Must apply online: https://gen-stateofsouthdako-trn.inforcloudsuite.com/hcm/xmlhttp/shorturl.do?key=2IT
You must apply online, emailed resumes or submissions will not be accepted.
South Dakota Bureau of Human Resources
Telephone: 605.773.3148 Email: careers@state.sd.us
http://bhr.sd.gov/workforus
"An Equal Opportunity Employer"
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