Shirley Ryan AbilityLab·Chicago, Illinois
The counselor evaluates patients' employment potential through interviews and vocational tests to develop suitable educational and vocational goals. They manage patient cases, document progress, and assist in the job placement process and skill development.
Shirley Ryan AbilityLab is the global leader in physical medicine and rehabilitation for adults and children with the most severe, complex conditions. By joining our team, you’ll be part of our life-changing mission and vision. You’ll contribute to an innovative, multifaceted culture that is second to none — one that embraces collaboration, excellence, discovery and compassion. You’ll play a role in something that’s never been done before as we integrate science and clinical care to help patients achieve better, faster outcomes — as we Advance Human Ability, together.
Summary The Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor will evaluate patient's potential for employment or training. Interviews, counsels and administers vocational evaluation tests to patients. Coordinates monitors and assess patient's progress through Vocational Rehabilitation process. Develops vocational and educational goals suitable to patient's needs.
The Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor will consistently demonstrate support of the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab statement of Vision, Mission and Core Values by striving for excellence, contributing to the team efforts and showing respect and compassion for patients and their families, fellow employees, and all others with whom there is contact at or in the interest of the institute.
The Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor will demonstrate Shirley Ryan AbilityLab Core Attributes: Communication, Accountability, Flexibility/Adaptability, Judgment/Problem Solving, Customer Service and Core Values (Hope, Compassion, Discovery, Collaboration, & Commitment to Excellence) while fulfilling job duties.
The Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor: Manages, reports, and documents assigned patient cases, which includes interviewing, counseling, and evaluating patients to assist them adjust to a new way of life. Establishes patient vocational rehabilitation objectives and coordinates patient progress by counseling and evaluating patient progress. Evaluates patient vocational ability and potential by administering, scoring, interpreting and reporting selected vocational evaluations, situational assessments, return to work plans and job site evaluations. Interviews patients, monitors emotional and physical adjustment to disability and provides counseling regarding vocational and educational alternatives. Prepares and maintains reports on patient progress in vocational services for physicians and medical team, medical records, insurance companies, government agencies, and DORS. Assists in patient placement process, recommends placement objectives and educates clients regarding job seeking skills, resume writing and interviewing techniques. Performs all other duties that may be assigned in the best interest of the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab.
Reporting Relationships Reports directly to the Manager, Vocational Rehabilitation Services
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Required Requires knowledge of career development, counseling, testing and sampling techniques normally acquired through completion of a Master's degree in Vocational Rehabilitation Counseling, Vocational Evaluation or related field.
Certification as a Rehabilitation Counselor by the Commission on Rehabilitation Certification required within 3 months of hire.
CPR certification required.
Demonstrates an understanding of counseling techniques, knowledge of vocational materials, equipment and resources, which can be gained through one year of related work experience.
Able to meet revenue productivity requirements for a Rehabilitation Specialist as determined by department policy.
Must have interpersonal skills sufficient to effectively communicate with clients, hospital personnel and outside contacts.
Analytical abilities in order to interpret test results and prescribe appropriate treatment as well as to assess client's condition and progress.
Working Conditions Normal office environment with little or no exposure to dust or extreme temperature. Travel to assigned offsite locations and jobsites as necessary.
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified. Pay and Benefits*: Pay Range: $52,300.00 - $89,500.00
Shirley Ryan AbilityLab offers a comprehensive benefits program that is competitive with our industry peers in our geographic locations: https://www.sralab.org/benefits *Benefits and benefits’ eligibility can vary by position. Actual compensation will be determined by equity and qualifications of the role. Equal Employment Opportunity Employer Shirley Ryan AbilityLab is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. All applicants will be afforded equal employment opportunity without discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, marital status, national origin or ancestry, citizenship status, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, military status, order of protection status, unfavorable discharge from military service, or any other characteristics protected by law. EEO is the Law | EEO is the Law - Know Your Rights | View our Full Policy Shirley Ryan AbilityLab is an Affirmative Action Employer as required by law.
Requires a Master's degree in Vocational Rehabilitation Counseling or a related field and CPR certification. Certification as a Rehabilitation Counselor by the CRC is required within three months of hire, along with one year of related work experience.
Market context
In Illinois, vocational rehabilitation counselor openings often draw candidates with counseling experience, so roles can be competitive when employers want both client support skills and credential readiness. This posting requires a master’s degree, CPR certification, and CRC certification within three months of hire, so reviewing your credential timeline and documenting related experience before applying can help. Job requirements and benefits on this platform are AI-summarized from the original job description, saving you research time.