Would you like to be part of an amazing culture that helps Arizonans reach their full potential through temporary assistance? The Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES) is looking for individuals that are committed to service, community, and teamwork.

The Department of Economic Security, Division of Employment and Rehabilitation Services (DERS) strengthens Arizona communities by bridging and minimizing gaps to employment and independence.

We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated individual to join our team as a Transition Specialist with the Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA). This position is responsible for implementing the programs and initiatives related to Transition Services within RSA.

The State of Arizona strives for a work culture that affords employees flexibility, autonomy, and trust. Across our many agencies, boards, commissions, many State employees participate in the State’s Remote Work Program and are able to work remotely in their homes, in offices, and in hoteling spaces. All work, including remote work, should be performed within Arizona, unless an exception is properly authorized in advance.

• Provide technical assistance to local educational programs related to vocational rehabilitation and transition.
• Participate in public relations and outreach concerning transition services.
• Provide leadership, technical assistance, and training to staff.
• Work as part of a team to develop and implement programs, policies, and best practices to continually enhance the transition services available to youth in the state of Arizona.
• Provide programmatic consultation regarding agreements and budgets between RSA and the local educational program.
• Work as part of a team to establish, enhance, and maintain transition agreements with local educational programs.

• Must possess knowledge of vocational rehabilitation services and transition services for youth and individuals with disabilities.
• Must have a working knowledge of the overseeing laws, regulations, rules, and policies that affect transition services for youth and individuals with disabilities involved in the Vocational Rehabilitation program.
• Write in a professional manner.
• Communicate effectively.
• Utilize a variety of software applications for the generation of information and communication.
• Provide guidance and assistance effectively in relation to transition services.
• Read and understand contracts and budgets.
• Ability to manage complex situations and relationships.
• Ability to effectively prioritize tasks and multi-task.
• Ability to travel periodically throughout the state of Arizona.

• A Master’s degree in Rehabilitation Counseling or a closely related field
• Certified Rehabilitation Counselor certification
• Experience working as a Vocational Rehabilitation Transition Counselor
• Experience working in or with the school system and the Department of Education
  

• Successfully complete the Electronic Employment Eligibility Verification Program (E-Verify), applicable to all newly hired State employees.
• Successfully pass background and reference checks; employment is contingent upon completion of the above-mentioned process and the agency’s ability to reasonably accommodate any restrictions.

For a complete list of benefits provided by The State of Arizona, please visit our benefits page

State employees are required to participate in the Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS), the State sponsored retirement contribution plan and the Long-Term Disability (LTD) program after a 27-week waiting period. The ASRS defined benefit plan provides for life-long income upon retirement. You will also have the option to participate in a voluntary deferred compensation program to take advantage of tax-deferred retirement investments.

On, or shortly after, your first day of work, you will be provided with additional information about the available insurance plans, enrollment instructions, submission deadlines and effective dates.

For questions about this career opportunity, please call (602) 679-5360 or email maritzaduffy@azdes.gov.

Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation such as a sign language interpreter or an alternative format by contacting (602) 679-5360 or emailing maritzaduffy@azdes.gov. Requests should be made as early as possible to allow time to arrange the accommodation. Arizona State Government is an AA/EOE/ADA Reasonable Accommodation Employer.