The vocational specialist completes a vocational interview and appropriate psychometric testing to identify the individual's work strengths and interests to provide a thorough report of potential and best match job opportunities in the community. The evaluation results will be reviewed with the client and other authorized parties.

The Vocational Specialist counsels on completing job applications that identify work skills. Conducts community outreach to employers to interview human resource personnel and direct workers in the labor market to understand the current work demands of any job goal. Research employment opportunities and verify/report current labor market findings in different jobs. In addition, the individual will develop a trending resume and cover letters, practice and develop ‘elevator speeches’ and interview skills, and utilize job resources such as Arizona@Work and Indeed.com to conduct radius searches. We also assist the individual in identifying and utilizing independent transportation available through vocational rehabilitation services.

The individual will gain soft skills training in preparation for communication with supervisors, co-workers, and the public. Research and identify volunteer job opportunities that assess basic work skills of attendance, following directions, utilization of transportation, and worksite accommodations. Clients will be assisted in identifying and applying for jobs within their residual functional capacity and vocational profile. A vocational specialist will counsel as needed to assist in overcoming work barriers and negative thinking and job shadow clients, if allowed, to verify the work environment is safe and ensure the job demands are met. Identifying proper accommodations on the worksite to maintain competitive employment is most beneficial to the client.