Position Description

There’s a momentum underway at Stark State College, and its energy comes from the exceptionally dedicated employees who work hard for students who work even harder.

Success – in its many forms – is the result.

Our Counselor of Disability Services position plays a significant role in helping to drive student success by providing disability support services at our Main, satellite and regional campuses (College Credit Plus classes at participating high schools, campus or online) and by coordinating all services for students with disabilities on their caseload.

This position has the pleasure of assisting new students through the admissions, application and financial aid processes and evaluates documentation and determines/implements accommodations for students with disabilities. The position has an additional responsibility of providing comprehensive enrollment and educational services to veterans, spouses, and dependents (including assisting with GI benefits, Ohio National Guard scholarships, and Tuition Assistance).

Position Duties

In this position you will be expected to work on the following tasks:

Provide assistance with academic advising, financial aid/GI benefits application and troubleshooting, and determining academic pathways for students with disabilities and/or military service status.

Participate in the process of admissions/recruiting, advising, and accommodated placement testing of new students. Also must coordinate these functions for returning students and current students based on advising load.

Advocate for students and act as a source of information for faculty. Problem solve when difficult situations arise concerning students with disabilities and/or military status. Act as liaison to community agencies and schools, and assist with outreach to these partners.

Review documentation provided by students and determine what type of academic accommodation the individual is entitled to, and how Stark State College will provide this accommodation.

Coordinate the academic services, such as note-takers, readers for tests, recording of textbooks, adaptive equipment, computers, and software, specialized testing, special seating, electric scooters, library assistance, and enlargement of notes, textbooks, and tests, and problems with handicapped parking which arise. Provide training in adaptive technology as needed.

Counseling of students to help them problem-solve in order to increase retention of individuals who have a myriad of difficulties and concerns.

Responsible for providing academic and career advising regarding admissions requirements, academic pathways, career exploration, the financial aid process, etc., for individuals with and without disabilities.

Act as a liaison to community agencies and schools. Participates in college and community committees as related to the mission of the college and division.

Makes recommendations to supervisor regarding recruiting, advising, special situations and events to meet college's and division's mission. Assists with open houses, tours, and other recruiting duties as assigned.

Attends appropriate training seminars as related to the position. Provides information sessions to appropriate college staff to ensure the college is in compliance with HB 488 and the American with Disabilities Act Amendments Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.

Education, Experience and Licensure/Certification Requirements

Master's degree in Rehabilitation Counseling, Special Education, or Counseling is required.

Must have a minimum of four (4) years of experience working with individuals with disabilities in a college or counseling environment.

Strong interpersonal and communication skills, along with the ability to work with a diverse population of individuals.

Computer proficiency with Microsoft Office suite of products.

Must poses a Valid Ohio Driver's license and must be able to meet College insurability requirements.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities Required

Certified Rehabilitation Counselor preferred although not required.