Washington State Department of Services for the Blind

Job Developers*

A job developer, also known as a job facilitator, employment specialist, or community service provider (CRP), is an individual that the Department of Services for the Blind (DSB) funds to assist you, the participant, in locating job leads, preparing for interviews, advocating with employers, and basically accessing the labor market on your behalf.

When choosing the job developer best suited for your goals, interests, and personality, keep the following information and advice in mind:

It’s your choice.

Since a job developer will be working closely with you to find a job, it is important for you to choose the individual with which you feel you will work best.

Consider prospective job developers from many different geographical areas.

As you go through the list of job developers, don’t worry about where they are located. They will come to you. This is an accommodation that expedites job search preparation and the process in general. The only transportation issue you need to consider is how to get from your home to a prospective job site.

Interview the job developers.

This allows you to learn more about the individual with whom you will work so closely. You are the employer in this relationship. You want to choose someone you think will do the best job for you in locating job leads and advocating on your behalf- someone who knows about visual disabilities and how they are accommodated for your particular job goals. Create a list of questions to ask, such as:

• Have you ever worked with someone who is visually impaired or blind? If so, did they become employed?
• Could you tell me how you view your role as a job facilitator/developer?
• What kinds of services do you provide that will help support my job search?
• Please tell me about some successful placements with which you have helped.
• Could you please provide me with some examples of résumés which you have prepared and feel reflect your best work?
• Please describe your contacts in the business community.
• What strategies do you use to learn about job openings?
• Please describe how you feel about providing sensitive feedback (such as ways I could improve my appearance or presentation).
• Do you attend the training for job developers/facilitators that is provided by the Department of Services for the Blind (DSB)?
• How knowledgeable are you about Social Security work incentive programs?
• If I have an interview that comes up on short notice, would you be able to provide transportation?

You may have other questions to add, or you may have questions of your own. Just make sure you get the information you need to choose the right job facilitator for you.

Keep your Vocational Rehabilitation Lead Counselor (VRLC) informed of your progress.

Once the interview process is complete and you have selected your preferred job developer, notify your VRLC so that the payment process can be implemented.

Remember that the Department of Services for the Blind pays the job developer. Make sure you are getting the services you need to get your job. If at any time you have questions or concerns, contact your VRLC at your earliest convenience. All VRLCs of the Department of Services for the Blind can be reached by phone toll free at 1-800-552-7103.

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