Employment & Career Resources

Employment & Career Resources

The VIPPS team is committed to supporting individuals and families impacted by gun violence. For many people, that support includes finding a job, returning to work, or building a long-term career.

Whether you are looking for short-term employment, job training, or a future career path, the resources below are designed to help you explore your options at your own pace.

Estimated reading time: 6 minutes

Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR)

Jobs for People with Disabilities

The Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) provides services and support for people living with disabilities who want to work.

DVR can help with:

  • One-on-one vocational counseling to identify career goals and reduce barriers
  • Employment and job placement services to help you find and keep meaningful work

To learn more or apply for services, visit the DVR website.

Student and Youth VR Transition Services

Jobs and Career Support for Young People (Ages 14–24)

DVR also offers transition services for young people with disabilities ages 14–24. These services help youth prepare for work by building skills, exploring interests, and learning how to advocate for themselves in the workplace.

Important things to know:

  • DVR often works with schools, but you do not have to be enrolled in school to qualify
  • If you are between 14 and 24 and living with a disability, you may be eligible for services

Tribal Vocational Rehabilitation (TVR)

Jobs for American Indians and Alaska Natives with Disabilities

DVR partners with Tribal Vocational Rehabilitation (TVR) programs to serve American Indians and Alaska Natives with disabilities who live in a tribal service area.

TVR programs focus on:

  • Increasing independence
  • Improving access to vocational rehabilitation services
  • Supporting long-term employment opportunities

Important Update: DVR Service Waitlist

When DVR does not have enough funding or staff to serve everyone who is eligible, it must use a waitlist, also called an Order of Selection for Services.

Starting December 8, 2025:

  • DVR expects to place most new eligible applicants on a statewide waitlist
  • Individuals with the most significant disabilities will continue receiving services
  • Others may need to wait until resources become available

These rules are set by the federal Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA).

For updates or help finding a local office, visit the DVR section of the DSHS website.

Helpful DVR Links

Career Bridge (Washington State)

Career and Education Planning

Career Bridge is Washington State’s one-stop website for career and education planning.

You can use Career Bridge to:

  • Search for current job openings
  • Explore careers based on your interests
  • Learn about wages, job growth, and future demand
  • Find education and training programs
  • Learn about funding and financial support options

Visit Career Bridge to get started: https://careerbridge.wa.gov/

Career Quiz

Match Your Interests to Career Options

Career Bridge offers both a short and long career quiz. The quiz takes only a few minutes and asks questions about your interests, work style, and preferences.

After completing the quiz, you will receive:

  • A list of your Top Traits
  • Career Groups that match your interests
  • Suggested careers with match percentages

Each career listing includes:

  • Job descriptions
  • Education or training requirements
  • Typical salary ranges
  • Career outlook information

This quiz can be a helpful first step if you are unsure where to start or want to explore new possibilities.

Start the Career Quiz here: https://careerbridge.wa.gov/quiz/career-quiz-start

Program Search

Education, Training, and Funding Opportunities

Career Bridge also offers a Program Search tool that lists approved education and training programs across Washington.

Many programs are part of the Eligible Training Provider List (ETPL). These programs may qualify for:

  • WIOA Individual Training Account (ITA) vouchers
  • Washington State Training Benefits for extended unemployment support

Programs on the ETPL must meet strict standards for:

  • Completion rates
  • Employment outcomes
  • Earnings after completion

This helps ensure quality and accountability.

Helpful Career Bridge Links

WorkSource Washington (WorkSourceWA)

Job Search, Training, and Career Support

WorkSource Washington (WorkSourceWA) connects job seekers to thousands of employment opportunities across the state and offers tools to support career growth.

WorkSource brings together state, local, and nonprofit agencies in one system to provide employment and training services for both job seekers and employers.

WorkSource services can help with:

  • Job searching and job matching
  • Resume and cover letter assistance
  • Interview preparation
  • Career planning and training referrals
  • Access to workshops and hiring events

Research shows that people who use WorkSource services often find jobs faster and earn more than those who do not.

Helpful WorkSource Washington Links

Need Help Navigating These Resources?

If this information feels overwhelming or you are not sure where to start, the VIPPS team can help you review options, understand next steps, or connect with the right program.

You do not need to figure this out alone. We are here to support you.