Vocational Rehabilitation Job Placement Services

The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) is issuing a Request for Application (RFA) for Vocational Rehabilitation Job Placement Services to support employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. The procurement seeks qualified providers, including businesses, non-profit organizations, and self-employed individuals, to deliver comprehensive employment support services across three service tracks: Standard Employment, Supported Employment, and Customized Supported Employment. Key deliverables include job placement planning, participant referrals, job placement, retention services, community-based work assessments, targeted vocational assessments, and career exploration. Providers must complete specific training and meet minimum qualifications based on their selected service track, with employees required to submit detailed qualification documentation including criminal background checks and training certificates. The RFA is open from September 1, 2022, through June 30, 2025, with potential for a five-year contract extension contingent on satisfactory contractor performance. Payment will be based on successful placement and retention of participants in competitive integrated employment that aligns with their vocational goals and work hour requirements.

The procurement includes provisions for certified disadvantaged business participation, requiring applicants to outline their outreach efforts to include minority-owned, woman-owned, service-disabled veteran-owned, and emerging small businesses in potential subcontracting opportunities. Applicants must disclose if they are a Certified Firm and provide documentation of past relationships with diverse businesses. While specific award values are not explicitly stated, the contract template indicates a maximum not-to-exceed compensation structure. Contractors will be responsible for their own costs associated with service delivery, with ODHS paying only for completed work. The RFA emphasizes equal opportunity and requires applicants to have current business registration with the Oregon Secretary of State. Providers must maintain appropriate insurance, complete continuing education units, and undergo a comprehensive responsibility inquiry that evaluates their financial resources, expertise, past performance, and potential legal or financial challenges. Applicants employing 50 or more full-time workers with a contract price exceeding $500,000 must also provide a Pay Equity Certificate.