Disability Rights Tennessee

Employment Advocate

Disability Rights Tennessee

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Job Summary

Disability Rights Tennessee (DRT) seeks an Advocate to

  • provide legal advocacy services to individuals with disabilities who:
    • are seeking services from the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) or Centers for Independent Living
    • receive Social Security benefits and are facing employment-related issues
  • work in the East–Middle Tennessee region
  • obtain suitability approval by the United States Government, Social Security Administration, and Office of Personnel Management

Only resumes submitted with a cover letter will be considered.

Who We Are

DRT is a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting the rights of Tennesseans with disabilities.  DRT is the designated Protection & Advocacy System (P&A) and Client Assistance Program (CAP) for Tennessee.  For over 45 years, our agency has served more than 57,000 Tennesseans. DRT is funded through federal grants, state contracts, private donations, and grants.  DRT has eleven programs which provide services across the state and across issues. To learn more about DRT, visit us at DisabilityRightsTN.org or on social media.  

DRT does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service or other non-merit factor. We make all employment decisions based on business needs, qualifications, and individual merit.

Job Responsibilities

What You’ll Do

  • work with legal staff to use federal laws, regulations, and state policies to help individuals resolve issues
  • interview individuals and review records
  • maintain clear documentation
  • participate in meetings
  • conduct outreach, gather information from the community, and provide presentations
  • provide input into public policy efforts and revisions
  • participate in and provide professional development activities
  • participate in councils, boards, and committees

Qualifications

Keys to Success:

  • To be successful in this job, you must possess these values, skills and abilities:
  • self-motivation to work effectively in a remote setting
  • ability to work independently in varied settings
  • strong critical thinking, research, and evaluation skills
  • knowledge of the disability and/or mental health community
  • communication skills for working with individuals who use complex or supported communication
  • strong organization and time management skills
  • sound judgment and attention to detail
  • proficiency in business software, including Word, Teams, and Outlook
  • ability to quickly learn online case management systems
  • professional presentation skills
  • ability to communicate effectively and work collaboratively as part of a team
  • commitment to DRT’s mission and values

What Else You Should Know

  • Education requirements are flexible: a related degree is preferred in counseling, social work, human services, but experience in Vocational Rehabilitation or related field may substitute. 
  • The position is full-time (37.5 hours per week) and we offer flexibility on daily schedule
  • Remote and in-office work will be required for this position.
  • The role will require routine in-state travel on average 10% of the average work month, and a valid driver’s license; reliable transportation and insurance are necessary.
  • This position serves the eastern half of the state.
  • Candidate must live within 60 miles of DRT’s office in Nashville or Knoxville. 
  • Reliable home internet is required.
  • Technology and equipment will be provided by DRT. 
  • Successful candidate must obtain government suitability clearance by the United States Government, Social Security Administration, and Office of Personnel Management within six months of hire

Additional Information

Benefits

The salary for this position begins at $49,500; the exact salary for this position depends on experience, certifications, and skills. We offer excellent benefits such as a flexible schedule, remote work, parental leave, paid federal and state holidays, 401K, FSA, and insurance options including medical, vision, dental, life, and disability.  

How to Apply

What Now?

If this seems like you, please send a resume and cover letter to Ann Anderson, Human Resources and Finance Director at humanresources@disabilityrightstn.org

 

If you have questions about the position, reach out to Craig Lemak, Program Director at craigl@disabilityrightstn.org

Details

  • Date Posted: June 12, 2026
  • Type: Full-Time
  • Job Function: Programs and Service Delivery
  • Service Area: Social / Human Services
  • Salary Range: 49500
  • Working Hours: 37.5 hrs/wk