Karen M. Herald
Knoxville
Summary
Dynamic Job Accommodation Specialist at Sedgwick with a proven track record in ADA compliance and effective problem-solving. Expert in developing tailored rehabilitation strategies and collaborating with diverse stakeholders to enhance workplace accessibility. Skilled in case documentation and client support, ensuring successful outcomes for individuals facing employment barriers.
Overview
21
21
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Job Accommodation Specialist
Sedgwick
Knoxville
01.2025 - Current
- Conducted interactive consultations to establish reasonable workplace accommodations under ADA, enhancing employee access and workplace inclusivity.
- Evaluated medical documentation to identify functional limitations, aligning appropriate job accommodations with employee needs and organizational policies.
- Collaborate with employers, employees, and healthcare providers to implement effective accommodation plans.
- Provide guidance on ergonomic solutions, assistive technology, modified schedules, and transitional work strategies.
- Maintain detailed case documentation and ensure compliance with federal and state disability regulations.
- Supported return-to-work planning by identifying barriers and recommending tailored solutions, facilitating smoother transitions for employees.
Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor (Masters)
State of Tennessee
Knoxville
05.2017 - Current
- Developed individualized plans with each client to achieve career goals, including college assistance and job placement services.
- Evaluated abilities and needs to help clients set realistic goals and develop successful rehabilitation plans.
- Identified employment barriers and recommended strategies to address issues like inflexible schedules and transportation challenges, enhancing clients' access to job opportunities.
- Discussed service options to connect clients with relevant program resources, facilitating their journey towards successful employment.
- Conferred with medical and mental health professionals to understand each client's background and limitations.
- Adhered to company guidelines and procedures consistently in daily tasks.
Children's Services, DCS Maximization Specialist
State of Tennessee
New Market
02.2013 - 05.2017
- Maintained up-to-date knowledge of public assistance programs to effectively train staff and enhance service delivery.
- Compiled and evaluated personal and financial data to verify eligibility status and ensure compliance with program requirements.
- Initiated procedures to grant, modify, deny, or terminate assistance and referred applicants to other agencies.
- Coordinated assistance changes, organized documentation, and updated systems to streamline processes for applicants.
Department of Human Services, Eligibility Counselor 2
State of Tennessee
Knoxville
08.2005 - 02.2013
- Interviewed benefits recipients to certify eligibility for continuing benefits.
- Initiated procedures to grant, modify, deny, or terminate assistance and referred applicants to other agencies.
- Performed intake and assessment for new applicants for financial and healthcare programs.
- Guided clients in completing application forms for job referrals and unemployment compensation claims, ensuring accurate submissions.
- Clarified application details, eligibility requirements, legal rights, and payment methods to enhance client understanding.
- Connected individuals to appropriate public and private agencies based on personalized needs for comprehensive support.
- Referred applicants to job openings and interviews according to administrative guidelines.
Education
Master of Arts - Rehabilitation Counseling
University of Kentucky
Lexington, KY05-2017
Bachelor of Arts - Human Services/Management
University of Phoenix
Knoxville, TN02-2007
Associate of Applied Science - Human Services
Northern Kentucky University
Highland Heights, KY12-1989
Skills
- ADA compliance
- Plan rehabilitation strategies
- Assess needs
- Support clients
- Client advocacy
- Case documentation
- Problem-solving
- Task management
- Prioritization
- Collaboration
- Teamwork
- Multitasking
- Oral communication
- Networking
- Industry analysis
Certification
- Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC)
- Certified Vocational Evaluation Specialist (CVE)
Timeline
Job Accommodation Specialist
Sedgwick
01.2025 - Current
Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor (Masters)
State of Tennessee
05.2017 - Current
Children's Services, DCS Maximization Specialist
State of Tennessee
02.2013 - 05.2017
Department of Human Services, Eligibility Counselor 2
State of Tennessee
08.2005 - 02.2013
Master of Arts - Rehabilitation Counseling
University of Kentucky
Bachelor of Arts - Human Services/Management
University of Phoenix
Associate of Applied Science - Human Services
Northern Kentucky University