Frequently Asked Questions
Competitive Employment helps adults with disabilities find and keep jobs in their communities alongside people without disabilities. Employees earn competitive wages and have the same opportunities and benefits as other workers.
This program is an important part of the services BCI provides. If you are looking for entry-level or mid-level work and need extra support because of a disability, our Competitive Employment program may be able to help.
Employees who find a job through Competitive Employment will earn at least Missouri’s minimum wage. Pay may be higher depending on the job.
Many jobs are entry-level or mid-level positions with opportunities to learn new skills and advance. Some jobs connected to BCI’s Vocational Training programs have starting wages of $20 per hour or more.
Work hours depend on the needs of each job and employer. Both full-time and part-time jobs may be available, depending on the employer and position.
To qualify for traditional employment services, you must be at least 18 years old and live in St. Charles, Lincoln or St. Louis County. Non-traditional services are available starting at age 16.
You must be able to work with limited support and meet the job’s basic performance expectations. You must also be able to work safely without aggressive behavior and manage your own medications, if needed.
People in our Competitive Employment Program are responsible for getting to and from work. Your service coordinator or case manager can help you learn about transportation options and available funding.
We can also help you explore transportation resources through your existing support team, including the St. Louis/St. Charles Regional Center or DDRB Case Management Team.
You do not need to be a Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) client to use our Competitive Employment Program. However, we encourage people working in the community to become VR clients so they can access a full range of employment services and support.
If you need support after you are hired, BCI also offers Follow-Along Services. This support can help you adjust to changes at work or take on new responsibilities throughout your career.
No. BCI’s Competitive Employment program helps people find jobs where they work alongside people without disabilities and have the same opportunities, responsibilities, benefits, and pay. This is often called competitive or integrated employment.