Disabled Workers Trainee Program

The State of Illinois has established a Disabled Workers Trainee Program designed to grant employment opportunities to individuals living with disabilities that may prevent or provide difficulty in acquiring meaningful employment. To enroll in the program, contact us.

Disability Resource Center Email:
CMS.DisabilityResCen@illinois.gov

Disability Resource Center Phone:
217-524-7514

Disability Resource Center Mailing Address:
Disability Resource Center
401 S. Spring Street, Room 500
Springfield, IL 62704

For individuals who may not have a home computer/internet access or who may have difficulty with online application processes, resources will be provided to accommodate both program enrollment and job application processes, please contact the Disabled Workers Program for more information.

How to Enroll

Applicants must have a disability as defined by the federal Americans with Disabilities Act to qualify for the program. Eligible applicants who are confirmed into the program can then apply for Disabled Workers Trainee titles through the State of Illinois employment website at work.illinois.gov. These titles include "Public Admin Intern" and "Clerical Trainee." Only members of the Disabled Workers Trainee Program will be eligible for these positions, and only Disabled Workers Trainee Program member applications will be considered.

Positions posted will only have an education requirement. No experience will be required to gain employment through the program. When a program member is hired, they will receive on the job training through their hiring agency and department until individuals can perform duties on their own. 

Training and certification timelines can take anywhere between 6 and 24 months, depending on the number of hours worked per week (minimum 20). Upon completion of the trainee program and successful completion of the probationary period (typically 6 months) in the titled position, the member will be certified as an employee with the State of Illinois.