Disabled Workers Trainee Program

The State of Illinois has established a new 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.

Disabled Workers Program E-Mail:
CMS.DisabilityResCen@illinois.gov

Disabled Workers Program Coordinator Phone:
217-524-7514

Disabled Workers Program Mailing Address:
CMS Disabled Workers Program Coordinator
Springfield Assessment Center
130 W. Mason Street
Springfield, IL 62702

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 positions marked as Disabled Workers Trainee Program on the State of Illinois employment website at work.illinois.gov. 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, pending on the number of hours worked per week (minimum 20). Upon completion of the trainee program and six months in the titled position, the member will be certified as an employee with the State of Illinois.