Residential Counselor

Position Overview

The Residential Counselor plays a vital role in developing and implementing Individual Support Plans (ISPs) and providing direct care, training, and support to residents. This includes:

• Assisting with personal care and daily living activities
• Implementing behavior plans, medical protocols, and interventions
• Supporting vocational and community-based activities

All positions require physical assistance (e.g., lifting, transfers, emergency restraint).

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Resident Support & Care

• Provide direct care and supervision in areas such as:
  • Medical, dental, and personal care
  • Social and communication skills
  • Meal preparation and household management
  • Travel training and financial management
  • Religious practice (if desired)
• Implement, develop, and review Individual Support Plans (ISPs) and track progress.
• Assist residents in abiding by housing rules set by residents, landlords or Housing Authorities in accordance with applicable regulations.
• Transport residents to activities and medical appointments.
• Utilize Positive Behavioral Supports to promote resident well-being.
• Maintain resident dignity and rights in accordance with policies.
• Assist in advocacy and training related to human rights.

Administrative & Compliance Duties

• Complete required documentation and reporting in a timely manner per agency policies.
• Lead weekly house meetings to discuss:
  • Recreation and meal planning
  • House rules and general concerns
  • Resident successes
• Maintain financial records for residents and program funds that align with regulatory requirements and agency policies.
• Obtain and maintain state certification in medication administration within the first six months.
• Adhere to DDS and CRC regulations regarding behavior management, emergency interventions and work policy.

Awake Overnight Counselors (Additional Responsibilities)

• Provide personal care and health monitoring while remaining awake and alert.
• Perform housekeeping tasks as assigned.
• Provide emergency coverage when necessary (not exceeding 70 hours/week without approval).

Required Skills & Competencies

Core Skills

• Interpersonal Skills: Builds positive relationships with residents, staff, and families.
• Teamwork: Works collaboratively to achieve department and agency goals.
• Dependability: Completes tasks accurately and consistently.
• Communication: Effectively conveys information in oral and written formats.
• Planning & Organization: Manages multiple responsibilities efficiently.
• Initiative: Demonstrates problem-solving skills and independent thinking.
• Data Collection & Reporting: Gathers and documents data accurately.

Professional Responsibilities

• Adheres to company policies and procedures.
• Maintains attendance and punctuality standards.
• Supports and enforces agency objectives through leadership and conduct.

Qualifications

• Education: GED or equivalent.
• Experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities is a plus.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Successful completion of state and agency-mandated training:
  • First Aid/CPR (within first month of employment)
  • DDS Medication Administration Certificate (within first six months)
  • Safety Care/Legal Certificate (within first six months)
  • DPPC/Fire Safety/Human Rights/Universal Precautions Certificate (upon hire)
  • New Hire Orientation, including completion of CORE Curriculum (within first three months)
• Knowledge of Positive Behavioral Supports is preferred.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Must consent to a Criminal History Background Check (CORI) and release of information from agencies such as the Disabled Persons Protection Commission (DPPC) and Department of Developmental Services (DDS). 
• Must be able to perform essential duties with reasonable accommodation.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.

Language Skills

• Must be fluent in English.
• Ability to read, interpret, and write reports and safety guidelines.
• Effective verbal communication with residents, families, and staff.

Physical Demands

• Regularly required to sit, stand, walk, stoop, kneel, or crouch.
• Frequent use of hands for tasks and reaching.
• Ability to lift and maneuver up to 100 lbs (assistance provided when possible).
• Ability to lift:
  • Up to 30 lbs (floor to waist)
  • 10-15 lbs (waist to overhead)

Reasoning Ability

• Ability to follow detailed written and oral instructions.
• Strong problem-solving skills for daily responsibilities.