Direct Support Professional I - Childrens Congregate Care

Overview

Relief Residential Counselor

Pay: $20 per hourSign-on Bonus: $500 (paid 50% at 6 months and 50% at 12 months)

The Relief Residential Counselor provides direct care and support to youth in one of YOU, Inc.’s 24/7 acute or congregate care programs. This position is part of a staffing pool that offers intermittent and/or seasonal coverage as needed.

As a member of the care team, you will work under the direction of a shift supervisor to help maintain a safe, therapeutic environment for youth. Relief Residential Counselors are essential employees while on shift, which means you may be required to extend your scheduled hours to maintain client-to-staff ratios or report to work during declared states of emergency.

Key responsibilities include• Ensuring the safety, supervision, and well-being of youth• Supporting a positive and therapeutic treatment environment• Building professional, supportive relationships with appropriate boundaries• Participating in facility upkeep and cleanliness• Documenting client care as required• Utilizing agency-approved physical management interventions when necessary

Responsibilities

• Ensure the safety and supervision of youth by staying engaged, monitoring for risks, and reporting concerns to supervisors.• Support a therapeutic environment by modeling social skills, self-regulation, positive behavior, and overall growth.• Build supportive relationships while maintaining professional boundaries and protecting confidentiality.• Assist with daily routines, including chores, laundry, room checks, and meal preparation.• Document client care as directed, including shift notes, logs, medication, safety plans, and incident reports.• Maintain required certifications (CPI, First Aid/CPR, Universal Precautions, MAP, and Driver Safety).• Be a reliable team member by arriving prepared, attending meetings, and working with a trauma-informed, strengths-based approach.• Use approved crisis prevention strategies, focusing on verbal de-escalation and using physical interventions only when necessary.

Qualifications

• Experience working with youth required; group experience preferred• Professional, ethical, and compassionate in all interactions• Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and acceptable driving record required (per Massachusetts law, driving under the influence of any substance is prohibited and may result in termination)• Ability to maintain confidentiality and follow agency standards• Strong teamwork skills and ability to build positive rapport with others