Center For Family Services is a leading non-profit social services provider with locations across New Jersey. Recognized as a top workplace, our team is driven by a professional commitment to high-quality care and dedicated to making a positive and lasting impact in the lives of individuals and families. Over the past decade, Center For Family Services has continued to grow and evolve, expanding our services to meet the diverse and changing needs in the New Jersey community. Our comprehensive range of evidence-based and specialized programs empowers people to build brighter futures and overcome life's challenges. With a passionate and dedicated workforce of more than 1,500 professionals, Center For Family Services is a powerful force for positive change-helping individuals and families find the vision, hope, and strength for a better life.
*Sign-On Bonus
Take advantage of our new sign-on bonus! Center For Family Services is a place where you can be part of a dynamic, top workplace team dedicated to improving lives. When you apply and get hired, you are eligible for a $500 sign-on bonus.
Position Summary:
The Residential Counselor is a dedicated and compassionate professional responsible for fostering a safe, supportive, and therapeutic environment for youth facing emotional, behavioral, and psychological challenges. This role involves direct interaction with youth, implementing daily routines, and collaborating with the treatment team to ensure the overall well-being and progress of the youth in our care.
Location: Camden County, NJ
Job Type/Status: Full-time
Duties and Responsibilities:
Maintain excellent attendance, arriving on time for shifts and scheduled meetings.
Provide 24/7 supervision, support and direct counseling within the residential setting, ensuring the safety and security of youth. Assist in daily living activities, such as mealtime, hygiene, and recreation. Conduct supervision checks based on program policy. Provide transportation to and from appointments
Build positive rapport and relationships with youth residents through consistent and supportive interactions.
Collaborate with the treatment team to reinforce therapeutic interventions in the daily routine. Utilize appropriate behavior management techniques to address challenging behaviors. Effectively manage crisis situations by employing appropriate de-escalation techniques and following established protocols.Communicate incidents and observations to the appropriate staff and maintain accurate incident reports. Provides 1:1 supervision and engages youth as needed
Encourage positive peer interactions.
Lead, Facilitate and participate in structured group activities, recreation and physical education activities, promoting social skills, teamwork and a sense of community.
Provides life skills education.
Provides one-to-one assistance with challenging youth.
Demonstrate comprehensive understanding and adherence to all program policies, procedures, and regulations.
Maintain accurate and timely documentation of resident behaviors, interactions, incidents, and progress. Complete 100% of required documentation within the specified timeframe and according to program standards.
Ensure the safety, security, and well-being of youth residents at all times. Demonstrate a proactive approach to resident safety by identifying and addressing potential risks or concerns in the environment.
Participate in ongoing professional development opportunities and required training sessions. Complete 100% of mandatory training sessions and pursue additional professional development opportunities relevant to the role.
Facilitate conflict resolution and mediation among residents, promoting positive communication and conflict resolution skills.
Communicate regularly with the treatment team, including therapists, psychologists, and support staff, to share observations, updates, and concerns.
May provide intake screening and crisis intervention services during designated shift.
Other related duties as assigned
REQUIREMENTS:
High School Diploma OR GED required
One (1) years' experience providing direct care to youth in a behavioral health agency or institutional setting,
BA with 1 years' experience providing direct care to youth in a behavioral health agency or institutional setting, OR
HS Diploma or GED with 3 years' experience providing direct care to youth in a behavioral health agency or institutional setting.
Ability to sit for up to 2 hours during documentation tasks, group meetings, and administrative tasks.
Ability to lift up to 30 pounds, as residential counselors may need to assist residents with mobility challenges and participate in activities that involve physical movement.
Ability to walk up and down stairs.
Ability to assist youth with daily activities and participate in group recreational or therapeutic activities.
Ability to meet and fulfill all physical requirements of Handle with Care Training
Be comfortable working in various residential settings, including shared spaces and therapy rooms.
Provide assistance in the use of adaptive equipment and assistive devices for youth with specific needs.
Ability to use a computer, keyboard, and other office equipment with precision.
Visual acuity to review documents, input data, and perform detailed tasks.
Adequate hearing and speech capabilities to engage in conversations, presentations, and phone communication clearly and effectively.
Benefits:
At the Center for Family Services, our employees are our greatest resource, and we are committed to investing in our staff. We offer a competitive benefits package as well as ongoing resources that will support staff on their personal and professional journey.*
Excellent paid time off (PTO) program, including vacation, sick, personal, and holiday
401k Plan
Medical insurance plan options
Dental & Vision Insurance
Prescription Insurance
Life Insurance
Flexible Spending Accounts
Health & Wellness Activities
Ongoing Training & Professional Development Opportunities
Opportunity for advancement
Disclaimer Many positions require motor vehicle record evaluations and medical clearances. Center For Family Services is an equal opportunity employer offering competitive salaries and excellent benefits packages.