Live-In Residential Counselor

Isaiah House; East Orange (NJ); Hybrid; USD 38,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

Isaiah House is seeking a compassionate Live-In Residential Counselor to provide 24/7 on-site presence for residents in a transitional housing setting in East Orange, NJ. The role includes daily support, crisis response, and collaboration with case managers to promote treatment plans and residents’ success.

The position requires living on-site in a shared staff residence, flexible hours, and background checks.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent is required.
• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology, or related field preferred.
• Experience in residential, shelter, or behavioral health settings is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Provide daily resident support and serve as a primary contact for residents.
• Ensure safety, cleanliness, and visible supervision across the living environment.
• Respond to crises or emergencies and follow de-escalation protocols.

Skills

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Boundaries

Calm under pressure

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in related field

Tools

Crisis intervention training

Job description

Job Title: Live-In Residential Counselor

Location: 85-89 North 14th Street, East Orange, NJ

Position Overview:

Isaiah House is seeking a compassionate and dedicated Live-In Residential Counselor to join our team . This role is integral to our mission of providing a safe and supportive environment for individuals in need of housing and recovery support. The Live-In Residential Counselor will assist with day-to-day operations, offering emotional support, structure, and guidance to residents in a transitional housing setting.

As a live-in staff member, you will provide 24/7 on-site presence and supervision, ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents. Please note: This is a live-in role. The selected candidate must be willing to reside on-site at the agency 24/7. Compensation will apply to scheduled work hours, Sunday-Thursday, 3:00PM to 11:00PM. This role requires a strong commitment to our values of dignity, respect, and empowerment while working closely with the program team to facilitate the success of each resident’s individual journey.

Key Responsibilities:

• Resident Support: Provide daily support to residents, including monitoring their well-being, offering encouragement, and helping with life skills development. Serve as a positive role model and a primary point of contact for residents.
• Supervision & Safety: Ensure the safety, security, and cleanliness of the living environment. Conduct regular check-ins and maintain a visible presence throughout the property.
• Crisis Management: Respond to resident crises or emergencies, including conflicts, mental health concerns, or substance use issues. Follow protocols for de-escalation and seek appropriate assistance when necessary.
• Program Adherence: Support residents in adhering to house rules, treatment plans, and goals set by case managers. Help track residents’ progress and participate in meetings to review individual plans.
• Community Building: Facilitate group meetings, activities, and recreational events to promote a sense of community and belonging among residents. Encourage peer support and positive group dynamics.
• Documentation & Reporting: Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of resident interactions, incidents, and other required documentation. Provide reports to supervisors and program staff as needed.
• Communication: Serve as a liaison between residents and program staff, ensuring that any concerns or needs are addressed promptly.

Qualifications:

Education & Experience:

• High school diploma or equivalent required; Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology, or a related field preferred.
• Experience working in a residential, shelter, or behavioral health setting is highly desirable.
• Training or certification in crisis intervention, mental health first aid, or substance abuse counseling is a plus.

Skills & Abilities:

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to relate to individuals from diverse backgrounds.
• Ability to maintain professional boundaries while building trust with residents.
• Sound judgment, conflict resolution skills, and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations.
• A compassionate and non-judgmental approach to working with individuals facing challenges related to homelessness, addiction, mental health, and trauma.

Personal Requirements:

• Must be able to live on-site in a shared staff residence at Isaiah House.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and overnight shifts.
• Strong work ethic, reliability, and a commitment to supporting the mission of Isaiah House.
• Must pass background checks and drug screenings as part of the hiring process.

Join our passionate team and make a meaningful difference by helping to build a development program that will transform the lives of Essex County’s most vulnerable families.

Job Information:

• Job Type: Full-Time
• Schedule: Live-In