Residential Counselor

inspire2together; Apple Valley (CA); On-site; USD 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

Inspire2together is looking for an Employment Specialist in Apple Valley. This role involves overseeing a residential environment for at-risk youth, providing emotional support and mentoring. Candidates should have a high school diploma and experience with homeless youth or in residential settings. Key skills include strong communication, compassion, and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations. The position requires flexible scheduling and a valid driver's license. Join a dedicated team committed to making a difference in youth lives.

Qualifications

• Minimum 1-2 years of experience working with at-risk or homeless youth.
• Understanding of trauma-informed care, adolescent development, and crisis intervention.

Responsibilities

• Monitor the residential site to ensure a safe and respectful living environment.
• Support residents in developing independent living skills.
• Build positive relationships with residents and provide informal counseling and mentorship.

Skills

Compassionate

Strong interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Basic computer proficiency

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Human Services, Social Work, Psychology, or related field

Job description

Job Title: Employment Specialist

Reports To: Program Manager, Program Supervisor, and Organizational Leadership

Location: Apple Valley

Job Type: Full-Time or Part Time

About Us: Inspire Together is a non-profit organization offering supportive services to youth in need. Services include housing, employment, education, substance abuse, mental health and apprenticeship training. We believe all children can embrace who they are, can define their future, and can change the world.

Position Summary: The Residential Counselor is a key staff member responsible for maintaining a safe, supportive, and structured living environment for youth residents in the Transitional Living Program. This position plays an important role in modeling healthy behavior, supporting life skills development, and providing emotional and practical support to residents. The Residential Counselor collaborates closely with the program team to ensure a consistent and trauma‑informed approach to services.

Key Responsibilities

Resident Supervision & Support

• Monitor the residential site to ensure a safe and respectful living environment.
• Build positive relationships with residents and provide informal counseling and mentorship.
• Support residents with conflict resolution, crisis management, and goal setting.
• Enforce house rules and address behavioral concerns using trauma‑informed practices.

Daily Operations

• Assist with daily routines such as curfews, check‑ins, chores, and structured activities.
• Conduct room checks and ensure cleanliness, organization, and safety throughout the home.
• Monitor and document incidents, concerns, and progress in accordance with program protocols.

Skill Building & Life Skills Coaching

• Support residents in developing independent living skills, including cooking, cleaning, budgeting, time management, and self‑care.
• Help facilitate workshops, group activities, or enrichment programs as needed.
• Communicate effectively with Case Managers, Program Supervisor, and Program Manager about resident progress, concerns, and needs.Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and supervision sessions.
• Maintain appropriate documentation, including shift notes and incident reports.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent required; Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Human Services, Social Work, Psychology, or related field preferred.
• Minimum 1–2 years of experience working with at‑risk or homeless youth, or in a residential or group home setting.
• Understanding of trauma‑informed care, adolescent development, and crisis intervention.

Skills & Attributes

• Compassionate, dependable, and culturally sensitive.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to remain calm in high‑stress situations and maintain professional boundaries.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.
• Basic computer proficiency (Google Workspace preferred).

Additional Requirements

• Must be 21 years or older.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.
• Ability to pass background check and meet Inspire Together compliance standards.

This position involves working directly within a residential home setting with youth who have experienced homelessness, trauma, and other life challenges. The role requires physical presence on site, alertness during shifts, and the ability to handle behavioral or emotional crises with professionalism and care.