Residential Counselor

Charles River Center; Wellesley (MA); On-site; USD 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Charles River Center seeks a Residential Counselor to provide direct care and support for residents in daily living activities. You will implement ISPs, track progress, and promote well-being using Positive Behavioral Supports.

Role requires assisting with personal care, medication administration training within six months, and leadership in weekly house meetings while maintaining resident dignity and rights.

Qualifications

• GED or equivalent education required.
• Experience with individuals with developmental disabilities is a plus.
• Must consent to background checks and training.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct care and supervision for residents, including personal care and daily living activities.
• Develop, implement, and review Individual Support Plans (ISPs) and track progress.
• Utilize Positive Behavioral Supports to promote resident well-being and rights.
• Complete required documentation per agency policies and lead weekly house meetings.
• Transport residents to activities and appointments and assist with household management.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Teamwork

Communication

Planning

Initiative

Data collection

Education

GED or equivalent

Job description

Position OverviewThe 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 activitiesImplementing behavior plans, medical protocols, and interventionsSupporting vocational and community-based activitiesAll positions require physical assistance (e.g., lifting, transfers, emergency restraint).Essential Duties & ResponsibilitiesResident Support & CareProvide direct care and supervision in areas such as:Medical, dental, and personal careSocial and communication skillsMeal preparation and household managementTravel training and financial managementReligious 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 DutiesComplete required documentation and reporting in a timely manner per agency policies.Lead weekly house meetings to discuss:Recreation and meal planningHouse rules and general concernsResident successesMaintain 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 & CompetenciesCore SkillsInterpersonal 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 ResponsibilitiesAdheres to company policies and procedures.Maintains attendance and punctuality standards.Supports and enforces agency objectives through leadership and conduct.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 SkillsMust be fluent in English.Ability to read, interpret, and write reports and safety guidelines.Effective verbal communication with residents, families, and staff.Physical DemandsRegularly 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 AbilityAbility to follow detailed written and oral instructions.Strong problem-solving skills for daily responsibilities.