Residential Counselor (3839)

Charles River Center; Needham (MA); On-site; USD 23,435 - 33,377; Full time

Job summary

Charles River Center is looking for a Residential Counselor in Needham, MA, to develop and implement Individual Support Plans (ISPs) and provide direct care and support to residents. The ideal candidate will assist with personal care, facilitate daily living activities, and promote residents' well-being through positive behavioral supports.

This full-time position requires strong interpersonal skills, valid driver’s license, and experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities is a plus. Join us to make a difference in the lives of individuals with disabilities.

Qualifications

• Experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities is a plus.
• Valid driver's license required.
• Must consent to a Criminal History Background Check.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement Individual Support Plans (ISPs) for residents.
• Provide direct care, training, and support to residents.
• Assist residents in abiding by housing rules and transport them to activities.

Skills

Interpersonal Skills

Dependability

Communication

Planning & Organization

Data Collection & Reporting

Education

GED or equivalent

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Job Location: Group Home (21), Needham, MA 02492.
Position Type: Full Time.
Education Level: High School.
Salary Range: $20.62 - $20.62 Hourly.
Job Shift: Any.

Position Overview

The 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 activities, implementing behavior plans, medical protocols, and interventions, and supporting vocational and community-based activities. All positions require physical assistance (e.g., lifting, transfers, emergency restraint).

Resident Support & Care

Provide direct care and supervision in areas such as:

• Medical, dental, and personal care
• Social and communication skills
• Meal preparation and household management
• Travel training and financial management
• Religious 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 Duties

Complete required documentation and reporting in a timely manner per agency policies.

Lead weekly house meetings to discuss:

• Recreation and meal planning
• House rules and general concerns
• Resident successes

Maintain 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 & Competencies

Core Skills

• Interpersonal 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 Responsibilities

• Adheres to company policies and procedures.
• Maintains attendance and punctuality standards.
• Supports and enforces agency objectives through leadership and conduct.

Qualifications

• 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 Skills

• Must be fluent in English.
• Ability to read, interpret, and write reports and safety guidelines.
• Effective verbal communication with residents, families, and staff.

Physical Demands

• Regularly 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 Ability

• Ability to follow detailed written and oral instructions.
• Strong problem‑solving skills for daily responsibilities.