433 - Lead Program Counselor

Marrakech•Prospect, CT

11d•Onsite

About The Position

The Lead Program Counselor works in Residential Services, reporting to the Program Manager. The role schedules direct care staff and provides direct care to people with developmental and physical disabilities. It implements behavior and other habilitative programs and promotes community integration. The position also supports person-centered services and helps individuals participate in daily living, recreation, and community experiences.

Requirements

Associate's degree or equivalent in Human Services, Special Education, or a related field; alternatively, a high school diploma or GED and one year of residential experience will be accepted.
Experience working with people with disabilities in a community-based day or residential program.
Ability to read and interpret safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals; write routine reports and correspondence; and speak effectively before groups.
Ability to perform basic arithmetic, compute rates, and draw and interpret bar graphs.
Proficiency in Microsoft Word and basic internet and email use, with ability to learn and use web-based systems for program documentation, time and attendance, and learning management.
Ability to use Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or other videoconferencing technology as required.
Ability to solve practical problems, handle concrete variables in situations with limited standardization, and interpret written, oral, diagrammatic, or scheduled instructions.
Valid Connecticut driver's license.
Department of Developmental Services medication certification.
CPR and First Aid certification.
PMT certification.
Public Service License valid for the State of Connecticut, if applicable.
Ability to meet the physical demands of the position, including occasionally lifting or moving more than 75 pounds.
Possession and available use of a registered, insured vehicle is mandatory.
Professional competencies include understanding human systems and their interactions for people with developmental disabilities; identifying natural opportunities that promote growth and goal attainment; implementing interventions; and applying process skills required to deliver services.

Responsibilities

Oversee food purchases for individuals and ensure dietary requirements are met.
Demonstrate and implement incidental teaching.
Facilitate teamwork in implementing individual program goals.
Implement daily schedules incorporating daily living skills and community experiences.
Coordinate in-house recreation and community outings based on individuals’ interests.
Provide direct care, including medical, dietary, hygienic, behavioral, and teaching supports.
Maintain a safe and clean work environment and ensure agency property and the home are maintained, clean, orderly, and safe.
Maintain calendars and schedules for medical appointments, staff, cleaning, menus, and program implementation.
Coordinate and follow up to ensure recommendations from medical appointments are implemented.
Coordinate and follow up to ensure meaningful recreation and leisure activities are offered.
Follow agency personnel and program policies, procedures, and protocols.
Lift, transfer, and position individuals when required by service plans.
Ensure schedules are followed and implemented as written.
Ensure the home complies with licensing requirements.
Ensure staff scheduling stays within budget guidelines and meets special consideration requirements.
Complete monthly program reviews.
Implement behavioral and goal programs daily.
Document case notes, communication logs, programs, incident reports, abuse and neglect reports, safety reports, fire drills, and other required information.
Implement Physical/Psychological Management Training as required.
Use and maintain adaptive equipment, including Hoyer lifts, wheelchairs, G-tubes, J-tubes, colostomy bags, Foley catheter bags, and other adaptive devices.
Attend staff meetings and required in-service training.
Drive agency and personal vehicles safely and in accordance with state law while performing work-related duties.
Report unsafe situations and conditions promptly and follow up or take corrective measures in accordance with agency policy.
Represent the organization's values, mission, and vision; serve customers with alacrity; and promote person-centered supports.
Communicate accurately and professionally with coworkers and other providers.
Act as a role model to direct care staff while on shift.
Serve as a point of contact with on-call personnel, including nursing, management, and parents or guardians.