Residential Counselor

Vinfen•Rocky Hill, CT

26d

About The Position

A Residential Counselor II provides direct support to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in a small group residential setting or an individual living arrangement. The counselor works with the people served, their families, friends, employers, and other support staff to build independence skills and improve quality of life. The role includes administering medication under the Medication Administration Plan (MAC), implementing treatment plans, and assisting with activities of daily living such as household chores and cooking. Counselors also help residents connect with their communities by providing transportation for activities such as shopping and medical appointments.

Requirements

A high school diploma or equivalent is required.
A valid driver's license must be presented at the time of employment.
Must be at least 21 years of age and have held a valid U.S. driver's license for at least six months.
Must pass a driver's screening background check.
If using a personal vehicle, must maintain adequate insurance and a safe driving record, which is subject to annual checks.
Must be able to stand, walk, bend, kneel, stoop, crouch, crawl, and climb; this is a physically active position.
Must be able to lift at least 25 pounds using proper lifting techniques or a two-person lift.
Must be able to operate a computer and office equipment such as a calculator, copier, and printer.
Must be able to sit, reach, climb stairs, and maneuver through narrow spaces or hallways.
Must be able to assist clients with tasks of daily living.
Must be able to speak, hear, and communicate with clients, staff, and external representatives.
Must have close, distance, color, peripheral, and depth vision and be able to adjust focus.
Must obtain CPR certification within two weeks of hire.
Must obtain First Aid certification within two weeks of hire.
Must obtain Safety Care certification within two weeks of hire.
Must follow MAC requirements under Connecticut guidelines.
Knowledge and use of advocacy techniques, communication styles, empowerment and self-advocacy techniques, participatory planning, physical personal management skills, household management skills, and crisis intervention techniques.
Sensitivity to cultural, religious, racial, disability, and gender issues.
Participatory, collaborative, and teaching skills.
Ability to work independently and as part of an interdisciplinary team.
Ability to learn and use online tools such as Microsoft Outlook and an electronic health record.

Nice To Haves

At least one year of experience and/or training in a related function is preferred.

Responsibilities

Assist in developing, implementing, and documenting treatment, including ISP/IPs and clinical programs.
Train and support people served in rehabilitative and behavioral interventions, monitoring, fire and safety regulations, appointment scheduling, money management, activities of daily living, grocery shopping, meal planning and cooking, household chores, and related areas.
Perform hands-on tasks in the program as needed to implement support plans.
Help individuals become integrated into their communities and access community-based support and resources.
Plan recreational and social activities that promote emotional well-being and quality of life, including celebrations, outings, community travel, church activities, decorating, and shopping.
Provide transportation as necessary.
Assess residents’ physical and emotional status and report changes to a supervisor.
Monitor residents’ funds as needed.
Maintain records, collect behavior and academic data, maintain progress notes, enter information into the electronic health record, and document incidents, programs, and routine activities in a communication log.
Store, administer, document, and dispose of medication in accordance with MAC requirements, funding source regulations, and company policy.
Communicate with and provide information to program nurses, funding agencies, case managers, other service providers, Visiting Nurses Association nurses, and physicians.
Participate in mandated training and staff meetings, assist with orienting new staff, and ensure compliance with internal and external regulatory bodies.
Ensure program site safety and maintenance, including housekeeping, lawn mowing, snow shoveling, and garbage removal.
Comply with corporate and divisional policies and procedures, including safe work practices, workers’ compensation, universal precautions, and exposure control.
Complete paperwork, logs, and online records, including communication and community membership logs, chore schedules, timesheets, and application forms.
Ensure required staff-to-consumer ratios are maintained and provide last-minute coverage as required.
Act as a human rights advocate, provide physical intervention or first aid in emergencies, and serve as a reporter to the Disabled Persons Protections Commission.
Maintain required certifications, review and reply to work emails, and follow Vinfen administrative policies.
Perform other related duties as required.