Residential Counselor

Vinfen•Rocky Hill, CT

10d

About The Position

A Residential Counselor provides direct support to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in a small group residential setting or an individual living arrangement. Working with the people served, their families, friends, employers, and support staff, the counselor helps build independence skills and improve each person’s quality of life. The role includes administering medication in accordance with the Medication Administration Plan (MAC), implementing treatment plans, and supporting activities of daily living such as household chores and cooking. Residential Counselors also help residents connect with their communities, including by providing transportation for outings, shopping, and medical appointments. The position requires a high school diploma or equivalent, a valid driver’s license, and the ability to meet the stated driving and physical requirements. CPR, First Aid, and Safety Care certifications are required within two weeks of hire. MAC follows Connecticut guidelines. The pay range is USD $22.05 per hour.

Requirements

A high school diploma or equivalent is required.
A valid driver’s license must be presented at employment; incumbents must be at least 21 years old, have held a valid U.S. driver’s license for at least six months, and pass a driver screening background check.
Driving is required using either a Vinfen van or a personal vehicle. Personal vehicle drivers must maintain adequate insurance and a safe driving record, subject to annual checks.
Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, stoop, crouch, crawl, climb, sit, reach, climb stairs, and maneuver through narrow spaces or hallways.
Ability to lift at least 25 pounds using proper lifting techniques or a two-person lift.
Ability to assist clients with activities of daily living.
Ability to operate a computer and office equipment, including a calculator, copier, and printer.
Ability to speak, hear, and communicate with clients, staff, and external representatives.
Required vision abilities include close, distance, color, peripheral, and depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
CPR certification is required within two weeks of hire.
First Aid certification is required within two weeks of hire.
Safety Care certification is required within two weeks of hire.
Knowledge and use of advocacy techniques, different communication styles, empowerment and self-advocacy techniques, participatory planning techniques, 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.
Provide training and support, including rehabilitative and behavioral interventions, monitoring, and assistance with safety, appointments, money management, activities of daily living, grocery shopping, meal planning, cooking, and household chores.
Perform hands-on tasks as needed to implement support plans.
Help residents become integrated into their communities and access community-based support and resources.
Plan recreational and social activities that support 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 communication logs.
Store, administer, document, and dispose of medication in accordance with MAC requirements, funding source regulations, and company policy.
Communicate and share information with interested parties, including nurses, funding agencies, case managers, service providers, and physicians.
Participate in mandated training and staff meetings, assist with new staff orientation, and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.
Maintain program site safety and upkeep, including housekeeping, lawn mowing, snow shoveling, and garbage removal.
Follow corporate and divisional policies and procedures, including safe work practices, workers’ compensation, universal precautions, and exposure control.
Complete required paperwork, logs, and online records, including timesheets and community membership logs.
Ensure required staff-to-consumer ratios are maintained and provide last-minute coverage as required.
Serve as a human rights advocate, provide physical intervention or first aid during behavioral or medical emergencies, and report to the Disabled Persons Protections Commission as required.
Maintain required certifications, review and reply to work emails, and follow administrative policies.
Perform other related duties as required.