Residential Youth Counselor/ Mentor

CJR•Waterbury, CT

2d•$24 - $24•Onsite

About The Position

The Residential Youth Mentor/ Counselor position will provide direct care, supervise, and assist the adolescents (during school and group times), and act as a role model reinforcing the adolescent’s individualized treatment plan. In addition, the Youth Mentor will facilitate groups as appropriate and will conduct therapeutic programming under the supervision of the Rehabilitation Therapist. The Youth Mentor must be sensitive to unique issues such as mental health, suicide and contraband.

Requirements

High School Diploma or GED – Required
Minimum of 6 months of experience working directly with at-risk, court-involved, or system-involved adolescents – Required
Valid driver’s license to operate and utilize the company-provided vehicle – Required
Ability to pass background checks and obtain all required certifications (First Aid/CPR, Medication Administration) – Required
Certification in Therapeutic Crisis Intervention (TCI) or willingness to obtain it within a specified timeframe
Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
Strong personal effectiveness and credibility
Ability to collaborate effectively with team members, clinicians, and families
Leadership skills and the ability to de-escalate behavioral and conflict situations
Ability to perform physical tasks and maintain safety in a youth care environment
Commitment to maintaining confidentiality and adhering to agency policies and legal requirements
Willingness to engage in ongoing professional development and training in trauma-informed care, youth development, and mental health

Responsibilities

Ensure the safety and well-being of youth by providing immediate crisis intervention when necessary
Conduct regular headcounts and safety checks to confirm all clients are accounted for and secure
Perform routine bed checks to ensure youth are present and resting appropriately
Monitor the environment for safety hazards or contraband and address issues promptly
Support youth with physical or emotional needs to ensure their safety and comfort
Observe and document youth behavior and progress to inform treatment planning
Collaborate with clinicians, shift supervisors, and team members to ensure consistent and effective care
Assist youth with daily living skills and promote independence
Lead engaging daily activities and facilitate groups to promote personal growth and social skills
Deliver therapeutic programming, including Restorative Justice Practices and DBT-Lite, tailored to individual needs
Reinforce and role model individualized youth plans
Manage and de-escalate conflicts or behavioral issues using approved intervention techniques
Clearly communicate program goals, activities, and progress to youth and their families
Use a company-provided vehicle to transport clients and families safely and reliably during work hours
Maintain confidentiality of all client information in accordance with agency policies and legal requirements
Complete all required documentation and reports accurately and on time
Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and supervision sessions to stay current on best practices and program updates
Engage in ongoing professional development related to mental health, trauma-informed care, and youth development
Promote a respectful, inclusive, and supportive environment for all youth and staff
Maintain consistent attendance and punctuality

Benefits

Company provided vehicle used during work hours
Low-cost Medical Insurance Plan option
Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance offered after 30 days of employment
Company Paid Life and Long-Term Disability Insurance
Generous Paid Vacation Package (unused time eligible for carry over)
Generous Paid Sick Time (unused time eligible for carry over)
Paid Holiday Time (separate from vacation time)
Floating Holidays (separate from paid vacation time and paid holiday time)
Annual monetary incentives
Tuition Assistance
401(k) Retirement Savings Plan with Company Match
Career Growth Opportunities
Company Celebrations & Employee Recognition Program
Employee discounts (cell phone, computer)
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Qualified Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Employer Federal Student Aid
10%-20% tuition discount at many local educational institutions, including those listed by the CT Nonprofit Alliance