Youth Support Counselor II
About The Position
MercyFirst is a not-for-profit human and social service agency that has been serving children and families in need since we were founded by the Sisters of Mercy/Hermanas de las Misericordia in 1894. Today our agency continues to address the emotional and physical needs of children and families in Brooklyn, Queens and across Long Island through innovative treatments and life-changing interventions. We provide community-based prevention and family foster care services, group homes in the community for struggling children and families within the child welfare and juvenile justice systems, and short-term residential services for unaccompanied migrant children. Each year, MercyFirst helps more than 3,000 children, teenagers and families overcome enormous obstacles, re-imagine their futures and develop their full potential. The children in this group residence include boys and girls ages 13-17, who have experienced serious trauma, often including physical and emotional abuse, neglect, and abandonment. Our unique group residence allows our young people the flexibility to attend their regular community school, hold part time jobs, and maintain valuable relationships in their communities while receiving necessary services and support from our staff. Under the supervision of the Program Manager, the Direct Care Worker II supervises clients, provides a safe and secure environment, and applies Agency approved methods of behavior modification including the point system, verbal de-escalation techniques and physical intervention if needed. Shifts assigned may vary and change according to Agency needs.
Requirements
- High School Diploma or equivalent or a bachelor’s degree in a related field.
- 1+ years of experience in residential care with children and/or adolescents.
- Complete attendance records accurately.
- Manage time effectively.
- Must successfully complete all required training.
- Understanding and willingness to commit to the agency’s Mission, core values, Sanctuary commitments and Social Justice.
Nice To Haves
- working with children/youth is preferred.
- Valid driver’s license strongly preferred.
Responsibilities
- Maintain a safe and secure environment for our youth
- Maintain consistent daily routines of the living unit in accordance with Agency policy and treatment plan
- Supervise clients’ attendance/participation at structured activities (i.e., school, reaction, chores, meals)
- Implement treatment team recommendations
- Report behaviors believed to be symptomatic or emotional, physical, or psychological disturbances
- Document clients’ behaviors and activities
- Safely transport clients to scheduled appointments, recreation events, etc.
- Assist children in learning independent living skills (i.e., basic hygiene, dress, cooking)
- Assist youth in completing homework assignments
Benefits
- A comprehensive health insurance package including medical, dental and vision plans for you and your family (fulltime required)
- 403B retirement benefits
- Employer-paid life insurance and long-term disability insurance
- Generous paid time off (vacation, personal, 12 paid holidays for fulltime employees, sick leave based on hours worked)
- Free employee assistance program through National EAP
- Insurance discounts for our staff and their families
- Trainings to support professional and personal development
- Employee wellness program
- Employee recognition activities
- Hiring bonus of $1,000 after 500 worked hours
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
