Lead Counselor

About the role

The Lead Counselor is responsible for assisting the Residence Manager in maintaining an effective behavior/habilitation program for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The Lead Counselor provides indirect supervision of, and assistance to, DSPs assigned to the residential program.

Responsibilities

• Provide supervision to DSPs and assist in the oversight of the day-to-day operations of the residence, including but not limited to meal preparation, maintaining a clean and safe environment, housekeeping duties, medication administration, reporting of all maintenance issues (in Fiix system), data collection, medical and behavioral events (in Precision Care).
• Assist with training existing and new employees on Opengate best practices and policies and procedures.
• Serve as a role model by utilizing the Core Competencies and the NADSP code of ethics, to be included in coaching and supervision with DSPs.
• Submit end of shift report of the daily events, which includes, but is not limited to: in-house activities, community inclusion, the use of PRN Medication, visitors, use of Restrictive SCIP-R physical techniques, and noteworthy updates related to the residence or people living in the residence.
• Establish procedures, policies and routines to promote the safety and well-being of the people supported, including ensuring that all people supported are properly clothed and clothing inventories are up to date.
• Monitor the behavior of people supported to ensure the safety of others.
• Assist people being supported with the handling and managing of their SSI funds, including personal shopping and recreation.
• Provide oversight of Agency funds (e.g. petty cash) to ensure appropriate use of funds, including the utilization of tax exemption forms, and secure receipts.
• Provide coaching to staff on duty.
• Facilitate community inclusion on a weekly basis and reconcile community inclusion information consistent with required agency procedure.
• Coordinate leisure schedules and monitor leisure activities in accordance with each person's interests and needs.
• Attend and participate in required meetings.
• Ensure that staff assignments are present for each shift.
• Coordinate with On-Site Supervisor the daily activities of the people supported as they pertain to challenging/interfering behaviors, minor incidents, and off grounds trips.
• Participate in the on-site rotation for Lead Counselors working in the Somers location.
• Coordinate residence documentation relative to ADL skills, maintenance issues, including food and supply requests.
• Assist with the coordination/facilitation of medical appointments.
• Provide crisis intervention assistance and relief coverage where required.
• Ensure that families and visitors are greeted in a courteous friendly manner.
• Attend meetings and serve on committees as directed.
• Follow federal, state, and local governmental regulatory guidelines pertaining to a safe, healthy, and clean work environment, reporting health and safety concerns to the supervisor.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Minimum of 1-year experience as a Direct Support Professional (DSP).
• A valid driver's license in Tri-State area required.
• This role is active and requires frequent standing, walking, and the ability to lift at least 50 lbs.
• Ability to assist the people supported with movement, ensuring their safety and comfort.

Benefits

• PAID training to help you succeed and grow in your role.
• Comprehensive Medical, Vision, and Dental Insurance.
• Employer-paid vision and dental premiums to keep you covered.
• Tuition reimbursement for your personal and professional development.
• Generous paid time-off to maintain your work-life balance.
• A supportive, dynamic team environment where your contributions are valued and celebrated.

Pay

Salary: $21.50 - $23.16 hourly. Compensation will be commensurate with job qualifications and work experience.