RESIDENTIAL COUNSELOR

Specific Responsibilities

• Run the residential shift and maintain program structure and routines.
• Ensure resident safety at all times through active supervision and monitoring.
• Respond to resident concerns, conflicts, and behavioral issues in a trauma-informed manner.
• Enforce house rules consistently, respectfully, and fairly.
• Escalate safety concerns, incidents, or compliance issues immediately to supervisory staff.
• Maintain a visible and active presence throughout the residence, including regular movement through common areas and resident spaces.
• Complete and document required childcare checks twice per shift, as applicable(MS2).
• Ensure the residence is clean, safe, and orderly.
• Monitor completion of assigned chores and upkeep of common and resident areas.
• Support consistent adherence to daily schedules and routines.
• Address environmental or behavioral issues that impact safety or program functioning.
• Communicate relevant updates, concerns, and incidents to the Residential Coordinator or Program Supervisor.
• Read the communication book at the start of each shift and document as required.
• Complete log book entries each shift.
• Provide and receive clear verbal shift reports during staff handoff to ensure continuity of care.
• Review staff meeting minutes when unable to attend scheduled meetings.
• Complete accurate and timely daily shift notes in the electronic health record (EHR).
• Document resident observations, incidents, significant interactions, and meetings facilitated during the shift.
• Document medication observation, toxicology screens, room checks, and searches in accordance with policy.
• Ensure all documentation is factual, objective, role-appropriate, and completed before the end of the shift.
• Complete and observe residents self-administer medication in accordance with program policy.
• Ensure medication procedures are followed precisely and documented accurately.
• Conduct and document daily room checks.
• Complete bag searches in accordance with policy.
• Administer and document urine toxicology screens as assigned.
• Ensure all monitoring activities are conducted respectfully, consistently, and in compliance with program standards.
• Facilitate or support assigned program meetings, including daily, weekly, or monthly house meetings.
• Document all meetings facilitated in the EHR.
• Support program activities as directed by supervisory staff.
• Identify and report maintenance or safety concerns during shifts.
• Complete or assist with work order submissions as directed.
• Escalate urgent facility or safety issues immediately.
• Maintain professional boundaries with residents at all times.
• Follow all SCO, MSC, and OASAS policies and procedures.
• Use trauma-informed, respectful communication.
• Participate in supervision, required training, and performance evaluations.
• Seek guidance and escalate concerns appropriately when unsure how to proceed.

Qualifications

• A high school diploma or GED required.
• An associate’s or bachelor’s degree in human services or related field preferred.
• Experience working in residential, behavioral health, substance use, or human services settings preferred.
• Knowledge of trauma-informed care and recovery-oriented environments.
• Ability to maintain clear documentation and follow program procedures.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and de-escalation skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Proficiency with electronic health records and basic Microsoft 365 applications preferred.
• A valid NYS Driver’s License and acceptable driving record, as applicable.
• Successful completion of required background checks and health clearances.

Knowledge, Skills, & Competencies

• Be team players.
• Have a strong sensitivity to cultural differences present among staff and clients within our organization.
• Possess a strong belief in people’s ability to grow and change; forge a mutually respectful partnership with persons served and their families.
• Ability to set limits and maintain helping role of practitioner and to intervene appropriately.

Working Conditions

• On-site role in a residential program.
• Shift-based schedule including evenings, overnights, weekends, and holidays as assigned.

Benefits

• Medical insurance.
• Vision and Dental (for FT staff).
• 100% agency paid life insurance.
• 403B retirement plan.
• Generous PTO package.
• Paid training.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• Discounts on phone services & more!

SCO Family of Services is an equal employment opportunity employer.