Residential Counselor (Relief)

About the role

The Dimock Center is a federally qualified community health center that heals and uplifts individuals, families and communities. Our vision is to redefine the model of a healthy community by creating equitable access to comprehensive health care and education. We promote a culture of respect, excellence, equal opportunity, and commitment to our employees and the communities we serve. We have five off campus houses (24 individual clients) for developmentally disabled adults, usually with a diagnosis of autism or Down Syndrome.

Summary

The Residential Counselor assists individuals living in one of Dimock's Community Residence to live as independently as possible and to become active, contributing citizens and participants in the community. The role of the Residential Counselor will vary depending on the level of assistance needed by each individual.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain a warm, friendly, cooperative atmosphere in the residence in which individuals live and staff work
• Safeguard the privacy and confidentiality of the residents and staff and treat individuals with dignity and respect at all times
• Provide case management services for designated individuals
• Perform duties that ensure the health, safety and well-being of individuals and staff, including proper maintenance of house, lawn and vans
• Assist in the development and implementation of Individual Support Plans
• Maintain appropriate records pertinent to ISPs and other records as directed by the Program Manager
• Develop and carry out recreational/community activities in cooperation with the wishes of the individuals and in concert with the Program Coordinator and Program Manager
• Administer medication according to all DDS and DPH regulations
• Implement and follow through on all medical treatment plans as prescribed for all individuals
• Follow the regulations and suggestions as outlined by DDS Quest surveys and other pertinent licensing agencies
• Instruct individuals in activities of daily living, self-help and socialization skills. These essential programs may require physical assistance, use of teaching techniques such as faded cueing, reinforcement schedules and hand-over-hand assistance
• Cover the house when necessary on an emergency basis, including remaining on-site during emergencies such as snow storms until relieved by incoming staff member
• Attend at least two other related training annually
• Establish and maintain professional, courteous communication at all times with all individuals' families, day program staff, guardians, medical personnel, DDS personnel, and all others involved in the individuals' lives
• Represent Dimock's residential programs to the public in a professional manner at all times

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required
• One year of experience with developmentally disabled population required
• CPR/First Aid and Medication Administration Certification required within 90 days of hire
• Ability to prioritize responsibilities in order to achieve desired results in required time frame
• Takes responsibility for delivery of services as part of team effort in unit/department
• Takes initiative in making suggestions for improvement of services
• Meets deadlines without causing undue disruption

Work Environment

Residential setting. Medium physical demands (requires lifting 40 lbs., with frequent carrying of up to 25 lbs.). Schedule varies; some evenings or weekends may be required.

Pay

$17.91 - $19.36 per hour