Residential Life Counselor-Graveyard

About the role

The Washington State School for the Blind (WSSB) is seeking a Residential Life Counselor to join our team. We are a mission-driven organization dedicated to empowering blind and low vision individuals to reach their full potential.

Responsibilities

• Provide instruction in independent living skills for blind/low vision individuals in the residential setting, including social skills, home management, hygiene management, clothing care, etc.
• Complete daily reports including shift reports, data tracking sheets, etc.
• Supervise students to ensure safety at all times in the residential setting.
• Create a safe and professional learning environment which encourages student growth and respects individual student characteristics.
• Implement positive behavior management strategies with students.
• Plan and participate with students in leisure activities.
• Complete basic housekeeping tasks in the residential setting.
• Administer medication as directed by nursing care staff.
• Perform other work as required.

Qualifications

• 1-2 years of college with major emphasis in education, child development, or related subject; OR 6 months minimum experience working with children preferably in an educational setting OR 6 months minimum experience working with blind/low vision individuals; OR equivalent education/experience which may include volunteer/life experience
• Minimum age of 18
• Basic Microsoft Office software skills
• Ability to maintain confidentiality at all times
• Ability to respond to difficult, stressful or sensitive interpersonal situations in ways that will reduce or minimize potential conflict
• Possess basic Braille competency or have the ability to obtain basic Braille competency
• Have or have the ability to obtain First Aid/CPR card and Food Handler's card
• Willingness and abilities to work with students with diverse learning needs
• Must be able to stand or sit for prolonged periods of time and ability to walk long distances, as necessary
• Ability to monitor students on long distance bus trips
• Ability to lift or assist students as necessary
• Willingness and ability to maintain good working relationships with staff, parents and students
• Must pass state and federal criminal background checks
• The ability to learn and grow and the ability to take action to meet the needs of others

Skills

Nice to have: Experience working with blind or low vision individuals; Experience working in educational environment; Certified Lifeguard

Benefits

WSSB offers a comprehensive benefits package including:

• Medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance
• Flexible spending accounts for health care expenses
• Basic life and long-term disability insurance
• Dependent care assistance
• Auto, boat, home, and renter insurance
• Washington State Employee Assistance Program
• Retirement and deferred compensation