Youth Counselor

Reports to: Shift Supervisor
Location: Moon
Hours: Full-time, morning/afternoon, 8 hours per shift

About the role

Holy Family Institute (HFI) is a 120-year-old Catholic organization with an impeccable history of serving children and families in the Pittsburgh Region. We are one of Pittsburgh’s largest social service organizations operating 15 programs in three counties. We are an independent organization guided by Catholic Social Teachings and serving people of all faiths and backgrounds.

The Youth Counselor assists the Shift Supervisor in providing direct daily supervision and monitoring of children in care of the Journey of Hope LTFC program. Final approval for hire will be done by the Project Officer of the Office of Refugee and Resettlement, a sub-agency of the Department of Health and Human Services of the federal government.

Responsibilities

• Promote Holy Family Institute’s mission, values, professionalism, teamwork, and positive relationships with staff, youth, families, and community partners.
• Demonstrate effective communication, conflict resolution, problem-solving, and professional conduct at all times.
• Provide continuous supervision, care, and support for children and youth, including those with special needs.
• Ensure the safety, health, and wellbeing of youth by following all agency policies, procedures, and emergency protocols.
• Supervise medications, medical appointments, illness care, and communicate medical information to appropriate personnel.
• Apply HART, SELF, and approved behavioral support models to teach social, emotional, academic, and independent living skills.
• Respect children’s privacy, dignity, cultural backgrounds, religious beliefs, and individual needs while maintaining appropriate interactions.
• Maintain a safe, clean, and organized environment, including facilities, vehicles, equipment, supplies, and security measures.
• Complete all required documentation, incident reports, medical records, intake forms, and compliance-related responsibilities accurately and on time.
• Follow all training, accreditation, regulatory, reporting, transportation, and administrative requirements.
• Perform other duties assigned by supervisor.

Requirements

• High School diploma, GED or equivalent required; Bachelor’s degree preferred.
• One year working with children required; residential or human services experience preferred.
• Ability to communicate effectively and document information accurately.
• Ability to deal efficiently and effectively with a wide variety of individuals.
• Ability to maintain electronic records, medical files, and basic computer skills; knowledge of Microsoft Office applications.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Must have or be able to obtain Act 33/34 and FBI clearances.
• Valid PA driver's license and ability to drive a car or van.
• Fluency in Spanish and English (read, write, and speak) preferred.
• Must be at least 21 years of age.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to safely and successfully perform the essential job functions consistent with the ADA, FMLA, and other federal, state, and local standards.
• Ability to maintain regular, punctual attendance consistent with the ADA, FMLA, and other federal, state, and local standards.
• Ability to lift or push a minimum of 20 lbs independently or up to 50 lbs with assistance.
• Ability to stay awake for an entire working shift.
• Ability to verbally de-escalate children during a crisis situation.
• Capable of frequently climbing stairs and other activities that involve physical exertion (e.g., walking hallways, walking across campus).
• Must be able to talk, listen, and speak clearly in person and on the telephone.
• Quick physical response to a crisis situation.
• Must be able to implement CPI (Crisis Prevention Intervention) non-passive behavior techniques.

Commitment to Social Justice

Holy Family Institute and its affiliated organizations are committed to an environment that respects and values every human being and individual differences. We invest time and resources to create an inclusive environment for all stakeholders, respecting diversity that includes race, ethnicity, gender, socioeconomic status, education, disability, language, and sexual orientation. We embrace diversity of ideas, perspectives, and values, providing access, opportunity, fair treatment, and advancement for all people. We aim to eliminate barriers that prevent full participation in our programs and services, believing that all are welcome, all are neighbors, and there are no exceptions.