Youth Counselor

The Phoenix Project Youth Counselor Staff is responsible for providing day-to-day care and support to children and youth in residential group homes or foster care settings. This role involves creating a safe, nurturing environment that promotes the physical, emotional, and social well-being of residents. Direct Care Staff play a crucial role in the daily lives of children, offering guidance, supervision, and assistance with daily activities.

Key Responsibilities

• Daily Care and Supervision:
• Provide direct supervision and care to children and youth in residential settings.
• Assist with daily routines, including waking up, meal preparation, personal hygiene, and bedtime.
• Ensure the safety and well-being of residents at all times.
• Emotional and Behavioral Support:
• Build trusting relationships with children and youth, offering emotional support and guidance.
• Implement behavior management strategies and de-escalation techniques as needed.
• Provide a positive and nurturing environment that encourages healthy emotional development.
• Educational Support:
• Assist children with homework and educational activities.
• Communicate with teachers, school staff, and caseworkers to support academic progress.
• Promote and encourage educational achievements and attendance.
• Life Skills Development:
• Teach and model appropriate life skills, such as cooking, cleaning, budgeting, and personal hygiene.
• Encourage and support residents in developing independence and self-sufficiency.
• Plan and facilitate recreational and social activities that promote personal growth and development.
• Documentation and Reporting:
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of daily activities, behaviors, and incidents.
• Prepare and submit required documentation, including incident reports, daily logs, and progress notes.
• Ensure confidentiality and compliance with agency policies and regulations.
• Collaboration and Communication:
• Work closely with caseworkers, therapists, and other professionals to coordinate care and services for residents.
• Communicate effectively with children, youth, families, and other stakeholders.
• Participate in team meetings and contribute to the development of individualized care plans.
• Safety and Compliance:
• Ensure that all operations comply with safety standards, regulations, and agency policies.
• Conduct regular safety checks and inspections of the facility.
• Respond to emergencies and crises according to established protocols.

Qualifications

• Education: Associate or equivalent. Some college coursework in social work, psychology, education, or a related field is preferred.
• Experience: Minimum of 2 years of experience working with children or youth in a residential, foster care, or similar setting.
• Skills:
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to manage and de-escalate challenging behaviors.
• Knowledge of child development and trauma-informed care practices.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Proficiency in basic computer skills and documentation.

Competencies

• Empathy and Compassion: Demonstrates understanding and sensitivity to the needs of children and youth.
• Dependability: Reliable and able to maintain a consistent presence in the care setting.
• Problem-Solving: Ability to assess situations, identify challenges, and develop effective solutions.
• Adaptability: Flexible and able to adapt to changing needs and environments.
• Cultural Competence: Respect for and ability to work with individuals from diverse backgrounds.

Working Conditions

• This position may require flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and overnight shifts.
• Work involves physical activities such as standing, walking, and occasional lifting.
• Exposure to various environmental conditions and potential for managing challenging behaviors.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $48,000.00 - $52,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

Ability to Commute:

• Spring Hill, FL 34609 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Spring Hill, FL 34609: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $48,000 - $52,000