Residential Youth Counselor

Job Description

Job Description

Position Description

SailFuture’s Residential Youth Counselors play a critical role in providing structure, guidance, and emotional support to six teenage boys living in a unique, family-style foster home environment.

This is a live-in position with a 3 to 4-day work week, including complimentary room and board (private, secured bedroom), international travel via sailboat, and a competitive compensation package.

The most meaningful benefit? The opportunity to profoundly impact the future of young men in foster care by helping them develop the tools, mindset, and confidence to succeed.

Mornings begin early with wake-ups, breakfast preparation, and motivational conversations as the boys get ready for school (kids attend our private, off-site high school—SailFuture Academy).

Afternoons include home household projects, experiential learning, and extracurricular activities, while evenings are focused on shared meals, chores, and winding down before bedtime. Lights are typically out by 11:00 PM.

We’re looking for individuals who are passionate about social justice, grounded in empathy, and equipped with strong leadership and communication skills. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment and is committed to helping youth navigate life’s challenges with compassion and resilience.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with mental health, education, and outside support teams to ensure consistency in each youth’s individualized treatment and case plans
• Support youth with job searches, resume building, and employment applications
• Teach and reinforce essential life skills like cooking, laundry, cleaning, and personal organization
• Maintain a safe and functional home environment, including basic maintenance, landscaping, and household organization
• Conduct daily room inspections to promote cleanliness and personal responsibility
• Perform nightly bed checks to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents
• Administer medications in accordance with prescribed plans and maintain accurate medication logs
• Provide transportation for school, appointments, and extracurricular activities as needed
• Consistently implement treatment strategies in collaboration with all departments
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Program Director to support the success of youth in care

Qualifications

• Collaborative team player with a strong commitment to doing whatever it takes to support youth in their care
• Prior experience working with at-risk youth, particularly teenagers, in residential or high-impact environments
• Strong communication skills and the ability to remain calm, solutions-focused, and empathetic in challenging situations
• Passion for adventure, experiential learning, and personal growth
• Sailing experience is a plus, but not required—training is available for the right candidate
• This is a live-in position: you are required to reside on-site during their scheduled shifts but are not required to stay during off-days

Benefits

• $2,141 Max 401k Contribution per year
• $3,000 annual health insurance reimbursement
• $18,000 value: On-site room & board including a furnished private room, utilities & food
• 80 hours PTO
• Access to sailboats and kayaks during time off
• Clearwater Community Sailing Center Membership; includes the use of facility and equipment
• Provisioned phone & cell service
• YMCA Gym Membership