Youth Residential Counselor

Job Description

Job Description

The Overnight Youth Residential Counselor provides leadership and oversight of daily residential operations, youth supervision, and facility documentation in compliance with New Haven and Community Care Licensing (CCL) standards. This position supports a safe, structured, and therapeutic residential environment for boys ages 8–18, promotes positive behavior and life skills development, and ensures effective response to youth needs and crises.

Responsibilities:

• Provide direct supervision and support to boys ages 8–18, maintaining a safe, therapeutic, and structured residential environment using positive discipline, professional boundaries, behavior modification, and crisis intervention techniques.
• Support implementation and monitoring of program schedules, daily routines, and individualized treatment plans in alignment with Milieu Treatment Program standards.
• Observe, assess, and respond to behavioral concerns and crisis situations while encouraging appropriate living habits, problem-solving, and emotional regulation.
• Oversee and maintain accurate facility documentation, including house logs, reports, petty cash, inventories, and end-of-month documentation in accordance with licensing and organizational requirements.
• Ensure residential property, supplies, and vehicles are maintained and documented in compliance with agency standards and Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) protocols.
• Assist the Program Supervisor in maintaining compliance with Community Care Licensing, safety regulations, and HIPAA requirements, including conducting regular house audits.
• Provide leadership and guidance to residential staff by modeling professional behavior, reinforcing program expectations, and supporting team direction.
• Participate in house meetings, staff meetings, and required trainings; maintain current certifications and demonstrate ongoing competency in required skills, including Pro-ACT.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in a behavioral science or related field preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience working in a residential setting with youth.
• Minimum of 3 years of supervisory or lead experience in a residential youth care setting.
• Demonstrated competency in crisis intervention, emergency procedures, and Pro-ACT or equivalent training.
• Strong understanding of trauma-informed care and Turn-Around Teaching/Counseling principles.
• Excellent written communication skills with the ability to complete accurate, timely, and compliant documentation.
• Strong verbal communication, organizational, and basic computer skills.
• Ability to lead staff, collaborate with supervisors, follow policies, accept feedback, and maintain professionalism under stress.
• Reliable attendance and punctuality required.

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

New Haven Youth and Family Services is an EOE F/M/Disabled/Vet