Residential Youth Counselor

Job DetailsJob Location: CYFS Offices - Beckley Hill and New Leaf - Barre, VT 05641Salary Range: $25.26 - $26.55 HourlyJob Shift: AnyJob Category: Direct ServiceResidential Youth Counselor

The Residential Youth Counselor will play a key role in supporting at-risk youth in diverse settings including the community, home, and school. This position provides an opportunity to help youth build essential life skills, develop coping strategies, and work toward personal goals in a structured, supportive environment.

Summary of Duties

Providing mentorship and emotional support to youth experiencing emotional and behavioral challenges.
Deliver direct support and counseling to residents, cultivating a positive encouraging atmosphere that promotes growth.
Implementing individualized behavior plans and supporting residents with daily living skills.
Creating a safe and nurturing environment through active listening, crisis de-escalation techniques, and proactive interventions.
Engaging youth in recreational and skill-building activities, such as sports, arts & crafts, outdoor excursions, and community outings.
Documenting progress and communicating with care teams to ensure that each youth receives personalized, effective support.

Compensation and Benefits

WCMHS provides a comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision, and a generous retirement plan match. Our paid time off package is industry-leading and includes 12.5 flexible paid holidays, 12 paid sick days, and 12 vacation days accrued in your first year of employment.

The starting pay rate for this position is $25.26-$26.55 per hour. This position works in locations with round the clock, 365-day coverage needs. Shift differentials are available.
QualificationsSummary of Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent required
Bachelor's degree or college coursework in psychology, education, or related preferred
One year of experience in behavioral health, education, residential programs, or a related field preferred
Ability to learn and perform crisis intervention and physical intervention techniques
Compassionate, respectful, and empathetic nature, especially regarding individuals with behavioral or emotional challenges
Strong communication and collaboration skills to work effectively with youth, families, and care teams
Demonstrated ability to remain calm and adaptable in stressful or high-pressure situations
Valid driver's license, a clean driving record, and work-hours access to a safe, inspected, and insured vehicle
Ability to deliver services and complete treatment notes in English

Work Conditions

Work occurs in home, school, and community settings. Frequent transportation of clients, in one's own vehicle if no agency-owned vehicles are available. Physical restraint of clients may be necessary, within guidance and training from program leadership. May need to lift up to 50lbs. 

About the Agency

For more than 50 years, Washington County Mental Health Services (WCMHS) has served the Washington County community and the Orange County towns of Orange, Washington, and Williamstown. WCMHS provides education, support, and treatment to individuals and families living with mental health challenges, substance use issues, and developmental and intellectual disabilities. Providing accessible, high-quality services in the community, schools, and health care settings, we work toward positive outcomes for wellness with collaborative, inclusive, and compassionate care. Washington County Mental Health Services is “Where Hope and Support Come Together.”

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