Residential Counselor

Residential Counselor/Direct Care Staff

Are you interested in making a difference in the lives of youth in foster care?

Compensation: $20 per hour, after 90 days of employment $21 per hour. If promoted to mental health rehabilitation specialist pay is $23 an hour and lead positions are $25 an hour. Health care plans and retirement plans available.

Employment type: full-time, part time and on-call

Weekdays, Weekends, overnights and on-call shifts available

Job title: residential counselor/direct care staff

Location: the program is located in Lompoc (Vandenberg Village)

Our Healing Center Short Term Residential Therapeutic Program provides services to male youth,12-21 years old, in foster care.

Our program provides a therapeutic and trauma-informed environment that nurtures youth with a history of trauma. Our goal is to improve the youth’s mental health, gain independent living skills, improve school outcomes and work on relationships, in order to return to a home-like environment.

The program is looking for individuals who have a heart for working with youth and desire to transform the lives of the youth, their families and the community.

Learn about the foster care system, expand your skills in mental health treatment and gain strong experience in a small group environment. We are committed to providing outstanding care to youth in foster care.

Enjoy some nice perks, such as family style meals with the youth, snacks and outings.

All you need is the desire to work with the youth, be at least 21 years old, have a valid California driver's license, acceptable driving record, have a clear criminal record and clear a basic physical and tb test. No experience required, we provide initial and ongoing training. 

We will train you to work with the youth and provide on-going development opportunities. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 14 years of experience working with foster youth.

Residential counselors are part of a multidisciplinary team that includes licensed clinical Social Workers, nurses, psychiatrists, therapists, probation officers, children and family services social workers and various community providers.

With guidance from the program administrator Residential Counselor responsibilities and duties include:

• Transporting youth to school, appointments and visits, as needed.

• Ensuring house rules and program expectations are being followed.

• Keeping track of the phase and level system for each youth.

• Responsible for cooking meals for the youth and assisting youth cooking their own meals.

• Planning, coordinating and participating in the lifestyle and recreational activities with the youth to promote positive growth and development.

• Undertake housekeeping and maintenance to create a positive and safe physical environment.

• Other duties as assigned by program administrator or facility manager.