Relief Counselor

Department:
Residential Classification:
Hourly/Non-Exempt

Reports To:

Program Director

Position Overview The Relief Counselor provides per diem coverage (up to 34 hours per week) for various departments within the Charles River Center (CRC).

Responsibilities include:

Implementing Individual Support Plans (ISPs)
Providing direct care and supervision

Assisting with daily activities

Ensuring compliance with CRC policies and procedures

This role follows the principles of normalization and community inclusion, ensuring that individuals receive high-quality, person-centered care in a supportive environment.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities Direct Care & Individual Support Provide per diem coverage across CRC homes as scheduled.

Implement and review Individual Support Plans (ISPs) assigned by the Program Director.

Provide direct support, instruction, and supervision, including:

Personal care (hygiene, dressing, meal preparation)
Social skills and education

Travel training and telephone usage

Managing personal funds and assisting with purchases

Encouraging participation in religious, social, and leisure activities

Advocate for human and legal rights of individuals served.

Assist with household maintenance, grocery shopping, and errands while promoting resident participation.

Maintain a clean, safe, and welcoming home environment.

Foster community inclusion by coordinating meaningful activities based on individual preferences.

Behavioral & Safety Support Utilize Positive Behavioral Supports to reinforce positive behaviors and minimize challenges.

Assist residents in adhering to House Rules for their assigned home.

Provide overnight supervision, ensuring individuals’ health and safety at all times.

Remain awake and alert during overnight  prepared to stay beyond scheduled shifts in emergencies (e.g., inclement weather, lack of relief coverage).Transportation & Record-Keeping Transport individuals to appointments, community activities, and events as assigned.

Maintain accurate and timely record-keeping on:

Individual progress and behavior

Financial transactions for individuals and house funds

House operations and daily activities

Communicate concerns, issues, and program updates to Program Directors.

Training & Compliance Attend mandatory in-service trainings, meetings, and certification programs.

Maintain up-to-date knowledge on CRC policies, safety protocols, and program expectations.

Ensure compliance with agency and state regulations for residential services.

Required Skills & Competencies Interpersonal & Communication Skills Ability to interact in a professional, respectful, and supportive manner with individuals, staff, and families.

Strong oral and written communication skills for reporting and documentation.

Effective teamwork and collaboration with coworkers and management.

Active listening and ability to assimilate feedback for continuous improvement.

Reliability & Problem-Solving Strong dependability—punctual and consistent in following through on responsibilities.

Ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize effectively, and adapt to changing conditions.

Self-driven with strong initiative and problem-solving skills.

Work Ethic & Professionalism Adheres to company policies and procedures, setting a positive example for others.

Maintains a high standard of responsibility and accountability.

Demonstrates strong organizational and planning skills to complete tasks efficiently.

Enrolled in or completed a degree program in Human Services (or equivalent experience).Knowledge of:

Principles of Normalization & Community Inclusion Positive Behavioral Supports (PBS)
Restraint and PAB (Physical Assistance and Behavioral) techniques

Valid Massachusetts Driver’s License required.

Certification Requirements (Must be obtained and…