Lead Residential Counselor - Family Shelter Services

Job Overview

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Compensation

Hourly
Range $24.00 - $28.00
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Benefits

Paid Time Off
Paid holidays
Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
Life insurance
flexible spending accounts
Retirement Plan
Employee assistance program
Career development opportunities
Employee Discounts

Job Description

Bill Wilson Center is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing comprehensive services to children, youth, young adults, and families within Santa Clara County. Since 1973, Bill Wilson Center has been a trusted resource, specializing in aiding runaway and homeless youth while extending its reach through street outreach and crisis line programs. The organization’s efforts are focused on four main pillars: housing, mental health care, supportive services, and advocacy. Bill Wilson Center embodies a community-driven philosophy that emphasizes a strength-based approach, empowering youth and families to grow into healthy, self-sufficient adults by providing a continuum of care and support tailored to their unique needs.

Joining Bill Wilson Center means becoming part of a dedicated team committed to making a tangible difference in the lives of vulnerable populations. The organization thrives on collaboration, inclusivity, and a resilient spirit aimed at fostering long-term positive impacts in the community it serves.

The Lead Residential Counselor role at Bill Wilson Center is a vital position within the Family Shelter Services. Reporting directly to the Shelter Manager, the incumbent provides leadership and support to both clients and the Residential Counselor team. As a shift lead, the Lead Residential Counselor oversees daily operations during their assigned shifts—covering day, swing, and overnight periods—to ensure the shelter functions smoothly and meets its commitment to client safety and well-being. This role demands strong interpersonal skills, the ability to manage conflict, and a compassionate approach to community service.

The key responsibilities involve supervising families residing in the shelter, mediating conflicts, advocating for clients within the shelter and external agencies, and ensuring strict adherence to safety protocols. The Lead Residential Counselor provides emotional support to families, guides the Residential Counselor team on shift, and plays a pivotal role in maintaining an environment that is peaceful, secure, and conducive to personal growth.

This full-time position offers a salary range of $24.00 to $28.00 per hour and includes a generous benefits package. The benefits encompass accrued paid time off, paid holidays, health benefits, retirement plans, and career development opportunities, making it a rewarding opportunity for individuals passionate about social service and youth advocacy.

Bill Wilson Center values diversity and is committed to equal opportunity employment, fostering an inclusive workplace where all employees and clients are treated with respect and dignity. This role is ideal for compassionate professionals with experience in social work, psychology, or related fields who are eager to contribute to a meaningful cause through direct client interaction and team leadership.

Job Requirements

  • B.A. in Social Work, Sociology, Psychology, or related field
  • 2+ years of relevant youth and family experience and/or training
  • or 5+ years of field experience or lived experience
  • preferred experience working with homeless clients and in a shelter setting
  • current CPR and First Aid Certification or ability to complete within 30 days of hire
  • valid California driver’s license with access to a personal vehicle with current insurance
  • fingerprinting/background check as required by Department of Justice and/or Title XXII regulations
  • TB test required
  • strong communication skills
  • ability to understand and interpret documents including safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals
  • ability to prepare clear and accurate reports and correspondence
  • ability to work with basic mathematical concepts
  • ability to solve practical problems and address real-world situations
  • ability to understand instructions in multiple formats such as written, verbal, and visual
  • familiarity with internet, spreadsheet, and word processing software

Job Qualifications

  • B.A. in Social Work, Sociology, Psychology, or related field
  • 2+ years of relevant youth and family experience and/or training
  • 5+ years of field experience or lived experience
  • preferred experience working with homeless clients and in a shelter setting
  • strong communication skills
  • bilingual communication skills (English/Spanish or English/Vietnamese) highly valued
  • current CPR and First Aid Certification or ability to complete within 30 days of hire
  • valid California driver’s license with access to a personal vehicle with current insurance
  • ability to prepare clear and accurate reports and correspondence
  • familiarity with internet, spreadsheet, and word processing software
  • flexibility in learning and communication methods

Job Duties

  • Supervise the team on shift
  • be point person for the Residential Counselors on shift and provide support and guidance
  • supervise families residing in the shelter, ensuring adherence to house rules and promoting a peaceful environment
  • respond to resident concerns and mediate conflicts effectively
  • provide emotional support and guidance to families facing stress and challenges
  • assist with daily living tasks as needed, potentially including meal preparation or hygiene routines
  • monitor children’s safety and well-being, adhering to child protection protocols
  • provide supports to clients and monitor client activity during shifts
  • support clients with breakfast, lunch, and dinner while on shift
  • support in preparation and distribution of food, snacks and resources to clients
  • advocate for families within the shelter system and during interactions with external agencies
  • empower families to make informed decisions and take ownership of their goals
  • celebrate families' successes and milestones
  • maintain accurate records of resident interactions, including incidents, concerns, and progress reports
  • support with incident reports and maintain up to date communication amongst leaders from within shifts
  • contribute to case management plans by providing updates on resident behavior and progress
  • enforce safety protocols and maintain a clean and healthy environment within the shelter
  • respond to emergencies and ensure the safety of residents and staff
  • be aware of fire safety procedures and evacuation plans
  • collaborate effectively with case managers, social workers, and other shelter staff to provide holistic support to families
  • be point person for Residential Counselors and provide accurate and effective communication between shift leads, managers and Directors
  • communicate clearly and respectfully with residents, respecting their privacy and confidentiality
  • assist with shelter operations tasks like intake procedures, meal distribution, or activity facilitation
  • attend training opportunities to stay updated on best practices in shelter management and trauma-informed care
  • participate in team meetings and provide feedback on shelter services
  • regular attendance is a requirement of the position
  • participate in agency Program Quality Improvement activities and initiatives
  • other duties as assigned

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