Position Summary
Working within the Mission, Vision and Values of Tamir, the Residential Counsellor supports individuals to achieve their personal goals, maintain their health and well-being, and develop skills through individualized, person-centered supports.
Under the general supervision of the Program Supervisor, the Residential Counsellor provides daily support to individuals at home and in the community. All work is carried out in accordance with organizational policies, quality standards, safety requirements, and a person-centred approach.
Principal Responsibilities and Duties
Duties are carried out to varying degrees based on each individual’s abilities, needs, and goals. This role does not involve oversight of case management; instead, it supports the implementation of plans rather than leading them.
- Build respectful, positive, and consistent relationships with individuals
- Learn each individual’s needs, preferences, and goals and apply this knowledge in daily support
- Promote physical and mental health and maintain a safe home environment
- Assist with personal care (nutrition, hygiene, grooming, clothing, etc.)
- Administer medications and treatments as per policy
- Support participation in cultural, religious, and community activities
- Encourage choice, independence, and decision-making
- Support individuals in recreational, educational, and community activities
- Facilitate social connections and inclusion
- Maintain communication with families, team members, and service providers as appropriate
- Assist with personal finances as required and per policy
Support Plan Implementation
- Follow and implement Personal Outcome Plans (POPs)
- Provide input and observations to the Primary Counsellor and Supervisor
- Support goal tracking and progress through daily interactions
- Maintain familiarity with and comply with Tamir policies, procedures, and health and safety standards.
- Maintain accurate, complete, and confidential individual records.
- Maintain appropriate and required documentation for all areas of responsibility, according to Tamir’s established policies and procedures in a timely and accurate manner. For example (e.g., daily sharevision logs, incident reports, critical updates, financial records and other required forms)
- Report unsafe conditions, hazards, accidents, or incidents to the Program Supervisor.
- Perform other administrative duties as assigned.
- Assist with the orientation and training of staff and volunteers, as required.
- Maintain all mandatory training, certifications, and required checks in a timely manner.
- Participate in staff meetings and committees, as assigned.
- Demonstrate respect for Jewish culture and values, as well as Tamir’s mission and vision, in the workplace and community.
- Maintain positive, respectful, and professional relationships with participants, families, colleagues, volunteers, and community partners.
- Actively contribute to team meetings through planning, and problem-solving.
- Contribute to a positive work environment through effective communication, sound judgment, initiative, and teamwork.
- Demonstrate reliability, punctuality, and accountability in completing assigned duties.
- Participate in ongoing professional development, with supervisor approval, to maintain and enhance skills and the quality of support provided.
Other Responsibilities
This job description reflects the general scope and level of work expected. It is not an exhaustive list of duties. Staff may be required to perform other related duties as needed to meet individual and program needs.
Working Conditions
Staff will be required to:
- Support individuals with emotional, psychological, and physical support needs
- Work and be exposed to communicable or contagious illnesses
- Perform household tasks requiring lifting, bending, pushing, pulling, or twisting
- Assist with lifting, moving, or transferring individuals who require mobility support
- Operate a vehicle as part of job duties
Qualifications
Education and Experience (one of the following or equivalent):
- Developmental Services Worker (DSW) diploma and at least one (1) year of relevant experience, or
- Degree/Diploma in Social Sciences, Health, or a related field and at least two (2) years of relevant experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities or
- High school diploma with at least four (4) years of relevant experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities.
Certifications / Requirements
- Valid G driver’s license with acceptable driving record
- Current CPR and First Aid certification
- Ability to use electronic documentation systems and standard office software
Skills and Competencies
- Strong communication (oral and written) skills
- Strong interpersonal and teamwork skills
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Good judgment, organization, and time-management skill
