Youth Support Counselor II

LOCATION: Bayshore, NY

REPORTS TO: Program Manager

DEPARTMENT: L.I. Residential Programs

SCHEDULE: Full Time / Onsite

Hiring Bonus: $1,000

Mercy First is a not-for-profit human and social service agency founded by the Sisters of Mercy in 1894. The agency serves children and families in Brooklyn, Queens and Long Island through innovative treatments, community-based prevention, foster care and short-term residential services. Each year, Mercy First serves more than 3,000 children, teenagers and families who overcome obstacles, re‑imagine their futures and develop their full potential.

The specialized group home named Catherine House houses girls, ages 14‑17, who have experienced serious trauma including physical and emotional abuse, neglect and abandonment. In this small group home each youth receives individual attention and focuses on clinical therapies such as art therapy and recreation opportunities in a setting where they can thrive. The goal is to help children heal from the past while learning the skills needed for their future.

Under the supervision of the Program Manager, the Direct Care Worker II supervises clients, provides a safe and secure environment, and applies Agency‑approved behavior modification methods including a point system, verbal de‑escalation techniques and physical intervention if needed. Shifts assigned may vary and change according to Agency needs.

• High School Diploma or equivalent or a bachelor’s degree in a related field.
• 1+ years of experience in residential care with children and/or adolescents.
• Valid driver’s license required.
• Complete attendance records accurately.
• Manage time effectively.
• Must successfully complete all required training.
• Understanding and willingness to commit to the agency’s Mission, core values, and DEIB.

• Maintain a safe and secure environment for our youth.
• Maintain consistent daily routines of the living unit in accordance with Agency policy and treatment plan.
• Supervise clients’ attendance/participation at structured activities.
• Demonstrate knowledge of human development stages.
• Attendance at and implementing recommendations of treatment team.
• Prepare and monitor YSC I work schedule.
• Implement treatment team recommendations.
• Report behaviors believed to be symptomatic or emotional, physical, or psychological disturbances.
• Document clients’ behaviors and activities.
• Safely transport clients to scheduled appointments, recreation events, home visits, and sibling visits.
• Prepare, assist in preparation and/or supervise meals for clients in accordance with dictated menu.
• Observe and document clients’ self‑administering medication.
• Assist clients in learning independent living skills (e.g., basic hygiene, dress, cooking).
• Maintain appropriate boundaries.
• Hire, train, supervise and monitor the performance of assigned staff.
• Review daily logs, accident reports, incident reports, etc.
• Complete payroll tasks in a timely manner.
• Implement and monitor all residents’ behavior management programs, residents’ allowance and savings, and unit expenses.
• Maintain appropriate boundaries.

• Comprehensive health insurance package including medical, dental and vision plans for you and your family.
• 403B retirement benefits.
• Employer‑paid life insurance and long‑term disability insurance.
• Generous paid time off (vacation, personal, sick, 12 paid holidays).
• Free employee assistance program through National EAP.
• Insurance discounts for staff and their families.
• Trainings to support professional and personal development.
• Employee wellness program.
• Employee recognition activities.

Salary Rate: $22/hour
Hiring bonus of $1,000 after 500 worked hours

Mercy First is an inclusive, anti‑racist, multicultural organization and an Equal Opportunity Employer who welcomes prospective employees from diverse backgrounds at all levels. We strive for a workforce that is reflective of the communities we serve and do not discriminate on the basis of protected characteristics as required by federal, state and local law.