Residential Counselor

MOC’s mission is to empower families to achieve economic security by eliminating barriers and creating opportunities. To alleviate poverty, we deliver a variety of services including childcare, education, workforce development, nutrition, health, and community and housing support.

Residential Counselors play a vital role in supporting individuals and families in a congregate emergency shelter. They provide direct, hands‑on support that fosters life skills, stability, and personal growth. Through a trauma‑informed, client‑centered approach, they help ensure the shelter operates smoothly and safely. Key responsibilities include conducting intakes, orienting new residents, and clearly communicating shelter policies, schedules, and expectations. Counselors maintain a safe, welcoming environment by upholding safety protocols, enforcing rules, and ensuring structure within a 24/7 facility.

They also perform light housekeeping, complete shift duties on time, and offer compassionate crisis support when needed. This role is essential in creating a respectful, supportive space where all residents feel seen, safe, and empowered.

• Provide case management support to families in coordination with the site team that supports barrier reduction.
• Communicate and enforce rules and regulations to ensure smooth operation of the site.
• Respond effectively to emergency situations, document appropriately and communicate according to the established guidelines.
• Complete intake process and support the transfer, separation or termination of an EA family.
• Provide support and structure, being attentive to guest/resident/visitor problems or concerns.
• Initiate crisis intervention when necessary.
• Record documentation as required by program guidelines including but not limited to shift logs, reports, and compliance documents.
• Required to attend and actively participate in meetings and training as requested.
• Monitor security cameras, complete building rounds and ensure the facility is secure.
• Provide light housekeeping duties that support the cleanliness and maintenance of the site.
• Follows established procedures related to scheduling and staffing issues.
• Communicate concerns regarding behaviors, health and safety to appropriate staff/personnel.
• Monitor entry to site and communications with the upmost professionalism.
• Maintain privacy of resident/guest information in accordance with agency policies, procedures and practices and as required by law.
• Complete all shift tasks according to program guidelines.
• Complete inspections as required by guidelines.
• Other duties as assigned by program manager/director.

• High School Diploma or equivalent required
• 3 year previous experience working with individuals in need of social services (preferably low income individuals) strongly preferred
• Ability to follow shelter guidelines on safety, handling emergencies, etc.
• Ability to communicate effectively in English both verbally and in writing
• Excellent customer service, organizational, interpersonal, oral and written communication skills
• Proficient computer skills required in basic computer software and data collection

• Ability to move throughout the facility to conduct regular rounds and room checks, including at locations with stair‑only access
• Must be able to ascend and descend multiple flights of stairs regularly
• Ability to move safely throughout worksites for extended periods of time during a shift
• Ability to bend, kneel, crouch, and reach as needed to perform room inspections, support shelter operations, and respond to client needs
• Ability to lift and carry up to 30 pounds
• Must be able to perform tasks that involve physical movement, such as setting up rooms, moving light furniture, or supporting emergency protocols
• Visual and auditory acuity sufficient to monitor client activity and ensure a safe shelter environment
• Ability to respond quickly in emergencies, including the ability to move swiftly throughout the building

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or…