Residential Youth or Young Adult Counselor

Be the Steady Presence That Helps a Young Adult Build Their Future 

The Opportunity 

Our Independent Living program provides transitional housing and intensive support for young adults aging out of state custody — helping them build the skills, confidence, and stability they need to live independently and thrive in their communities. 

Of all the staff at Monroe Harding, this role spends the most time with our young adults. That's not a small thing — it's the whole point. You are the consistent presence, the steady voice, and the trusted adult in a young person's life at a moment when consistency and trust may be entirely new to them. 

This is a 2nd shift position — Tuesday through Saturday, 3:00pm to 11:00pm — and it requires someone who brings energy, empathy, and a deep commitment to showing up for people who haven't always had someone in their corner. 

This isn't a job where you sit behind a desk. You'll be in the houses, in the kitchen, at the grocery store, and in the conversation — coaching young adults through the real-life skills that most people learned growing up and that our residents are learning now. 

Daily Coaching & Life Skills 

• Facilitate daily life skills conversations and structured activities covering budgeting, cooking, employment, safety, decision-making, peer relationships, and more 
• Guide young adults through meal planning, grocery shopping, and cooking — making it engaging, practical, and even fun 
• Coach household management skills including deep cleaning, organization, and caring for their living space 
• Assist with medication management and coach young adults toward self-sufficiency in managing their own health needs 
• Support employment goals in partnership with Monroe Harding's Employment Coordinator — from resume building to navigating tough workplace situations 

Residential Support 

• Conduct routine property checks across all Independent Living locations each shift 
• Prepare rooms for incoming residents — fully cleaned, welcoming, and ready 
• Orient new residents to their home, their community, and their housemates 
• Issue and inventory supplies, track Monroe Harding property, and flag maintenance needs promptly 
• Ensure all properties are secure, clean, and safe at the close of each shift 

Relationship & Community 

• Build genuine, trusting relationships with young adults — being curious about their experiences before expecting compliance 
• Support family engagement where appropriate, helping strengthen relationships and encourage positive connections 
• Engage in monthly community service alongside young adults 
• Create and maintain a monthly calendar of activities that is informative, fun, and meaningful 

Documentation & Compliance 

• Complete accurate, timely daily documentation in Monroe Harding's database 
• Document behavioral incidents professionally and appropriately 
• Read communication logs and emails at the start of every shift 
• Observe COA, DCS Licensing Standards, and all applicable regulatory requirements 
• Participate in safety drills and ensure all residents are prepared for emergencies 

What We're Looking For

• The right candidate for this role isn't defined solely by their resume. We're looking for someone who: 
• Views young adult behavior through a trauma lens — asking "what happened to them?" rather than labeling or judging 
• Refuses to give up on a young person, even when it's hard 
• Can hold healthy boundaries while still being warm, fun, and genuinely present 
• Stays calm and grounded in high-pressure or crisis situations 
• Celebrates small wins as if they're big ones — because for these young adults, they often are 
• Models self-awareness and emotional regulation every single shift 
• Communicates effectively in person, in writing, and through electronic documentation 
• Works collaboratively as part of a cross-functional treatment team 

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or substantial related work experience 
• Valid Tennessee Driver's License 
• Willingness to engage in 40 hours of orientation training and 30+ hours of additional training in year one 
• Trauma-informed care experience or strong willingness to learn 

Compensation & Benefits 

• Pay starts at $18.50 and up, based on experience 
• Health, Dental, and Vision insurance 
• Retirement plan 
• Paid Time Off 
• 40 hours orientation training + 30 hours additional training in year one, 24 hours annually thereafter 
• Tuesday–Saturday, 3:00pm –11:00pm schedule