Provide direct support to individuals with psychiatric and behavioral health challenges in residential settings to build independence and quality of life. Duties include administering medication, implementing treatment plans, and assisting with activities of daily living and community integration.
Overview As a Per Diem ACCS Residential Counselor, you will provide direct support to people with psychiatric conditions and behavioral health challenges in a small group residential setting or an individual living arrangement. In your role you will work together with the people we serve, their families, friends, employers, and other support staff to transform their lives by either building independence skills or increasing each person's quality of life. Per Diem ACCS Residential Counselors have a range of duties include administrating medication under the Medication Administration Program (MAP), implementing treatment plans, and assisting people with activities of daily living, such as household chores and cooking. You also strengthen residents' connection to their community by providing transportation on outings such as shopping and doctor's appointments. Current Bonus Program: Beginning January 1, 2026 through June 2026 Employees are eligible for one of the following bonuses based on the number of hours worked. The maximum bonus to be paid in a month is $150. Towns with programs covered by the bonus program are: Andover, Groveland, Haverhill, Lawrence, Methuen.
Bonus applies to all Res Counselor Per Diem staff working at the programs listed below.
$100 bonus for staff working their first 24 direct care shift hours in a month.
$150 bonus for staff working their first 32 direct care shift hours in a month. This program does not apply to training hours completed. This position may be eligible for a differential pay rate depending on assigned work hours, location, area, or division.
Required to work a minimum of 2 direct care shifts per month. Successful applicants will be expected to engage in shifts at a variety of different programs Typical Requirements:One to three months experience in a human services setting. In some cases, experience may be substituted for academic training. Preferred /Required Education:A high school diploma or equivalent is required. Driving Requirements:May be called on to drive for Vinfen using either a Vinfen van or personal vehicle. A valid driver’s license must be presented at the time of employment. Incumbents must be at least 21 years of age, have maintained a valid US driver’s license for at least one year, and must be able to pass a driver’s screening background check, which is subject to annual checks. If driving, must maintain a safe driving record. If using a personal vehicle, must possess and maintain adequate insurance. Physical Effort:Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, stoop, crouch, crawl, climb as this is a very physically active position. Must be able to lift at least 25 pounds using proper lifting techniques or the use of a two-person lift. Ability to operate a computer and other office equipment such as a calculator, copier, and printer. Ability to sit, reach, climb stairs, and maneuver through narrow spaces or hallways. Ability to assist clients with tasks of daily living. Ability to speak, hear, and communicate with clients, staff, and external representatives. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus. For positions in day programs or group residences, the ability to assist in routine living activities including cleaning, meal preparation, vacuuming, shoveling, and grocery shopping. Required Certifications:First Aid is required within two weeks of hireCPR is required within two weeks of hireMAP is required within 150 days of hire Pay Range USD $20.50 - USD $20.50 /Hr.
Requires a high school diploma or equivalent and a valid driver's license. Candidates should have one to three months of human services experience and must obtain First Aid, CPR, and MAP certifications.
Market context
In Massachusetts, behavioral health employers often look for licensed or license-eligible clinicians with experience supporting at-risk youth and families, so demand tends to stay steady for candidates who can work across settings and age groups. These roles can be competitive because employers usually want a master’s degree, a clear licensure path, and practical experience; review the summarized requirements and benefits here, which are AI-summarized from the original job description to save research time, then confirm your licensure status and tailor your application to youth and family work.