Educational Support Counselor (Manchester Academy)

JOB SUMMARY:

 The Educational Support Counselor (ESC) provides guidance, supervision, mentoring, and training to students and individuals across various educational and vocational settings, as well as supports children, adolescents, and young adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and/or Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD). This role ensures the delivery of high-quality, trauma-informed care in a therapeutic, supportive, and person-centered environment. Responsibilities include implementing behavior management strategies, assisting with instructional activities, supporting vocational training, and ensuring a safe and structured environment. This position requires flexibility to work across different settings and locations as needed.

WORK SCHEDULE:

Positions aligned with school-based or transitional programming follow a 219-day schedule (37.5 hours/week) that aligns with the academic calendar. Flexibility is also required for varied shifts, community-based travel, and vocational site coverage. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILTIES:

 •Facilitate the orderly transition of individuals/students between residential programs, academies, and job sites.

• Provide one-on-one and small group academic assistance based on instructional plans and individual needs.

• Implement behavioral intervention plans and monitor progress while ensuring compliance with agency guidelines.

• Assist with the development and execution of individualized education programs (IEPs) and vocational training plans.

• Provide crisis intervention support using approved Physical/Psychological Management Training (PMT) techniques.

• Attend and contribute to team meetings, including Planning and Placement Team (PPT) meetings when required.

• Foster a positive, structured, and therapeutic learning environment that promotes independence and skill development.

• Perform additional duties as assigned by supervisors to support individual and program needs.

• Teach and assist students with activities of daily living (ADLs), including hygiene, meal preparation, and household tasks.

• Guide individuals in developing job skills, interviewing techniques, and professional social behavior.

• Transport individuals to job interviews, work placements, and educational sites as needed.

• Maintain accurate and timely records, including behavioral data, progress reports, and incident reports in the Electronic Health Record (EHR) system.

• Communicate effectively with team members, supervisors, and clinical staff to ensure consistent support for students.

• Participate in staff meetings, training sessions, and treatment planning discussions.

• Follow established procedures for emergencies, illnesses, and crisis situations, including mandatory reporting and documentation.

• Ensure compliance with agency policies, state regulations, and ethical guidelines.

• Secure the facility by performing safety checks, monitoring medication storage, and ensuring proper supervision of students.

• Maintain active certification in agency-approved crisis intervention training, including all required levels of Physical and Psychological Management Training (PMT). Apply training techniques appropriately to ensure the safety and well-being of individuals served, staff, and others in the environment. Demonstrate competency in de-escalation strategies, safe physical interventions, and adherence to agency protocols.

• Perform other related duties as assigned.

SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE, AND ABILITIES:

 SKILLS:

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal

• Active listening and empathy to support students' emotional and academic needs

• Conflict resolution and de-escalation techniques • Organizational and time management skills

• Ability to work collaboratively with students, parents, teachers, and administrators

• Proficient in using counseling tools, student information systems, and relevant educational software

• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information professionally

KNOWLEDGE:

• Understanding of child and adolescent development, including social-emotional learning (SEL) principles

• Knowledge of counseling theories, practices, and ethical guidelines

• Familiarity with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), 504 Plans, and other student support systems

• Awareness of community resources for mental health, family services, and academic support

• Knowledge of behavior management strategies and student support interventions

• Understanding of diversity, equity, and inclusion in educational environments

ABILITIES:

• Ability to assess student needs and provide appropriate counseling interventions

• Ability to develop and implement individual and group counseling plans

• Ability to identify and respond to crises effectively and appropriately

• Ability to advocate for students' educational, social, and emotional well-being

• Ability to maintain detailed records and prepare accurate reports

• Ability to foster a safe, supportive, and inclusive school environment

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND OTHER QUALIFICATIONS:

 • Minimum: High school diploma or equivalent.

• Preferred: Associate or Bachelor’s degree in psychology, social work, criminal justice, educational or a related human services field.

• Experience: At least one year working with individuals with emotional, intellectual, or developmental disabilities preferred.

• Strong behavioral management skills with knowledge of Autism Spectrum Disorders and Behavioral Disorders.

• Ability to work collaboratively with students, staff, families, and multidisciplinary teams.

• Must be flexible to work across various educational, residential, and vocational settings as needed.

• Certification in PMT, CPR, First Aid, and Positive Behavioral Support (training provided by agency)

• Knowledge of trauma-informed care, ASD, and behavior management techniques.

• Strong interpersonal, communication, organizational and problem-solving skills.

• Ability to work flexible schedules, including weekends, evenings, and overnight shifts.

• Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record and maintain passenger endorsement (required for driving positions).

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Work is performed in classroom, job site, and community-based settings.

• Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds and assist with behavioral interventions when required and support individuals with mobility needs.

• Ability to be on feet for extended periods and participate in recreational or community-based activities with residents.

• Frequent travel between locations for student transportation and vocational assignments.

• May require standing, walking, or physical assistance for extended periods.

• Exposure to behaviors requiring de-escalation and intervention is possible.

A job description is not meant to be all inclusive of every task and/or responsibilit