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  • Children's Residential Care Counselor I

    Santa Rosa, California United States Sonoma County, CA Full Time $70,022.88 - $85,112.75 Annually Nov 13, 2025
    County of Sonoma Employer:

    Sonoma County, CA

    Room to Move. Room to Grow. Diverse services. Various options. Build your career with the County of Sonoma. Our County's mission is to provide superior and courteous services to support, preserve, and enhance the health, safety and quality of life for the people of Sonoma County. Explore Your Career: As the region’s largest employer, the County of Sonoma offers you a level of career diversity that is as expansive as the county itself. From nursing to engineering, information technology to land management and everything in-between, we’ve got over 800 different opportunities waiting for you. But even more than just opportunity, we give you flexibility. Follow your dreams of working at the top. Or follow your interests and work where you want. Either way, you can have it all here. Explore Your Life: With over 1,600 square miles of rolling hills and staggering coastline, you could spend a lifetime exploring everything that Sonoma County has to offer. Whether you explore wineries and epicurean delights, or our uncharted expanses of backcountry wilderness, our 300 plus days of sunshine will provide the perfect setting for the lifestyle you’ve always wanted.      

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    Job Description

    Position Information

    Make a difference in a child's life.
    Join us at Valley of the Moon Children's Center as a Children's Residential Care Counselor I!

    This is an excellent opportunity to serve our community's youth and work with some of Sonoma County's finest trauma-informed youth counselors.

    Starting salary up to $40.78/hour ($85,112/year) plus a competitive total compensation package!*

    This recruitment is currently being conducted to fill a Full-Time Children's Residential Care Counselor I position at the Valley of the Moon Children's Center (VMCC). The Human Services Department (HSD) is also running a concurrent continuous recruitment to hire multiple Extra-Help Children's Residential Care Counselor I positions. If you are interested in being considered for Extra-Help positions, you must apply to the separate Extra-Help recruitment currently being conducted.

    As a Children's Residential Care Counselor I, you will carry out the mission of the Department by providing trauma-informed care services to youth in the day-to-day operations of one of the assigned residential programs at VMCC. This includes direct supervision of youth to ensure their safety and well-being, as well as monitoring and implementing strategies for program participation, engagement, and setting limits. Additional responsibilities include:
      ◦ Participating in Multi-Disciplinary Team meetings to provide feedback on youth behaviors, engagement, and progress towards goals
      ◦ Providing positive and nurturing experiences to children and youth, while maintaining care and supervision
      ◦ Teaching, coaching, and providing feedback to youth to help them develop a self-regulation skill set
      ◦ Providing transportation to and from school and coordinating recreational activities
      ◦ Documenting youth participation in activities, as well as their strengths, challenges, behaviors, interactions, and application of therapeutic skills
      ◦ Counseling youth to help minimize the trauma associated with separation from family members and/or guardians
      ◦ Planning and implementing small and large group activities, study support, and field trip activities
      ◦ Providing coaching, mentoring, and teaching of life skills, social skills, and coping mechanisms using established Trauma-Informed Care methods
      ◦ Utilizing Therapeutic Crisis Intervention techniques to de-escalate youth in acute crisis and to restrain them, when appropriate, for the safety and protection of themselves and others
      ◦ Administering medication to individual children per written instruction from medical providers
      ◦ Building relationships with a variety of youth and their caregivers as they transition out of VMCC
      ◦ Performing minor clerical duties and tasks to help maintain facility cleanliness and general order

    The ideal candidate will possess many of the following:
      ◦ Multiple years of experience working in a youth residential program, wilderness program/camp, or other environment, requiring strong supervisory facilitation skills, interactive support, and coaching
      ◦ A strong youth development and experiential learning background
      ◦ Experience in Trauma-Informed Care practices and working with youth who have experienced significant trauma
      ◦ The ability to team with others in a meaningful and impactful way
      ◦ Education, knowledge, and experience in Secondary Trauma and its impact
      ◦ An understanding of the impact trauma has on children’s mental health as well as brain development
      ◦ The ability to develop positive connections with youth while utilizing role-model, problem-solving, and conflict resolution practices
      ◦ An aptitude for monitoring and intervening in high-risk behaviors, handling crises, and providing consistency and behavioral limits through relationship-based interventions
      ◦ An understanding of Cultural Competence and diversity
      ◦ Expertise in teaching and modeling the Department's mission, vision, and values
      ◦ Strong verbal and written communication skills
      ◦ The ability to problem-solve and/or negotiate in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
      ◦ Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Word, Outlook, and Excel

    Please Note: VMCC operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, therefore the ability to work evenings and weekend hours is required. Applicants must be willing to undergo a thorough background investigation, psychological evaluation, fingerprinting, criminal history, and a medical and physical abilities examination prior to employment.

    About Valley of the Moon Children’s Center Residential Programs

    The Valley of the Moon Children’s Center is a resource hub for caregivers of foster youth and houses two residential programs; a 24-hour emergency shelter and a Short-Term Residential Therapeutic Program (STRTP). The STRTP is an intensive, residential therapeutic treatment services program designed to meet the behavioral and mental health needs of foster youth. The Emergency Shelter provides a stable, supportive, and nurturing environment for youth who have been separated from their families due to abandonment, abuse, or neglect. For more information regarding VMCC services please visit: Here .

    About the Human Services Department (HSD)

    As the largest agency in Sonoma County government, the Human Services Department’s mission is to build upon strengths, as we bridge clients to opportunities through responsive safety-net services. We work to protect vulnerable children and adults, to help people rise above poverty and thrive in our community, and to promote maximum independence and well-being for individuals and families. HSD is responsible for child and adult protective services, veteran services, and administration of state and federal programs, including CalFRESH, CalWORKs, Medi-Cal, and In-Home Supportive Services. The department is dedicated to providing responsive, client-focused services so that all in our community can live freely chosen lives up to their full potential throughout their lifespan. The core values that drive our work are dignity, humility, integrity, responsiveness, partnership, and belonging.

    HSD fosters a positive work environment, where our commitment to providing opportunities for advancement is strengthened by a robust staff development program. We believe in the merits of work/life balance and enjoy the satisfaction of knowing that our work contributes to the betterment of our community.

    The Department works collaboratively at the federal, state, and local levels to find creative solutions to support the well-being of individuals, families, and the community. To meet that goal, the department has fostered strong relationships with other public and private sector partners, including other government agencies, community-based organizations, and business leaders. For more information regarding HSD's services please visit http://sonomacounty.ca.gov/Human-Services .

    What We Offer

    Working at the County of Sonoma offers expansive opportunities for growth and development, the ability to be a part of a challenging and rewarding work environment, and the satisfaction of knowing your contributions work to better our shared community. You can also look forward to flexible work arrangements and excellent benefits* including:
      ◦ Salary Advancement - A salary increase after 1,040 hours (6 months when working full-time) for good work performance; eligibility for a salary increase for good performance every year thereafter, until reaching the top of the salary range
      ◦ Paid Time Off - Competitive vacation and sick leave accruals, 12 paid holidays, and an additional 8 floating holiday hours per year
      ◦ County Paid Health Premium Contributions - 100% premium contribution for the majority of employee-only and employee + family health plan options
      ◦ Post-Retirement Health Reimbursement Arrangement - County contributions to help fund post-retirement employee health insurance/benefits
      ◦ Retirement - A pension fully integrated with Social Security
      ◦ Paid Parental Leave - May be eligible for up to 8 weeks (320 hours) after 12 months of County employment
      ◦ Additional Benefits - Excellent dental, vision, disability, life insurance, employee assistance program, professional development, and more
      ◦ Student Loan Debt Relief - County employees may be eligible for Public Service Loan Forgiveness through the U.S. Department of Education

    *Salary is negotiable within the established range. Benefits described herein do not represent a contract and may be changed without notice. Additional information can found in the Sonoma County Law Enforcement Association's Memorandum Of Understanding (SCLEA MOU) and our Employee Benefits Directory .

    This employment list may also be used to fill future full-time, part-time, or extra-help (temporary) positions as they occur during the active status of the list. Qualified County employees who wish to be considered for future positions should consider applying to this recruitment.

    Application submissions require the Supplemental Questionnaire to be completed.

    Minimum Qualifications

    Experience: Experience as a group or youth counselor or other experience related to working with children or youths would provide an opportunity to acquire the knowledge and abilities listed.

    Education: Completion of sixty semester units at an accredited college with at least nine semester units in child development, sociology, behavioral and social psychology, social casework, social welfare, counseling and guidance, child psychology or a closely related field in behavioral science would provide an opportunity to acquire the knowledge and abilities listed.

    Two years of full-time experience in a position equivalent to the level of Counselor I with Sonoma County may be substituted for thirty semester units of coursework.

    License: Possession of a valid driver’s license at the appropriate level including special endorsements, as required by the State of California, may be required depending upon assignment to perform the essential job functions of the position.

    The position advertised on this announcement requires possession of a valid California Driver’s License.

    Additional Requirements: Candidates certified for employment must be willing to undergo and successfully complete an in-depth background investigation, including a psychological evaluation, finger printing, criminal history check and a medical examination.

    *Specification History

    12/24 revisions limited to person-first, gender-neutral language

    Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

    Knowledge of: sociology, behavioral and social psychology; social casework, social welfare, counseling and guidance, child development, behavioral and related sciences; relationship to personality development, behavior patterns, motivation and group and family dynamics; psychological, sociological, behavioral cultural factors and child development as they relate to dealing with children who are dependent, abused, or neglected; typical child and youth behavior patterns and methods of guidance, counseling and modification of behavioral patterns.

    Learns working knowledge of child care services; daily care and nurturing of infants, young children and youth; personal hygiene, grooming; the ability to teach hygiene techniques to children; record keeping; departmental policy, regulations and functions; first aid and CPR; child abuse reporting laws; recreational activities for children and youth; food preparation and service. The Valley of the Moon Children’s Home uses a specific method of interacting with children. Staff is expected to learn and use the prescribed method.

    Ability to: effectively communicate orally and in writing, and to listen actively; read and comprehend instructions and standards and apply them to a variety of situations; make and record detailed observations. Write descriptive narratives, including incident or observation reports. Relate to a wide variety of individuals from varied socio-economic, cultural and ethnic backgrounds and experiences. Establish and maintain appropriate relationships with children and youths. Establish and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers, supervisors, health and social service providers, parents, volunteers, foster parents, guardians, and family, law enforcement agencies, other County Departments and the public.

    Learns to guide, teach and supervise children and youths; apply basic first aid; bathe, dress, feed and provide recreation where appropriate for infants, children and youths; perform light janitorial and maintenance tasks; direct groups of children and youths during work, meal and leisure time activities; manage aggressive behavior; restrain children for the safety and protection of themselves and others. Supervise children while in a school setting, working in collaboration with school staff to help children achieve their current educational goals. Work different shifts, weekends and holidays.

    Selection Procedure & Some Helpful Tips When Applying

      ◦ Your application information and your responses to the supplemental questions are evaluated and taken into consideration throughout the entire selection process.
      ◦ You should list all employers and positions held within the last ten years in the work history section of your application. Be as thorough as possible when responding to the supplemental questions.
      ◦ You may include history beyond ten years if related to the position for which you are applying. If you held multiple positions with one employer, list out each position separately.
      ◦ Failure to follow these instructions may impact your competitiveness in this process or may result in disqualification.

    Please visit Getting a Job with the County of Sonoma to review more detailed information about the hiring process, including the application process, examination steps, and department selection process.

    Application submissions require the Supplemental Questionnaire be completed.

    Responses to supplemental questions will or may be scored using position-specific criteria. Please provide specific and detailed responses of a reasonable length to allow for a thorough assessment of your qualifications. Responses that state, "See Resume" or "See Application" may be considered insufficient and therefore may not be scored.

    The selection procedure will consist of the following examination:

    An Application and Supplemental Questionnaire Appraisal Examination (weight 100%) will be conducted to evaluate each applicant's application and supplemental questionnaire for satisfaction of minimum qualifications (pass/not pass); and for educational coursework, training, experience, knowledge, and abilities which relate to this position. Personally identifiable information (PII) is removed from the standard application fields and applicable attachments. This PII blind screening practice redacts a candidate’s personal information that could potentially influence or bias the scoring process. Personal information includes the applicant’s name, former last name, address, phone number, email, driver's license number, school name, education start and end dates, age, date of birth, gender, and race. This PII blind screening practice helps contribute to a fair and equitable examination process.

    Each applicant will be evaluated based on the following criteria:
      ◦ Relevance of work history, related experience, and achieved level of education and/or training as described in the application and responses to the supplemental questions.

    Candidates demonstrating possession of the minimum qualifications will be placed on an employment list in order of most qualified to least qualified based on the achieved score received in the Application and Supplemental Questionnaire Appraisal Examination which evaluates the education, training, experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, and other qualifications that you demonstrate in your application and/or response to the supplemental questionnaire. Please be aware that resumes and cover letters are not typically evaluated in the Application and Supplemental Questionnaire Appraisal Examination. Scores may be adjusted based on such factors as the number of candidates, anticipated vacancies, past practice, and natural breaks in the scores achieved by this group of candidates.

    Additional Information

     A background investigation is required prior to employment. Candidates referred to departments for a selection interview are typically required to sign authorization and release forms enabling such an investigation. Failure to sign prescribed forms will result in the candidate not being considered further for that vacancy. Reference information will not be made available to applicants.

    Additional requirements, such as successful completion of a physical exam, drug screen, etc., may apply, depending on the duties and responsibilities of the position. If you receive a conditional job offer for the position, the requirements upon which the offer is contingent will be outlined in the conditional job letter. You may also review the Job Classification Screening Schedule to determine the requirements for this position.

    How To Apply

    Applications are accepted online at: www.yourpath2sonomacounty.org . Paper applications may be submitted by person, fax (707-565-3770), email, or through the mail. All applications and appropriate supplemental information as outlined in the job bulletin must be RECEIVED by the time and date specified on the first page of this job announcement. Applications received after the recruitment closes will not be accepted.

    The County of Sonoma values diversity and is dedicated to creating a workplace environment that provides individuals with a sense of belonging. We are committed to having a diverse workforce that is representative of the communities we serve. The County is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer where all aspects of employment are based on merit, competence, performance, and business need.

    HR Analyst: EP
    HR Tech: VH

    Important Note: Benefits described herein do not apply to Extra Help positions.

    County of Sonoma Benefits:*

    These are some of the excellent benefits the County offers:

    Paid Time Off: Competitive vacation accrual and sick leave accruals; additional management leave annually; 12 paid holidays; and may be eligible for up to 8 weeks (320 hours) of Paid Parental Leave after 12 months of County employment.

    Health Plan: Choose from nine health plans (three HMOs, three deductible HMOs, and three HSA-qualifying plans) with a generous County contribution to the premium (the contribution amount varies by bargaining unit). For more information, please see the appropriate MOU.

    Retirement: Fully integrated with Social Security. For more information regarding eligibility, retirement contributions, and reciprocity with prior public service, please visit https://scretire.org/active-/-deferred/when-you-are-hired .

    IRS 457 Plan: Pre-tax employee contribution up to the IRS annual maximum.

    Retiree Medical: County contribution to a Health Reimbursement Arrangement to help fund post-retirement employee health insurance/benefits.

    Student Loan Debt Relief: County employees may be eligible for Public Service Loan Forgiveness through the U.S. Department of Education.

    Plus, excellent dental, vision, disability, life insurance, professional development, and more.

    For answers to specific questions regarding the employment process and more details about benefits or retirement, please contact Human Resources at (707) 565-2331. Additional details about benefit and compensation packages can be found in the MOUs located at Labor Agreements & Salary Resolution . For specific information about health and welfare benefits, including plan options, coverage, and premium amounts, go to Human Resources or contact the Human Resources' Risk Management-Benefits Office at benefits@sonomacounty.gov or (707) 565-2900.

    *Important Notes: Benefits described herein do not represent a contract and may be changed without notice.

    Closing Date/Time: 12/1/2025 11:59 PM Pacific
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    Please mention you found this employment opportunity on the CareersInGovernment.com job board.

LATEST JOBS

Government Social Service Jobs: Roles, Skills, & Opportunities

Government Social Service Jobs: Roles, Skills, & Opportunities

Are you searching for a stable career that allows you to make a difference in your community? Government social service jobs offer many opportunities to help improve lives and support public welfare. Whether you’re interested in working with families, veterans, children, or individuals with disabilities, government roles provide meaningful work with long-term employment security.

This guide will explain the key roles in government social services, the qualifications you’ll need, and how to get started on this fulfilling career path.

 

Key Types of Government Social Service Jobs

Government social services span a variety of roles, allowing you to focus on areas that align with your passion and expertise. Here are some of the most common positions you can pursue:

Social Workers:

Social workers are critical in supporting individuals and families facing social, health, or emotional challenges. They conduct assessments, develop treatment plans, and connect clients with vital resources. Social workers can specialize in child welfare, mental health, or healthcare, and many roles are available in agencies like the Veterans Affairs and state departments of human services.

Child Welfare Specialists:

These professionals protect children from abuse and neglect while supporting families in crisis. They are often responsible for investigating reports of child abuse and working toward family reunification when possible. Child welfare specialists may work in foster care, adoption services, and family preservation programs.

Community Outreach Coordinators:

Coordinators bridge the gap between government services and the community, ensuring that vital resources are accessible to those who need them. These professionals organize public events, educate the community about government programs, and gather feedback on improving social services.

Rehabilitation Counselors:

Rehabilitation counselors work with individuals with disabilities, helping them achieve personal and professional goals. They assess clients’ abilities, develop rehabilitation plans, and assist with job placement. Specializations include vocational rehabilitation and substance abuse recovery.

Substance Abuse Counselors:

These counselors provide support to individuals struggling with addiction by offering individual and group therapy, conducting assessments, and developing treatment plans. Substance abuse counselors often work in government-run treatment centers and community health clinics.

Elderly Services Coordinators:

Elderly services coordinators manage programs that help older adults access healthcare, social engagement, and transportation services. They advocate for senior citizens’ rights and ensure their needs are met in a safe and supportive environment.

Disability Services Specialists:

These specialists ensure equal access and opportunities for individuals with disabilities by advocating for accessibility, coordinating support services, and helping to implement disability policies across government agencies.

Disability Services Specialists:

These specialists ensure equal access and opportunities for individuals with disabilities by advocating for accessibility, coordinating support services, and helping to implement disability policies across government agencies.

 

Education and Qualifications for Government Social Service Jobs

A career in government social services generally requires a combination of education, experience, and relevant certifications. Here’s a breakdown of the typical qualifications needed for various roles:

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Educational Requirements

  • Bachelor’s Degree: Most entry-level positions in government social services require at least a bachelor’s degree in social work, human services, psychology, or public administration. For specific roles, degrees like education or nursing may also be acceptable.
  • Master’s Degree: Advanced positions, such as clinical social work or rehabilitation counseling, typically require a master’s degree. Standard options include a Master of Social Work (MSW), a Master of Public Administration (MPA), or a Master’s in Psychology or Counseling.
  • Doctoral Degree: While rare for most positions, a Ph.D. in Social Work, Public Policy, or Public Administration can benefit those pursuing high-level roles in administrative services, policy-making, or research.

Licenses and Certifications

Certain roles in government social services require specific certifications and licenses:

  • Social Work License: Clinical social work positions often require a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) or similar designation. This requires passing an exam after completing an MSW and supervised hours.
  • Counseling Certifications: A Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) or Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) certification may be required for roles like substance abuse or mental health counseling.
  • Child Welfare Certification: Some states require additional certification for child welfare specialists, which may include passing an exam after completing specific training.
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Other Key Qualifications

Experience:

Government agencies often value practical experience in addition to formal education. Internships, volunteer work, or entry-level roles in human services can help build your qualifications. For advanced positions, several years of experience may be required.

Language Skills:

Being bilingual, especially in languages other than English, can be a significant asset when working with diverse communities.

Technology Skills:

Many government roles require proficiency in case management software, data analysis, and office tools. Some positions, especially in administrative services, may also require skills in areas like social media management or research.

 

Continuing Education

Government social service professionals must complete continuing education to maintain their licenses or certifications. Agencies like the California Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control or research organizations like the National Institute of Mental Health may provide training on emerging social services practices and new policies. Staying updated on trends in mental health, family support, and public health is crucial for career growth.

 

Security Clearance

Some government social service jobs, particularly at the federal level or in departments like Veterans Affairs, may require a security clearance. The clearance level depends on the job’s sensitivity, particularly in roles related to national security or handling personal data. Obtaining clearance usually involves a detailed background check.

 

Where to Find Job Opportunities

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Government social service jobs can be found at the city, county, state, and federal levels. Key departments offering these positions include the California Department of Human Services, Veterans Affairs, and local health and human services agencies. You can also search for roles through job boards specific to government jobs, such as USAJobs.gov or state and local government websites.

To streamline your job search, many agencies offer email notifications and the option to click save on job postings that interest you. Explore positions in health, education, and disability services to find the right match for your skills.

 

Conclusion

Government social service jobs provide a rewarding and stable career path for those committed to positively impacting society. Whether you’re interested in working with children, families, veterans, or individuals with disabilities, these roles offer a unique opportunity to support communities and promote social well-being.

With the proper education, certifications, and a commitment to ongoing learning, you can embark on a fulfilling career in government social services. You can explore job opportunities in your area and find a role that aligns with your passion for helping others.

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