Direct Care Staff – Residential Group Homes

Center for Human Development (CHD)•West Springfield, MA

3d•$18 - $20•Onsite

About The Position

The Center for Human Development (CHD) is seeking dependable, compassionate Direct Care Staff for its Developmental Services Residential Group Homes in the Greater Springfield, Massachusetts area, with immediate vacancies in Southwick and Palmer. Staff support adults living with developmental disabilities by helping create a safe, supportive, and empowering home environment. Working within a team model, Direct Care Staff foster open communication, mutual support, resident independence, life-skill development, and participation in local communities. Full-time, part-time, and per-diem relief-pool opportunities are available, with first-, second-, and third-shift options. The primary operational need is for second- and third-shift coverage, and schedules include weekend shifts. Per-diem staff must work at least four shifts per month to remain active in the relief pool. The role includes assisting with personal care and daily living, administering medications after completing the required MAP training and certification, building professional person-centered relationships, advocating for residents in community settings, and maintaining a clean and secure home. CHD provides paid training and team support. Compensation is $18.00–$20.00 per hour, based on employment status; active MAP-certified hires may qualify for a sign-on bonus of up to $500.

Requirements

Valid driver's license, reliable personal vehicle for work use, and access to a smartphone or device for Microsoft Teams scheduling communication.
Must pass a background record screening process.
If not currently MAP-certified, must be able to complete Medication Administration Program training upon hire.
Willingness to work second- or third-shift schedules, including weekend shifts.
Relief-pool staff must be flexible to cover shifts across multiple residential sites as assigned.
Compassionate, patient, warm, positive, and empathetic approach to helping others.
Solid written and verbal communication skills, clear boundaries, and ability to collaborate with a team.
Dependable and adaptable, able to work independently and as part of a residential care team.

Nice To Haves

MAP certification upon hire; active MAP-certified hires may qualify for a sign-on bonus of up to $500.
Current First Aid and CPR certifications.
Experience working with individuals with dementia or behavioral complexities.
Background experience as a Home Health Aide (HHA), Personal Care Assistant (PCA), Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), or family caregiver.

Responsibilities

Assist residents with activities of daily living, including personal hygiene, bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, and meal preparation.
Administer prescribed medications safely and accurately after completing Medication Administration Program (MAP) training and certification.
Build strong, professional, person-centered relationships with residents, offering encouraging guidance while maintaining respectful boundaries.
Advocate for residents in community settings and provide opportunities that support their choice, independence, and well-being.
Maintain a clean, secure, and respectful home environment tailored to resident needs.
Work collaboratively within CHD's team model to foster open communication, mutual support, resident independence, and life-skill development.
For relief-pool staff, cover shifts across multiple residential sites as assigned and work at least four shifts per month to remain active in the pool.