Direct Service Worker-Male Only

Advocates•Ashland, MA

11d

About The Position

Advocates is hiring an entry-level Direct Service Worker to support individuals experiencing mental health and/or substance use challenges. Working collaboratively with a team, the worker supervises residents’ daily activities and provides ongoing support, guidance, and role modeling in accordance with individualized plans that promote independence and help residents achieve their goals. The role also includes medication management, assistance with finances, and helping residents integrate into the community. Advocates is a nonprofit, mission-driven organization providing comprehensive services to people facing developmental, mental health, or other life challenges. Its person-centered approach empowers individuals to make choices, build independence, and live meaningful lives. The organization emphasizes respect, compassion, inclusion, and a supportive culture where employees can grow and contribute. The starting rate is $19.00 per hour. The schedule is Tuesday through Saturday, 2 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED; qualifications specify a bachelor’s degree, or a high school diploma or equivalent plus one year of related experience.
Experience working in the behavioral health field.
Excellent interpersonal, judgment, and coaching skills.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to use basic computer applications.
Ability and desire to thrive in a fast-paced, client-centered, team-oriented environment.
Valid driver’s license, access to an operational and insured vehicle, and willingness to use it to transport clients.
Maintain required CPR/First Aid, Crisis Management, and MAP training certifications.

Nice To Haves

Demonstrated understanding of and competence in serving culturally diverse populations.

Responsibilities

Participate in treatment-plan development and attend treatment meetings, including weekly staff meetings.
Document progress toward treatment plans.
Provide client interventions that address identified goals and develop skills.
Coordinate with other program staff and service providers.
Communicate participants’ progress, mental status, and daily changes in notes.
Provide ongoing support, guidance, role modeling, and supervision to clients.
Identify and address community-integration issues with direction from a supervisor.
Monitor and document medication administration.
Maintain a clean, safe, home-like environment for clients.
Remain alert throughout the scheduled work shift.
Complete and maintain paperwork, reports, and trainings within divisional timelines.
Attend and participate actively in core training and maintain required CPR/First Aid, Crisis Management, and MAP certifications.
Provide crisis intervention and access emergency services as needed.
Use an operational, insured vehicle to transport clients, as required.