Direct Service Worker

Advocates•Newton, MA

About The Position

Advocates is hiring an entry-level Direct Service Worker to support people experiencing mental health and/or substance use challenges. Working collaboratively with a team, the Direct Service Worker supervises residents’ daily activities and provides ongoing support, guidance, and role modeling in accordance with individualized plans that promote independence and progress toward personal goals. The role also includes medication management, assistance with finances, and support with community integration. Advocates is a nonprofit, mission-driven organization that provides comprehensive services for people facing developmental, mental health, and other life challenges. Its person-centered approach empowers individuals to make choices, build independence, and live meaningful lives. Advocates emphasizes respect, compassion, inclusion, and a supportive culture where employees can grow and thrive. The stated schedule is Tuesday through Friday, 2 p.m.–10 p.m., and Saturday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. The starting rate is $18.50 per hour.

Requirements

A bachelor’s degree, or a high school diploma or equivalent and 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 work 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.

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 interventions that address clients’ identified goals and develop skills.
Link clients with other program staff and service providers.
Communicate participants’ progress, mental status, and changes in daily notes.
Provide ongoing support, guidance, role modeling, and supervision to clients.
Identify and address community-integration issues under a supervisor’s direction.
Monitor and document medication administration.
Maintain a clean, safe, and home-like environment for clients.
Remain alert throughout scheduled work shifts.
Complete and keep paperwork, reports, and training up to date within expected timelines.
Attend and actively participate in core training and maintain required certifications, including CPR/First Aid, Crisis Management, and MAP.
Provide crisis intervention and access emergency services as needed.