Floating Direct Care

Mental Health Association - Western MA•Chicopee, MA

9d•$19 - $21•Onsite

About The Position

As a Floating Residential Support Specialist in MHA’s Integrated Community Living (ICL) department, you will help provide a supportive and safe environment in community residential settings. You will travel among program locations in Springfield, Amherst, and South Hadley according to staffing needs, offering consistent support across the department. The role supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities or autism with daily living activities, personal goals, and community participation, while promoting dignity, choice, growth, and independence. ICL supports people with intellectual and developmental disabilities or autism to live independently and meaningfully in their communities. In partnership with the Department of Developmental Services, ICL provides person-centered residential and outreach services throughout Western Massachusetts. Services include supported and shared living, emergency respite, and privately funded care. Pay is $19–$21 per hour. Available schedules are Sunday through Thursday, 7 a.m.–3 p.m. (40 hours), or Sunday through Wednesday, 11 p.m.–9 a.m. (40 hours).

Requirements

Must be at least 18 years old.
High school diploma or GED required.
At least six months of relevant experience.
Valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record.
Must maintain MAP, CPR, and First Aid certifications.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively, with strong time-management skills.
Effective verbal, written, computer, and organizational skills.
Flexibility to adapt to participants’ evolving needs.
Must be able to travel between program locations in Springfield, Amherst, and South Hadley based on staffing needs.

Nice To Haves

College degree preferred.
Experience working with individuals with mental health needs, intellectual and developmental disabilities, or autism is preferred.

Responsibilities

Provide respectful, person-centered support with daily living activities, personal care, and skill development.
Promote community integration by facilitating access to transportation, social activities, and external resources.
Support participants’ health needs, including medication administration according to MAP standards, appointment scheduling, and monitoring overall wellbeing.
Assist with financial skills and money management, and maintain accurate records of expenditures.
Respond appropriately to emergencies and crises by following agency protocols and communicating with supervisors.
Advocate for participants, help them develop self-advocacy skills, and serve as a liaison with families, providers, and community supports.
Contribute to the development and implementation of Individual Service Plans (ISPs), and document progress and participation.
Maintain accurate, timely daily logs, incident reports, and health records.
Promote a safe environment by following safety procedures, assisting with emergency drills, and identifying potential hazards.
Collaborate with team members, attend training, maintain certifications, and participate in meetings and supervision.
Provide personal care, including assistance with bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, and mobility.
Travel between program locations in Springfield, Amherst, and South Hadley based on staffing needs.