Floating Direct Care
About The Position
As a Floating Residential Support Specialist in MHA’s Integrated Community Living (ICL) department, you will provide a supportive and safe environment in community residential settings. You will travel among program locations in Springfield, Chicopee, and East Longmeadow according to staffing needs, providing consistent support across the department. You will help individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities or autism build independence, pursue personal goals, and participate in their communities while promoting dignity and choice. ICL provides person-centered residential and outreach services throughout Western Massachusetts in partnership with the Department of Developmental Services. Its services include supported and shared living, emergency respite, and privately funded care, supporting individuals to build skills and meaningful community connections. The listed shifts are Tuesday through Saturday, 3 p.m.–11 p.m. (40 hours), or Wednesday through Saturday, 11 p.m.–9 a.m. (40 hours). Pay is $19–$21 per hour. The Mental Health Association is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion.
Requirements
- Valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record.
- Must maintain MAP, CPR, and First Aid certifications.
- Must be at least 18 years old.
- High school diploma or GED required.
- Minimum of six months of relevant experience.
- 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.
- Ability to travel between program locations in Springfield, Chicopee, and East Longmeadow based on staffing needs.
Nice To Haves
- College degree preferred.
- Experience with mental health, intellectual and developmental disabilities, or autism is preferred; the posting specifies at least six months of relevant experience.
Responsibilities
- Provide respectful, person-centered support with daily living activities, personal care, and skill development.
- Facilitate community integration, including access to transportation, social activities, and external resources.
- Support participants’ health needs, including medication administration according to MAP standards, appointment scheduling, and monitoring wellbeing.
- Assist with financial skills and money management, and accurately document expenditures.
- Respond appropriately to emergencies and crisis situations according to agency protocols, 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 developing and implementing Individual Service Plans (ISPs), documenting progress and participation.
- Maintain accurate and timely daily logs, incident reports, and health records.
- Promote safety by following procedures, assisting with emergency drills, and identifying potential hazards.
- Collaborate with team members, attend training, maintain MAP, CPR, and First Aid certifications, and participate in meetings and supervision.
- Provide personal care assistance with bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, and mobility.
- Travel among program locations in Springfield, Chicopee, and East Longmeadow based on staffing needs.
Benefits
- Medical, dental, and vision health care plan
- Retirement plan (403B, IRA)
- Paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and public holidays
- Family leave, including maternity and paternity leave
- Long-term disability
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Education Level
High school or GED
