Residential Aide

Housing Works • Brooklyn, NY

16h • Onsite

About The Position

The Residential Aide ensures the wellbeing and safety of program participants, staff, and the physical environment. The role includes crisis intervention as needed, wellness checks, facility and perimeter walkthroughs, room inspections, minor custodial maintenance, and maintaining program records and reports. Residential aide services are provided onsite 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, across three shifts: 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m., 4:00 p.m.–12:00 a.m., and 12:00 a.m.–8:00 a.m. At least two staff members must be present per shift at all times.

The Residential Aide enforces the program’s Code of Conduct and builds professional, respectful rapport with clients, de-escalating tense or hostile situations when needed. The role also involves communicating with clinical staff, screening people entering the facility, writing shift and incident reports, distributing and storing meals, and performing light custodial tasks. During inclement weather, aides clear snow and ice from the property in accordance with NYC requirements.

Housing Works is a nonprofit organization founded in 1990 that advocates for people living with HIV/AIDS and provides housing, healthcare, behavioral health, and other services. The position is part of a bargaining unit represented by the Retail Wholesale and Department Store Union (RWDSU).

Requirements

• At least one year of work experience.
• Experience or ability to work with people who are unhoused or have chronic medical conditions, substance use disorders, or mental health diagnoses.
• Experience working with individuals who have previous involvement in the criminal legal system.
• Ability to arrive and depart on time for scheduled shifts.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively with a team.
• Ability to prioritize and multitask in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to lift 50 pounds with proper assistance and tools.
• At least two staff members must be present per shift at all times.

Nice To Haves

• High school diploma or GED preferred, but not required.
• Experience working in a congregate or residential treatment housing setting.
• Previous experience in a security- or operations-related role.
• Bilingual Spanish preferred.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Proficient technical skills, including Microsoft Outlook, Excel, and Word.

Responsibilities

• Enforce the program’s Code of Conduct and ensure clients adhere to it.
• Build rapport with clients and engage with them professionally and respectfully.
• De-escalate tense or hostile client situations when necessary.
• Ensure the safety, security, and integrity of residents, guests, and the facility.
• Conduct periodic facility walkthroughs, perimeter checks, wellness checks, and room inspections.
• Provide excellent customer service while maintaining confidentiality.
• Communicate with clinical staff about resident behavior and the care of residents on the fragile list.
• Screen visitors, staff, and clients entering the facility according to Housing Works requirements.
• Write and submit shift reports at the end of each shift in accordance with department requirements.
• Write and submit incident reports according to Housing Works policies and procedures, and testify in court about report contents when necessary after preparation by Housing Works attorneys.
• Distribute meals to clients as needed and unpack and store delivered meals according to site requirements.
• Perform light custodial work, including cleaning tables and chairs, addressing minor spills, and removing trash.
• Remove snow and ice from the building’s property during inclement weather, following NYC requirements and using available equipment.
• Participate in advocacy and direct actions to address homelessness and HIV/AIDS.

Benefits

• Three comprehensive healthcare plans to choose from; Housing Works covers most of the plan cost, with the employee paying a portion based on salary.
• Staff begin accruing paid time off immediately, with up to 30 days earned in the first year.
• Educational benefit available for tuition loan reimbursement, tuition costs, and textbooks.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed