Residential Assistant (1st shift)

Gateway Foundation • Chicago, IL

2d • Onsite

About The Position

Alpharus Health is hiring a Residential Assistant to support patients in a structured, therapeutic behavioral health setting. The role focuses on patient safety, supervision, daily routines, and recovery-oriented interactions. The assistant also documents observations, communicates concerns to staff, contributes to treatment-team discussions, transports patients locally, and assists with administrative tasks and structured activities.

The position is located at 1706 N Kedzie Ave, Chicago, IL 60647. The schedule is Sunday through Thursday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Compensation is $16.20–$18.00 per hour, with starting rates based on experience, qualifications, and relevant skills. The role may involve collecting specimens and administering screenings as permitted by policy and training.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED.
• At least 21 years of age to operate company vehicles.
• Valid driver's license and acceptable motor vehicle record, meeting company policy and insurance eligibility requirements.
• Ability to maintain appropriate professional boundaries and consistently enforce program rules and expectations.
• Ability to interact with patients in a compassionate, respectful, and recovery-oriented manner.
• Strong observation, communication, documentation, and de-escalation skills.
• Ability to stand, walk, and move throughout the facility for extended periods.
• Ability to observe and assess patient behavior, including recognizing changes in physical condition or safety risks.
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively verbally and in writing with patients, staff, and external parties.
• Ability to respond appropriately in emergencies or crisis situations, including implementing de-escalation techniques.
• Ability to operate standard office equipment and complete documentation using electronic systems.
• Ability to drive and travel locally to transport patients and attend meetings as required.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds occasionally.

Nice To Haves

• Related experience in the behavioral field.

Responsibilities

• Observe patients and monitor behavior to ensure safety and adherence to program guidelines.
• Report incidents, behavioral concerns, medical issues, or missing patients to appropriate staff in a timely manner.
• Document observations and patient interactions in accordance with policy.
• Supervise and participate in daily patient activities and routines.
• Conduct regular bed checks and patient counts in accordance with policy and procedures.
• Assist with check-ins, reinforce rules, and encourage engagement in treatment.
• Support a structured and therapeutic environment.
• Provide input to the treatment team regarding patient behavior, progress, and concerns.
• Help maintain consistency in behavioral expectations and interventions.
• Coordinate and drive patients to appointments, work, school, or approved activities.
• Perform basic administrative tasks, including phones, filing, documentation support, and scheduling as needed.
• Support patient events and structured activities.
• Assist with educational groups or activities under supervision and in accordance with state regulations.
• Collect specimens and administer screenings, such as urine tests or breathalyzers, as permitted by policy and training.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees and dependents.
• Employee wellness program promoting health and fitness and offering cash-saving premiums.
• Employee assistance programs focused on mental health.
• 403(b) retirement plan with a 3% employer match.
• Short-term and long-term disability insurance paid for by Alpharus.
• Life and accidental death and dismemberment insurance paid for by Alpharus.
• Flexible spending accounts for medical and dependent care.
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF).
• 18 paid time-off days per year, with accrual rates increasing with years of service.
• 9 paid company holidays.
• Training and development programs.
• Tuition reimbursement up to $5,250 per calendar year.
• Access to online courses providing CEUs and job-related training.
• Formal and informal clinical supervision.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED