Direct Care

Mental Health Association - Western MA•West Springfield, MA

2d•$19 - $21

About The Position

The Residential Support Specialist (RSS) provides a supportive environment in a community residential setting for people impacted by homelessness, psychiatric diagnoses, trauma, and/or addiction. The role supports participants’ recovery and rehabilitation through person-centered, strengths-based, and trauma-informed care, in accordance with MHA’s Core Values of Respect, Integrity, and Compassion and applicable organizational policies, funding requirements, and regulatory standards. The position is scheduled Sundays and Mondays from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. (32 hours). The RSS helps participants develop daily living skills, pursue recovery goals, access education, benefits, and community resources, and participate in appointments, activities, groups, and household responsibilities. The role also includes medication support under MAP guidelines, documentation, financial tracking, transportation, safety tasks, and collaboration with the team.

Requirements

Valid driver’s license, reliable vehicle, acceptable driving record, and sufficient insurance.
High school diploma or equivalent.
At least six months of experience working with people experiencing homelessness, psychiatric conditions, trauma, and/or addiction.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team, with strong time management and follow-through.
Effective written, oral, and computer skills.
Ability to adapt to participant needs and program requirements.
Patience, empathy, and interpersonal effectiveness.
Ability to obtain and maintain MAP, CPR, and First Aid certifications.
Must be at least 18 years of age.

Nice To Haves

College coursework in human services or a related field.

Responsibilities

Assist with daily living skills, including hygiene, housekeeping, and nutrition; encourage self-advocacy and model tasks such as transportation, social activities, and recreation.
Support participants in exploring education, benefits, and community resources, including PVTA, Social Security, and vocational services.
Use trauma-informed care to support recovery goals, identify triggers, respond to pre-crisis or medical situations, and report concerns as required.
Help schedule and attend appointments; assist with medication administration under MAP guidelines, perform audits, and complete required documentation.
Provide budgeting and banking support, track in-house funds, and accurately document expenditures each shift.
Transport participants to appointments, employment, or activities; maintain a reliable, insured vehicle and complete required driver training.
Use agency platforms such as the EHR and timesheets, complete documentation promptly and objectively, and participate in training as needed.
Lead psychoeducational groups and house meetings, maintain professional boundaries, and encourage participant engagement.
Involve participants in household maintenance and complete cleaning and safety tasks to maintain a healthy environment.
Work with the team to support participant goals and maintain effective, professional communication.
Remain flexible with scheduling and location assignments and fulfill additional duties as needed based on program demands.
Follow agency protocols, including incident reporting, abuse and neglect procedures, and medication safety practices.