Direct Care
About The Position
As a Residential Support Specialist in MHA’s Integrated Community Living (ICL) department, you will provide a supportive and safe environment in community residential settings. You may travel to different program locations based on staffing needs, providing consistent support across the department. You will support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities or autism with daily living activities, personal goals, and community participation while promoting dignity, choice, growth, and independence. The ICL program supports people with intellectual and developmental disabilities or autism in living 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.
Requirements
- Valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record.
- Strong communication, organizational, and computer skills.
- Adaptability to participants’ changing needs.
- Ability to pass and maintain medication administration (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.
Nice To Haves
- College degree in human services or a related field.
- Experience working with individuals with mental health needs, intellectual and developmental disabilities, or autism.
Responsibilities
- Provide respectful, person-centered support with daily living activities, personal care, and skill development.
- Facilitate access to transportation, social activities, and external resources to promote community integration.
- Support participants’ health needs, including medication administration in accordance with MAP standards, appointment scheduling, and monitoring wellbeing.
- Assist with financial skills and money management, and accurately document expenditures.
- Respond to emergencies and crisis situations according to agency protocols and communicate 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 timely and accurate 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.
- Assist with bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, and mobility.
Stand Out From the Crowd
Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.
What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
