1st Shift Direct Care

MHA (Mental Health Association); Springfield (MA); On-site; USD 23,000 - 32,000; Part time

Job summary

New Ways Services - ABI Division seeks a Residential Support Specialist to create a supportive living environment for individuals with acquired brain injuries. The role promotes growth, independence, and community engagement while upholding MHA's values of Respect, Integrity, and Compassion.

Pay rate is $20 per hour with open shifts on Sundays and Mondays 8am-4pm (16hrs). You will document progress, coordinate with a care team, and support participants in daily living and community access.

Qualifications

• Valid driver’s license, sufficient insurance, and reliable vehicle.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Flexibility to adapt to evolving participant needs.
• Ability to provide personal care (bathing, dressing, grooming, mobility).
• Willingness to obtain MAP, CPR, and first aid certifications.
• Minimum age 21; HS diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Six months of relevant experience preferred, especially with brain injuries.

Responsibilities

• Communicate respectfully with participants to promote self-esteem, empowerment, and independence.
• Assist with personal care, daily routines, meals, finances, and transportation.
• Facilitate access to community resources and teach self-advocacy skills.
• Implement individualized service plans and document progress.
• Report incidents and concerns promptly; maintain scheduling flexibility.
• Attend team meetings and trainings; support program goals.

Skills

Empathy

Communication

Time management

Documentation

Teamwork

Flexibility

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Position Summary

The Residential Support Specialist plays a crucial role in creating a supportive and secure living environment for individuals with acquired brain injuries. This position promotes personal growth, independence, and community engagement, embodying MHA's Core Values of Respect, Integrity, and Compassion, while adhering to all relevant policies and guidelines.

Sunday & Monday 8am-4pm (16hrs)

• Communicate respectfully with participants to promote self-esteem, empowerment, and independence
• Assist with personal care, daily routines, meal preparation, and support participants in managing finances and transportation
• Facilitate access to community resources, teach self-advocacy skills, and implement individualized service plans
• Complete all required documentation, track progress, and report incidents, emergencies, or concerns promptly
• Maintain scheduling flexibility, participate in team meetings, and attend required trainings
• Demonstrate professionalism, collaborate with the team, and support program goals

Position Summary

The Residential Support Specialist plays a crucial role in creating a supportive and secure living environment for individuals with acquired brain injuries. This position promotes personal growth, independence, and community engagement, embodying MHA's Core Values of Respect, Integrity, and Compassion, while adhering to all relevant policies and guidelines.

Pay Rate: $20 an hour

Open Shift: Sunday & Monday 8am-4pm (16hrs)

Key Responsibilities

• Communicate respectfully with participants to promote self-esteem, empowerment, and independence
• Assist with personal care, daily routines, meal preparation, and support participants in managing finances and transportation
• Facilitate access to community resources, teach self-advocacy skills, and implement individualized service plans
• Complete all required documentation, track progress, and report incidents, emergencies, or concerns promptly
• Maintain scheduling flexibility, participate in team meetings, and attend required trainings
• Demonstrate professionalism, collaborate with the team, and support program goals

About New Ways Services - (ABI Division)

New Way is MHA's residential and community-based program supporting individuals with acquired brain injuries (ABI) from trauma, stroke, or serious illness. Our team helps participants overcome physical, emotional, and cognitive challenges, build skills, and gain independence through personalized care, meaningful daily routines, and supportive homes in welcoming neighborhoods. With 24/7 support, nursing, clinical, and therapeutic services, we help participants reconnect with their communities, regain confidence, and live life to the fullest.

Equal Opportunity Statement

The Mental Health Association is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Requirements

• Valid driver's license, sufficient insurance, and a reliable vehicle
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, managing time and priorities effectively
• Flexibility to adapt to the evolving needs of participants
• Ability to provide personal care, including assistance with bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, and mobility
• Willingness and ability to obtain certifications in medication administration (MAP), CPR, and first aid
• Minimum age of 21; high school diploma or equivalent preferred
• Six months of relevant experience preferred, especially with individuals with brain injuries or mental health challenges