1st Shift Direct Care-Full Time

MHA (Mental Health Association); Chicopee (MA); On-site; USD 26,000 - 29,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health care plan

Retirement plan

Paid time off

Family leave

Long term disability

Job summary

Mental Health Association is seeking a Direct Care professional for 1st shift in Chicopee, MA. This on-site role supports individuals with ABI, promoting independence, daily living skills, and community integration.

You will provide personal care, assist with routines, and help participants access community resources while documenting progress and maintaining safety. Competitive pay and benefits accompany a 40-hour weekly schedule.

Qualifications

• Strong communication and empathy to promote self-esteem and independence.
• Ability to manage time and organize daily routines and transport.
• Comfort with documenting progress and reporting incidents in a timely manner.
• Willingness to obtain MAP, CPR, and first aid certifications.
• Minimum age 18 with a high school diploma or equivalent.

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.

Skills

Communication

Time management

Teamwork

Flexibility

Documentation

Personal care

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

MAP certification

CPR certification

First aid certification

Job description

1st Shift Direct Care On-site New Way Services Full time Chicopee, Massachusetts, United States 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 Range: $19-$21 an hour Open Shifts: Sunday through Thursday 7am-3pm (40hrs) Tuesday through Saturday 8am-4pm (40hrs)

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 18; high school diploma or equivalent.

Preferred

Preferred. Six Months Of Relevant Experience Preferred, Especially With individuals with brain injuries or mental health challenges.

Benefits

• Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
• Retirement Plan (403B, IRA)
• Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
• Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)
• Long Term Disability $19 - $21 an hour