Acute Care Worker

Mental Health Association - Western MA; Chicopee (MA); On-site; USD 26,174 - 28,929; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental &amp

Retirement Plan (403B, IRA)

Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & PH

Job summary

The Mental Health Association (Western MA) seeks an ACT staff member to provide essential supports for individuals with developmental disabilities, brain injuries, and mental health needs to enable independent living in the community.

Responsibilities include teaching living skills, advocating for participants, transporting to appointments, and handling emergency responses while administering MAP medications and maintaining documentation.

Qualifications

• Valid driver’s license, reliable insured vehicle, acceptable driving record, and ability to complete driver training.
• Strong oral, written, computer, and organizational skills.
• Adaptability to changing participant needs and program requirements.
• Certified in MAP with medication administration experience; able to pass CPR and First Aid certifications.
• Must be at least 18 years old.
• High school diploma or GED required; college degree in human services or related field preferred.
• At least six months of relevant experience supporting individuals with developmental/intellectual disabilities and/or mental health issues, including MAP medication administration.

Responsibilities

• Teach and model independent living skills such as budgeting, cooking, cleaning, and social interaction to support participant growth and self-sufficiency.
• Serve as an advocate and liaison for participants with landlords, healthcare providers, social services, and family members.
• Provide transportation to appointments, social activities, and other essential engagements while maintaining a reliable, work-ready vehicle.
• Offer on‑call support during scheduled, overnight, and holiday hours, responding promptly to medical and psychiatric emergencies.
• Respond to crises by ensuring participant safety, providing support, and coordinating emergency services when necessary.
• Administer medications in accordance with MAP standards, including monitoring health status and documenting all administration and vital signs.
• Track, manage, and maintain medication systems, including refills, documentation, error reporting, and disposal procedures.
• Maintain accurate, timely documentation including daily notes, incident reports, medication records, and appointment tracking.
• Ensure a safe, clean, and well‑stocked environment, including office upkeep and conducting safety checks.
• Collaborate with team members and participate in trainings and meetings while maintaining effective communication with participants, families, and providers.

Skills

Oral and written communication

Computer literacy

Organizational skills

Adaptability

MAP medication administration

CPR/First Aid

Driver's license

Education

High school diploma or GED

College degree in human services or related field (preferred)

Job description

Position Summary

The ACT staff performs a variety of duties to provide necessary supports to individuals with developmental disabilities, intellectual disabilities, brain injuries, mental health issues, and/or substance abuse disorders to enable independent living in the community. Perform responsibilities professionally and collaboratively in accordance with MHA’s Core Values (Respect, Integrity, and Compassion), policies, funding requirements, and regulatory guidelines.

Pay Range: $19-21 an hour

Open Shifts

- Monday through Wednesday 7am-9am & 1pm-9pm, Thursday 7am-9am & 3pm-9pm, Friday 7am-9am (40hrs)

- Monday 1pm-3pm, Friday 11am-9pm, Saturday & Sunday 7am-9pm (40hrs)

Key Responsibilities

• Teach and model independent living skills such as budgeting, cooking, cleaning, and social interaction to support participant growth and self-sufficiency.
• Serve as an advocate and liaison for participants with landlords, healthcare providers, social services, and family members.
• Provide transportation to appointments, social activities, and other essential engagements while maintaining a reliable, work-ready vehicle.
• Offer on‑call support during scheduled, overnight, and holiday hours, responding promptly to medical and psychiatric emergencies.
• Respond to crises by ensuring participant safety, providing support, and coordinating emergency services when necessary.
• Administer medications in accordance with MAP standards, including monitoring health status and documenting all administration and vital signs.
• Track, manage, and maintain medication systems, including refills, documentation, error reporting, and disposal procedures.
• Maintain accurate, timely documentation including daily notes, incident reports, medication records, and appointment tracking.
• Ensure a safe, clean, and well‑stocked environment, including office upkeep and conducting safety checks.
• Collaborate with team members and participate in trainings and meetings while maintaining effective communication with participants, families, and providers.

About Integration & Community Living (ICL)

The Integration & Community Living (ICL) program supports individuals with developmental disabilities and brain injuries in living independently and meaningfully in the community. In partnership with the Department of Developmental Services (DDS), ICL provides person‑centered residential and outreach services across Western Massachusetts. With over 60 years of experience, MHA helps individuals transition from institutional settings into homes where they can grow, make choices, and fully participate in community life. Services range from supported and shared living to emergency respite and privately funded care, all designed to promote independence, dignity, and connection.

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.

Qualifications

• Valid driver’s license, reliable insured vehicle, acceptable driving record, and ability to complete driver training.
• Strong oral, written, computer, and organizational skills.
• Adaptability to changing participant needs and program requirements.
• Certified in MAP with medication administration experience; able to pass CPR and First Aid certifications.
• Must be at least 18 years old.
• High school diploma or GED required; college degree in human services or related field preferred.
• At least six months of relevant experience supporting individuals with developmental/intellectual disabilities and/or mental health issues, including MAP medication administration.

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