Acute Care Worker

Mental Health Association, Inc.; Chicopee (MA); On-site; USD 26,000 - 29,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental &amp

Retirement Plan (403B, IRA)

Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & PH

Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)

Long Term Disability

Job summary

Mental Health Association, Inc. in Chicopee, MA seeks an Acute Care Worker (ACT) to support individuals with developmental, intellectual disabilities, brain injuries, mental health issues, and substance use disorders in community living.

The role emphasizes respect, integrity and compassion, with shift-based responsibilities and on-call support. Responsibilities include teaching independent living skills, advocating for participants, transportation duties, medication administration per MAP

Qualifications

• MAP medication administration certification required.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable insured vehicle.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• CPR and First Aid certifications required.
• Must be at least 18 years old.
• High school diploma or GED; college degree preferred.
• At least six months of relevant experience supporting individuals with disabilities or mental health issues.

Responsibilities

• Teach independent living skills (budgeting, cooking, cleaning, social interaction).
• Advocate and liaise with landlords, healthcare providers, social services, families.
• Provide transportation to appointments and activities with a reliable vehicle.
• Offer on-call support during overnight and holiday hours; respond to emergencies.
• Respond to crises and coordinate emergency services as needed.
• Administer medications per MAP standards; monitor health and document vitals.
• Maintain and manage medication systems including refills and disposal.
• Keep accurate documentation: daily notes, incident reports, and medication records.
• Ensure a safe, clean, and well-stocked environment; perform safety checks.
• Collaborate with team, participate in trainings and meetings; communicate with participants and providers.

Skills

MAP medication administration

Driver's license

Strong communication

CPR & First Aid certifications

Adaptability

Education

High school diploma or GED

College degree in human services (preferred)

Job description

The Acute Care Worker (ACT) staff performs a variety of duties to provide necessary support 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 Shift: 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.

Requirements:

• 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.