Awake Overnight Direct Support Staff

Advocates; Swansea (MA); On-site; USD 21,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

Advocates is seeking Awake Overnight Direct Support Staff for the third shift (11:00 p.m.–9:00 a.m.), Sunday through Wednesday, to support individuals in an overnight residential setting. You will stay awake, ensure safety, and assist with morning routines and transportation to day programs.

The role requires a High School Diploma or GED, overnight vigilance, the ability to work independently, reliable transportation, and a commitment to respecting human rights and diverse populations.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Experience with the population preferred.
• Excellent communication, judgment, and interpersonal skills.
• Basic computer proficiency required.
• Ability to work independently and stay alert overnight.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable vehicle; ability to transport individuals.
• Commitment to serving culturally diverse populations.

Responsibilities

• Remain awake, alert, and responsive throughout the overnight shift
• Ensure the health, safety, and well-being of individuals at all times
• Assist with morning routines (hygiene, clothing, meals, and preparation for day programs)
• Provide transportation to day programs as needed
• Support household cleaning and maintenance tasks
• Implement established treatment and support plans
• Conduct and participate in safety drills, including fire drills and evacuations
• Report health, behavioral, or psychiatric concerns to on-call staff
• Complete accurate documentation, including shift notes and behavioral observations
• Provide physical intervention in crisis situations when necessary
• Maintain required certifications (CPR/First Aid, MAP, SOLVE, HR/DPPC)
• Ensure individuals are treated with dignity, respect, and in alignment with Human Rights policies

Skills

Overnight vigilance

Strong communication

Judgement & interpersonal skills

Independence in night shift

Driver's license & transport

Diversity sensitivity

Basic computer skills

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Job description

Overview

Starting Rate: $18.50/hour

Schedule: Sunday through Wednesday 11p-9a

As an Awake Overnight Direct Support Staff, you play a critical role in ensuring individuals are supported, secure, and cared for during the quietest hours. This is an active overnight residential position for someone who is attentive, reliable, and motivated by making a meaningful difference —providing hands-on support, staying alert, and helping individuals feel safe, respected, and ready for the day ahead.

Who We Are

At Advocates, we provide comprehensive services for people facing developmental, mental health, or other life challenges.

We’rea nonprofit, mission-driven organization with a person-centered approach, empowering the individuals we support to make choices, build independence, and live full, meaningful lives. Our work is rooted in respect, compassion, and inclusion, and we envision a world where individual differences are appreciated and celebrated.

At Advocates, we value the ideas, experiences, and contributions of employees and are committed to fostering a supportive, welcoming culture where everyone can grow and thrive.

Minimum Education Required

High School Diploma/GED

Shift

Third Shift

Responsibilities

• Remain awake, alert, and responsive throughout the overnight shift
• Ensure the health, safety, and well-being of individuals at all times
• Assist with morning routines (hygiene, clothing, meals, and preparation for day programs)
• Provide transportation to day programs as needed
• Support household cleaning and maintenance tasks
• Implement established treatment and support plans
• Conduct and participate in safety drills, including fire drills and evacuations
• Report health, behavioral, or psychiatric concerns to on-call staff
• Complete accurate documentation, including shift notes and behavioral observations
• Provide physical intervention in crisis situations when necessary
• Maintain required certifications (CPR/First Aid, MAP, SOLVE, HR/DPPC)
• Ensure individuals are treated with dignity, respect, and in alignment with Human Rights policies

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required
• Experience working with the population preferred
• Strong communication, judgment, and interpersonal skills
• Basic computer proficiency required
• Ability to work independently and remain alert overnight
• Valid driver’s license, reliable vehicle, and willingness to transport individuals
• Commitment to supporting culturally diverse populations strongly preferred

Advocates is committed to cultivating a diverse and welcoming community where everyone feels respected and valued. Advocates fosters a culture of inclusion that celebrates and promotes diversity along multiple dimensions, including race, ethnicity, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, partnered status, age, national origin, socioeconomic status, religion, ability, culture, and experience.

We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants. If you require a reasonable accommodation during the application, interview or hiring process, please contact Human Resources.