Overnight Residential Support Specialist, Community Living

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

Job summary

Mental Health Association - Western MA is seeking a Residential Support Specialist to create a supportive, safe environment across multiple community locations in Western Massachusetts. You will assist individuals with daily living activities, independence, and community participation, traveling as needed to staffing sites while upholding dignity and choice.

The role requires strong communication, adaptability, and a commitment to person-centered care.

Qualifications

• Valid driver’s license and a clean driving record.
• Strong communication, organizational, and computer skills.
• Adaptability to participants' changing needs.
• Provide personal care, including assistance with bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, and mobility.
• Ability to pass and maintain MAP, 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.
• Minimum of six months of relevant experience; experience with mental health, developmental disabilities, or autism preferred.

Responsibilities

• Provide respectful, person-centered support to participants in daily living activities, personal care, and skill development.
• Promote community integration by facilitating access to transportation, social activities, and external resources.
• Support participants' health needs, including medication administration (MAP), appointment scheduling, and monitoring wellbeing.
• Assist with financial skills and money management, maintaining accurate documentation of all expenditures.
• Respond to emergencies and crisis situations appropriately, following agency protocols and communicating with supervisors.
• Advocate for participants and help them build self-advocacy skills; liaise with families, providers, and community supports.
• Contribute to the development and implementation of ISPs, documenting progress and participation.
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation, including daily logs, incident reports, and health records.
• Promote a safe environment by following safety procedures, assisting with emergency drills, and identifying hazards.
• Collaborate with team, attend training, maintain certifications (MAP, CPR, First Aid), and participate in meetings and supervision.

Skills

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Computer skills

Adaptability

Driver's license

Education

High school diploma or GED

College degree in human services or related field preferred

Tools

MAP certification

CPR

First Aid

Job description

Mental Health Association - Western MA is seeking a Residential Support Specialist to create a supportive, safe environment across multiple community locations in Western Massachusetts. You will assist individuals with daily living activities, independence, and community participation, traveling as needed to staffing sites while upholding dignity and choice.

The role requires strong communication, adaptability, and a commitment to person-centered care.