Resident Assistant

Better Living; Fort Madison (IA); On-site; USD 21,000 - 23,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Paid time off

401(k) matching

Professional development

Employee assistance programs

Job summary

Better Living in Fort Madison, IA is seeking a compassionate Resident Assistant to support residents with daily living activities, promote safety, and preserve dignity within our memory care inspired culture.

You will collaborate with the Health & Wellness Director, nursing team, and leadership to deliver quality care and create moments of joy each day.

This role requires empathy, teamwork, and reliability; training is provided, and benefits include health, dental, vision, PTO, and 401(k).

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Caregiving or senior living experience preferred but not required—Better Living will train the right heart.
• Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively.
• Ability to lift, push, pull, or assist residents safely.
• Compassionate, patient, and dedicated to serving older adults.

Responsibilities

• Assist residents with ADLs including bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, transferring, and mobility support.
• Provide meal assistance, hydration, and encouragement to maintain independence.
• Observe and report changes in condition promptly to the nurse or Health & Wellness Director.
• Support residents in maintaining a clean, safe, and comfortable living environment.
• Follow care plans and service plans with accuracy and intention.
• Participate in daily programming and engagement activities.
• Build meaningful relationships with residents, knowing their life stories and preferences.
• Communicate clearly with nurses, leadership, and peers to ensure continuity of care.

Skills

Empathy

Communication

Teamwork

Reading & Writing

Mobility assistance

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Job description

At Better Living, we believe every stage of life should be filled with purpose, dignity, and joy.

We’re not just a senior living management company—we’re a team driven by compassion, grounded in hospitality, and committed to doing what’s right for residents, families, and staff. Our communities are built on meaningful connections, personalized support, and everyday moments that matter.

This is senior living, only better.

Benefits

• Compensation - $15.50 to $17.00 per hour
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off and holidays
• 401 (K) matching
• Professional development opportunities
• Employee assistance programs

Position Summary

The Resident Assistant supports residents with activities of daily living (ADLs), engagement, safety, and dignity while promoting independence whenever possible. The RA collaborates with the Health & Wellness Director, nursing team, and leadership to deliver exceptional care within the Better Living culture and the Better Days Memory Care philosophy.

This role requires compassion, consistency, teamwork, and the ability to create moments of joy throughout the day.

Key Responsibilities

Resident Care

• Assist residents with ADLs including bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, transferring, and mobility support.
• Provide meal assistance, hydration, and encouragement to maintain independence.
• Observe and report changes in condition promptly to the nurse or Health & Wellness Director.
• Support residents in maintaining a clean, safe, and comfortable living environment.
• Follow care plans and service plans with accuracy and intention.

Engagement & Culture

• Participate in and encourage involvement in daily programming, including Better Days Memory Care activities.
• Build strong, meaningful relationships with residents—knowing their life stories, preferences, routines, and joys.
• Promote resident choice, dignity, and autonomy in all interactions.
• Create a welcoming, family-centered environment consistent with Better Living standards.

Safety & Compliance

• Follow infection control procedures, emergency protocols, and all IDPH and community policies.
• Ensure proper documentation of care, activities, and observations.
• Use safe transfer techniques and equipment per policy and training.
• Immediately report any suspected abuse, neglect, or unusual incidents.

Teamwork & Communication

• Communicate clearly with nurses, leadership, and peers to ensure continuity of care.
• Attend trainings, in-services, and meetings as required.
• Maintain professionalism, reliability, and a positive attitude at all times.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Previous caregiving or senior living experience preferred but not required—Better Living will train the right heart.
• Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively.
• Ability to lift, push, pull, or assist residents safely.
• Compassionate, patient, and dedicated to serving older adults.

What Makes Better Living Different

• A mission-first culture rooted in love, purpose, and connection.
• Leadership that supports, mentors, and invests in you.
• A work environment where residents feel like family—and staff do too.
• Programs like Better Days that empower residents to live with meaning and dignity.

Our Promise

At Better Living, we don’t just provide care—we create home.

We show up with heart.

We honor each resident’s story.

And we elevate every moment—together.

We are an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.