Residential Assistant

Perkins; Watertown (MA); On-site; USD 25,000 - 39,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance

401(k) Plan with employer match

Education Benefits: Tuition reimburse-

Paid Time Off

Job summary

Perkins, located in Watertown, MA, is seeking a Residential Assistant to join a mission-driven community that supports students with disabilities. You’ll work with experienced educators to empower independence and growth, with flexible full-time schedules and potential on-campus housing and meals.

You will assist with daily living activities, model communication through AAC or ASL, and help students navigate therapy, gym activities, field trips, and recreational programs.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent required; Associate’s or Bachelor's degree preferred.
• Experience with individuals with special needs preferred.
• Willingness to train and maintain First Aid/CPR, AED, Safety Care, and Sign Language certifications.

Responsibilities

• Empower students to achieve IEP and ECC goals.
• Model language and support AAC/ASL communication.
• Provide direct care including hygiene, mobility, and transfers.
• Create a safe environment using de-escalation and Safety Care techniques.
• Support students in therapy pools, gym activities, field trips, and recreation.

Skills

Experience with individuals with...

ASL (American Sign Language)

First Aid/CPR certified

Mobility assistance

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Associate's or Bachelor's degree preferred

Job description

Perkins helps children with disabilities find their place in the world. An international NGO, we are committed to delivering best-in-class education to children, providing immersive training and support to professionals and families, advocating for inclusion, and accelerating innovation for people with disabilities. At Perkins, we think courageously, act collaboratively, and we own our work. Join a supportive community committed to growth where your work makes a difference.

What you can expect as a Residential Assistant:

When you join Perkins as a Residential Assistant, you aren't just taking a job, you’re joining a warm, mission-driven community that invests in your professional growth while you empower extraordinary students to thrive. We offer flexible full time schedules to meet your needs, as well as the potential for on campus housing and meals!

How you will make an impact:

As a Residential Assistant across residential classroom settings, you will work alongside experienced educators and specialists to empower students to build independence and confidence.

• Empower Student Success: Teach and guide students through their individualized education goals (IEPs) and the Expanded Core Curriculum.
• Bridge Communication: Model language and help students communicate using Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices or American Sign Language (ASL).
• Provide Compassionate Direct Care: Support daily living activities (hygiene, toileting, showering, feeding, dressing, lifting, mobility) with dignity, respect, and heart.
• Create a Safe & Supportive Environment: Utilize de-escalation strategies and Safety Care techniques to help students navigate challenges safely.
• Engage Beyond the Classroom: Assist students during therapeutic pool sessions, gym activities, off-campus field trips, and recreational activities.

Education/Experience:

• Education: High School Diploma or equivalent required (Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree preferred).
• Passion & Experience: Experience working with individuals with special needs—whether through classroom work, professional caregiving, or volunteering is preferred.
• Growth Mindset: Willingness to train and maintain certifications in First Aid/CPR, AED, Safety Care, and Sign Language (provided by Perkins).
• Physical Requirements: Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and assist students with physical transfers/mobility.
• Valid Driver's License: Willingness to train for Perkins Vehicle Driver Clearance is a plus!

The following shared salary range is what Perkins reasonably expects, in good faith, to pay for the position. The applicable range could differ based on experience and qualification.

$17.68-$28.18

Perkins offers a comprehensive benefits package for part time and full time employees, including:

• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance Wellness programs available.
• Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA)
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Employer-Paid Life & Long-Term Disability Insurance
• 401(k) Plan with employer match
• Education Benefits: Tuition reimbursement day one
• Paid Time Off
• Extras: Employee Recognition Programs, EAP, legal services, referral bonuses, credit union access, pre-tax MBTA passes and more!

Perkins is a mission-driven community that supports your well-being at work and beyond. We are located in the heart of Watertown, adjacent to the Charles River and less than 1 mile from food & entertainment at Arsenal Yards.

Perkins is an equal opportunity employer. View the Perkins Notice of non-discrimination.