Direct Care Worker (Relief/Per Diem)

About MHA

MHA – Mental Health Association is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping people live their best life. We provide a wide range of services across Western Massachusetts, including outpatient therapy, substance use recovery, supports for individuals with developmental disabilities or brain injuries, and residential and housing programs. MHA serves individuals impacted by mental illness, substance use, developmental disabilities, brain injuries, and homelessness. Our mission is rooted in inclusion, dignity, and empowering people to lead fulfilling, independent lives.

About New Ways Services – (ABI Division)

New Way is MHA’s residential and community-based program for individuals living with acquired brain injuries (ABI) due to trauma, stroke, or serious illness. These life changes can bring physical, emotional, and cognitive challenges, and New Way provides the support needed to navigate them. Through personalized care, skill-building, and meaningful daily routines, individuals are supported in gaining independence, reconnecting with others, and living fully in the community. Our homes are safe, accessible, and integrated into typical neighborhoods, offering 24/7 support along with nursing, clinical, and therapeutic services.

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Position Summary

As a Residential Support Specialist, you will provide a supportive and safe environment in a community residential setting that fosters growth, independence, and community engagement for individuals who have experienced a brain injury resulting in physical limitations, mental health, and/or cognitive challenges. Your role requires professionalism and collaboration with team members in alignment with MHA’s Core Values—Respect, Integrity, and Compassion—while adhering to organizational policies, program funding guidelines, and applicable regulatory standards. Relief staff are required to work a minimum of 2 shifts per month, excluding team meetings and trainings, to maintain employment and will be on-call to be utilized throughout the programs as needed to fill shifts.

Pay Rate: $19 an hour

Open Shift: Relief/Per diem

Key Responsibilities

• Engage with participants in a respectful and empowering manner to promote self-esteem, independence, and personal growth.
• Assist participants with daily living tasks such as personal care, meal preparation, shopping, and household maintenance.
• Support participants in accessing community resources, including transportation, education, social activities, and healthcare services.
• Teach and encourage self-advocacy skills while serving as a liaison with families, providers, and external parties.
• Provide financial support through budgeting, money management, and accurate documentation of expenditures.
• Monitor participant health and well-being, assist with medication administration, schedule appointments, and respond to emergencies.
• Maintain accurate, timely documentation including logs, data records, incident reports, and use of agency systems.
• Promote safety by identifying and addressing hazards, assisting with emergency drills, and following agency safety procedures.
• Demonstrate flexibility in scheduling, provide shift coverage as needed, and actively participate in team collaboration.
• Attend all required training, maintain certifications, and uphold professionalism to support program quality and standards.

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, sufficient automobile insurance, an acceptable driving record, and access to a reliable vehicle during working hours.
• Adaptability to participants' changing needs.
• Patience, compassion, and strong interpersonal skills.
• Ability to pass and maintain certifications in medication administration (MAP), CPR, and First Aid.
• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Required Education and Experience
• High school diploma or GED required; college degree in human services or a related field preferred.
• Minimum of six months of relevant experience; experience with individuals with brain injuries, mental health challenges, or developmental disabilities is preferred.