1st Shift Direct Care

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 the Division of Recovery Services (DRS)

MHA’s Division of Recovery Services (DRS) supports individuals of all ages who are navigating mental health and substance use challenges. Our youth residential programs serve adolescents involved with the Department of Children and Families (DCF) who are working through behavioral health needs in a safe, structured environment.

DRS also provides residential and outreach support for adults in recovery or currently living with addiction, many of whom may also experience co-occurring mental health concerns. Through compassionate, trauma-informed care, we help individuals build coping skills, restore stability, and work toward long-term recovery and wellness.

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Position Summary

Direct Care Workers will provide a supportive environment in a community residential setting, empowering the participants who have been impacted by homelessness, psychiatric diagnosis, trauma, and/or addiction in achieving their vision of recovery and rehabilitation, focusing on strength and resiliency through person-centered planning. They will perform responsibilities professionally, in accordance with MHA’s Core Values (Respect, Integrity, and Compassion), organizational mission, policies, practices, program funding and applicable regulatory agency guidelines. 

Pay Rate: $20 an hour

Open Shift: Tuesday through Saturday 8am-4pm (40h)

Key Responsibilities

• Support participants with daily routines (cooking, cleaning, hygiene, etc.)
• Teach life skills and promote independence
• Provide transportation to appointments or activities
• Encourage self-advocacy and connect participants to community resources
• Facilitate group activities and house meetings
• Respond to health or behavioral concerns using supportive strategies
• Maintain accurate documentation and uphold safety protocols

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

• High school diploma or GED
• Human services experience is preferred
• Valid driver’s license
• Reliable transportation to utilize during work hours
• Auto insurance with your name listed as an insured driver on the policy
• Strong communication skills and a team-first mindset
• Patience, compassion, and the ability to adapt to participant needs
• Ability to pass background checks and required certifications (MAP, CPR, First Aid)

Benefits

• Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
• Retirement Plan (403B, IRA)
• Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
• Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)
• Long Term Disability
• $20 an hour