Mental Health Association - Western MA
Direct Care Worker (CPI/Restraint trained)
Chicopee, MA, USA
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. CPI/Restraint training is required prior to starting in this position. Plus, you’ll receive a $500 sign-on bonus as a thank-you for joining our team—paid after just 3 months of continuous employment!
Essential Functions
Participant Support and Advocacy
Engage with participants respectfully and encouragingly to promote self-esteem and empowerment.
Assist, teach, or monitor participants in personal care, meal preparation, household maintenance, shopping, and other daily living tasks.
Adjust support based on participant needs, including personal care up to total care, transfers, and mobility assistance.
Facilitate community engagement by supporting access to social organizations, public transportation, counseling, educational institutions, and other resources.
Teach self-advocacy skills and serve as a liaison with healthcare providers, family members, and other relevant parties.
Assist with financial matters, including money management training, budgeting, and banking, while maintaining proper documentation of expenditures.
Support community integration by facilitating participation in recreational and social activities.
Provide transportation for participants as needed, ensuring vehicle safety and completion of required training programs.
Participant Health and Wellbeing
Assess individual abilities, interests, and needs to contribute to their Individual Service Plan (ISP) and document progress.
Respond appropriately to emergencies, including medical and crisis situations, while maintaining communication with supervisory personnel.
Report and document incidents of participant abuse or neglect as required by agency and regulatory guidelines.
Assist with medical coordination, appointment scheduling, and medication administration in accordance with MAP standards.
Monitor participant health conditions, recording vital signs and health-related data as necessary.
Documentation
Complete all required program documentation accurately and within established timelines.
Maintain daily logs, data collection records, and shift exchange reports, including money and medication counts.
Report concerns or incidents to supervisory personnel promptly and document them accordingly.
Utilize agency reporting systems, internet-based applications, and other necessary software tools.
Safety
Maintain a safe workplace environment by identifying and addressing hazards and following established safety policies.
Assist with emergency evacuations, conduct fire drills, and ensure compliance with safety regulations.
Teamwork, Communication, and Professional Growth
Be flexible with scheduling and prepared to cover shifts as needed due to operational demands.
Actively participate in team meetings, supervision sessions, and professional development opportunities.
Attend required training sessions and maintain certifications, including MAP, CPR, and First Aid.
Exhibit professionalism, organization, and strong interpersonal skills to support program goals.
Requirements
Valid driver’s license, sufficient automobile insurance, an acceptable driving record, and access to a reliable vehicle during working hours.
Must be CPI/Restraint trained prior to start
Ability to work independently, manage time effectively, prioritize tasks, and collaborate with a team.
Strong communication, organizational, and computer skills.
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.
Physical Demands and Work Environment
Ability to speak, hear, and smell, as well as kneel, sit, push, pull, reach, climb, grasp, type, and write.
Exposure to inclement weather, vehicles, blood-borne pathogens, and computer screens.
Work environment is primarily indoors, with a noise level ranging from quiet to moderate.
Benefits
Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
Retirement Plan (403B, IRA)
Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)
Long Term Disability
$500 Sign-on Bonus paid after 3 months of employment
$500
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