At a Glance
- Tasks: Support individuals with brain injuries in daily living and community engagement.
- Company: Join a compassionate team dedicated to empowering those with physical and cognitive challenges.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible part-time hours, professional development, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while growing your skills in a caring community.
- Qualifications: Must be 18+, have a valid driver's license, and possess strong communication skills.
- Other info: Work overnight shifts (Thurs-Sat) and participate in ongoing training and certifications.
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.
Schedule: Part-time, 30 hours per week (Thurs, Fri, Sat 11pm – 9am)
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.
- Valid driver’s license, sufficient automobile insurance, an acceptable driving record, and access to a reliable vehicle during working hours.
- 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.
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3rd Shift Direct Care (Overnights) employer: Mental Health Association - Western MA
Contact Detail:
Mental Health Association - Western MA Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land 3rd Shift Direct Care (Overnights)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of individuals who have experienced brain injuries. Understanding their challenges and how to support them will show your commitment to the role and help you connect with potential employers.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight any relevant experience in caregiving or support roles during your conversations. Sharing real-life examples of how you've positively impacted someone's life can make a strong impression.
✨Tip Number 3
Demonstrate your knowledge of MHA's Core Values—Respect, Integrity, and Compassion—during interviews. Be prepared to discuss how these values align with your personal philosophy and past experiences.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with professionals in the field of direct care. Attend local workshops or community events related to mental health and caregiving to build connections that could lead to job opportunities.
We think you need these skills to ace 3rd Shift Direct Care (Overnights)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of a Residential Support Specialist. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experiences that align with the essential functions outlined.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise any previous experience in direct care, support roles, or working with individuals with disabilities. Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills in advocacy, personal care, and community engagement.
Showcase Your Values: MHA values Respect, Integrity, and Compassion. Make sure to reflect these core values in your application. Share instances where you have demonstrated these qualities in your professional or personal life.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A well-presented application shows professionalism and attention to detail, which is crucial for this role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Mental Health Association - Western MA
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Residential Support Specialist. Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of individuals who have experienced brain injuries and how your role can support their growth and independence.
✨Demonstrate Compassion and Patience
During the interview, showcase your ability to be compassionate and patient. Share examples from your past experiences where you successfully supported individuals facing challenges, highlighting your interpersonal skills.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills in emergency situations or when dealing with participant needs. Think of relevant examples beforehand to illustrate your approach and decision-making process.
✨Showcase Teamwork Skills
Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively with team members. Discuss any previous experiences where you contributed to a team environment, as this role requires strong communication and teamwork to ensure participant well-being.