Residential Support Staff

Job Description

Job Description

RB Residential Support Staff

Position Summary:

The Residential Support Staff (RSS) provides direct, front-line support and supervision to residents in a 24/7 mental health treatment environment. The RSS is responsible for maintaining a safe, therapeutic milieu, assisting clients with activities of daily living (ADLs), and ensuring the facility’s daily schedule is followed. As a key member of the direct-care team, the RSS monitors resident behavior, implements de-escalation techniques when necessary, and provides essential documentation to the clinical team.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

1. Client Supervision and Safety

• Provide continuous 24/7 supervision of residents to ensure a safe and supportive environment.
• Conduct regular, documented safety checks and "rounds" according to facility protocol.
• Monitor resident interactions and intervene using approved non-violent crisis intervention (NCI) or de-escalation techniques to manage behavioral disruptions.
• Assist residents with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), including hygiene, room cleanliness, and physical health needs.

2. Milieu Management

• Facilitate the daily facility schedule, ensuring residents attend meals, clinical groups, and appointments on time.
• Lead non-clinical psychoeducational activities and community meetings as assigned.
• Model healthy social boundaries and professional behavior for residents at all times.
• Coordinate and supervise recreational activities and outings to promote social engagement.

3. Documentation and Communication

• Maintain accurate, real-time documentation of resident behavior, significant incidents, and shift logs in the Electronic Medical Record (EMR) system.
• Provide detailed "hand-off" reports to incoming shifts to ensure continuity of care and safety.
• Report all clinical concerns or safety risks immediately to the Nursing staff or the Mental Health Professional (MHP) on duty.
• Assist in the collection of vitals or supervised toxicology screenings as required by the medical team.

4. Operational Support

• Assist with the admission and orientation of new residents, including baggage searches and facility tours.
• Ensure the facility remains clean and orderly; report maintenance or safety hazards to the Operations Manager.
• Provide safe transportation for residents to off-site medical or psychiatric appointments as needed.

Qualifications

Education and Experience

• Minimum Requirement: High School Diploma or equivalent (GED).
• Preferred: Associate or bachelor’s degree in a human services field (Psychology, Social Work, etc.).
• Experience: Prior experience in a behavioral health, residential, or hospital setting is highly preferred.

Certifications and Clearances

• Must pass all state-mandated background checks.
• Current CPR/First Aid certification (or ability to obtain during onboarding).
• Certification in a recognized crisis intervention model (e.g., CPI, NCI) is preferred.
• Valid Driver’s License with a clean driving record.

Knowledge and Skills

• Ability to maintain strict professional boundaries and confidentiality (HIPAA).
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to remain calm and empathetic in high-stress situations.
• Basic computer literacy for documentation and communication.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand or walk for extended periods (8–12-hourshifts).
• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs.
• Ability to physically intervene in the event of a behavioral crisis according to trained safety protocols.