Residential Support Specialist (RSS)

Job Description

Job Description

Benefits:

• Competitive salary
• Dental insurance
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Vision insurance

Position Summary
The Residential Support Specialist (RSS) provides direct care, structure, and supervision to residents within the ASAM Level 3.1 Clinically Managed Low-Intensity Residential Program, as defined by the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services (DBHDS). This role ensures a safe, therapeutic, and recovery-oriented environment consistent with DBHDS 3.1 staffing and program criteria, which require 24-hour onsite allied health staff presence and 24/7 physician consultation availability.

The RSS supports residents in achieving treatment goals by maintaining safety, modeling recovery principles, documenting progress, and fostering personal responsibility, emotional growth, and independence.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide 24-hour milieu supervision , ensuring resident safety, accountability, and adherence to DBHDS and ALIGN Community & Treatment Services (ACTS) program standards.
• Conduct scheduled wellness, safety, and room checks in compliance with Level 3.1 staffing expectations.
• Support residents’ daily routines, including life skills development, hygiene, meal preparation, community integration, and social interaction.
• Assist residents in following individualized treatment and recovery plans, encouraging engagement in groups, therapy sessions, and recovery-related activities.
• Monitor and document resident behavior, mood, and progress in accordance with DBHDS documentation requirements (12VAC35-105-1630 & 12VAC35-105-1640) .
• Communicate behavioral or safety concerns promptly to the clinical and medical teams.
• Participate actively in team meetings, case reviews, and supervision to promote consistency and quality of care.
• Support medication observation and administration while ensuring compliance with prescribed regimens.
• Maintain facility cleanliness and assist with household tasks, meal preparation, and inventory checks.
• Uphold confidentiality, professional ethics, and trauma-informed practices in accordance with all federal, state, and agency regulations, policies, and procedures.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required; associate’s or bachelor’s degree in Human Services, Psychology, or related field preferred.
• One (1) year of experience in behavioral health, residential, or substance use treatment preferred.
• Valid driver’s license and clean driving record.
• Successful completion of criminal background and central registry checks.
• CPR, First Aid, and medication administration certification (within 90 days of hire).
• CNA, QMHP, or related credentials preferred.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Knowledge of substance use recovery, relapse prevention, and co-occurring mental health conditions.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and de-escalation skills.
• Ability to maintain clear, timely, and accurate documentation.
• Capacity to work independently while maintaining alignment with team and clinical direction.
• Professional, empathetic, and consistent approach with residents.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to remain alert during assigned shifts.
• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs and respond quickly in emergencies.
• Ability to stand, walk, or sit for extended periods during an 8-hour shift.

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time, PRN