1st Shift Direct Care (LGBTQIA+)

Position Summary

The Residential Recovery Specialist (RRS) supports residents in a safe, structured, LGBTQIA+-affirming and trauma-informed environment. This role helps residents follow their individualized treatment plans, engage in recovery and relapse‑prevention efforts, and build independent living skills. The RRS plays a vital role in fostering a respectful, inclusive, and recovery-focused community that affirms residents’ identities, lived experiences, and self-determination.

Pay Rate: $20 an hour

Open Shift: Tuesday 7am-4pm, Wednesday & Thursday 7:30am-3pm, Friday 7:30am-3:30pm, Saturday 8am-4pm (40hrs)

Key Responsibilities

• Support resident activities in alignment with program policies, individualized treatment goals, and a structured daily routine.
• Provide trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and LGBTQIA+-affirming care, including crisis intervention and de-escalation.
• Maintain a living environment that is safe, respectful, and inclusive of diverse sexual orientations, gender identities, and expressions.
• Assist residents with daily living tasks, independent living skills, and participation in recovery-focused and community-based activities.
• Facilitate or co-facilitate groups and activities that promote recovery, emotional wellness, identity affirmation, and peer support.
• Model respectful communication, including the consistent use of residents’ chosen names and pronouns.
• Transport residents as needed and maintain safe, organized, welcoming program spaces.
• Document resident progress, administer medications per MAP certification, and promote a person-centered, recovery-oriented, and strengths-based approach.
• Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team to support residents in achieving stability, empowerment, and long-term recovery.

About the GRIT Program

The GRIT program at MHA provides residential rehabilitation for individuals with substance use challenges and co-occurring mental health conditions. Residents participate in individualized counseling, recovery-focused programming, and community activities such as education, job training, or employment, all within a structured and supportive environment. With locations in Springfield (men’s programs) and Holyoke (LGBTQIA+ program), GRIT combines the comforts of home with access to vital resources. A skilled, multidisciplinary team works closely with each resident to support recovery, personal growth, and long-term stability, while creating personalized aftercare plans for a successful return to the community.

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

• Valid driver’s license, safe and reliable vehicle, and acceptable driving record.

• High school diploma or equivalent (GED) preferred; must be at least 18 years old.
• Experience working with LGBTQIA+ individuals or in affirming environments strongly preferred.
• Experience supporting individuals impacted by homelessness, trauma, psychiatric diagnoses, and/or substance use.
• Demonstrated comfort and competency working with diverse sexual orientations, gender identities, and expressions.
• Ability to work independently, manage time effectively, and prioritize tasks.
• Strong oral, written, organizational, and basic computer skills.
• Ability to foster community, model respectful boundaries, and create a sense of belonging in a residential setting.
• Willingness to engage in ongoing learning related to equity, inclusion, trauma-informed care, and identity-affirming practices.
• Ability to pass and maintain MAP, CPR, and First Aid certifications.

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