3rd Shift Direct Care (LGBTQIA+)

Job Description

Job Description

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: Friday & Saturday 11pm-8am, Sunday & Monday 10pm-7am (36hrs)

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