# 1st Shift Direct Care (LGBTQIA+)

**Company:** [Mental Health Association - Western MA](http://jobs.workable.com/companies/opJukTGsYqy4dZaxRWdUBY.md)
**Location:** Holyoke, United States
**Workplace:** on site
**Employment type:** Full-time
**Department:** Division of Recovery Services (DRS)

[Apply for this job](http://jobs.workable.com/view/c223692d-3de0-4580-8826-77d1cd4d5cfd)

## Description

### **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