Residential Assistant

Job Description:

Residential Assistant -

Homeless Veterans Program Overview:

Life Community Development operates a transitional and/or supportive housing program dedicated to assisting homeless veterans achieve stable housing, increased income/benefits, and greater self-determination. This program provides a safe, structured, and supportive environment for veterans to address barriers to stability.

Position Title:

Residential Assistant (RA)

Reports To:

Program Manager/Case Manager Supervisor Position Type:

[Full-time/Part-time/On-call] - [Non-Exempt/Exempt]

Position Summary:

The Residential Assistant (RA) is an essential frontline staff member responsible for ensuring the safety, security, and well-being of the residents (homeless veterans) and the proper functioning of the residential facility during assigned shifts. The RA provides direct support, monitors resident activity, enforces house rules, and responds to crises, fostering a supportive and structured living environment conducive to recovery and stability.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Facility and Resident Monitoring (Direct Service): Conduct regular security rounds of the facility (interior and exterior) at prescribed intervals. Monitor resident activities in common areas and ensure adherence to program rules and schedules (e.g., curfews, chores, group attendance). Perform check-ins and check-outs for residents, including breathalyzer and/or drug screenings as required by program policy. Maintain accurate and thorough daily logs, shift reports, and incident reports documenting resident activities, behaviors, and any significant occurrences. Answer program phones, screen visitors, and control access to the facility. 2.

Safety, Security, and Crisis Response:

Respond to and effectively manage behavioral crises, conflicts, and emergencies (medical, mental health, facility-related) following established protocols. Administer CPR/First Aid/Narcan (if trained and certified) during emergencies. Conduct emergency drills (e.g., fire drills) as scheduled. Report facility maintenance, repair, and safety issues immediately to the appropriate staff. 3.

Program Support and Administration:

Assist with resident orientation and intake procedures, ensuring new residents understand house rules, program structure, and safety procedures. Provide transportation for residents to appointments, meetings, or other approved activities using agency vehicles, as needed. Assist with inventory, distribution, and organization of program supplies (e.g., linens, hygiene kits, food bank items). Attend and participate in required staff meetings, supervision, and trainings. Ensure the facility remains clean, organized, and presentable. 4.

Supportive Interaction:

Establish professional, supportive, and therapeutic relationships with residents. Offer encouragement, positive reinforcement, and practical assistance to veterans in meeting their goals. Refer residents with specific needs (case management, clinical, medical) to the appropriate program staff. Maintain strict resident confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA and organizational policy.

Required Qualifications:

Education:

High School Diploma or GED required. Associate's or Bachelor's degree in a related field (Social Work, Psychology, Criminal Justice) preferred.

Experience:

Minimum of one (1) year of experience working in a residential setting, shelter, or with vulnerable populations (e.g., homeless, veterans, substance use/mental health issues).

Knowledge/Skills:

Strong de-escalation, conflict resolution, and crisis management skills. Ability to enforce rules consistently and fairly with diverse individuals. Basic computer proficiency (Word, Excel, email, electronic health records a plus). Understanding of the challenges faced by homeless veterans, including PTSD, substance use disorder, and mental health issues, is highly desirable.

Other:

Must be able to pass a criminal background check and drug screen. Valid state driver's license and insurable driving record. Must be able to work flexible hours, including weekends, overnights, and holidays. Veteran status is a plus, but not required.

Physical Requirements:

Ability to sit, stand, walk, bend, and lift up to 25 pounds routinely. Ability to navigate stairs and conduct routine facility rounds. Ability to maintain concentration and quickly respond to emergency situations.

Job Type:

Full-time Pay:

$16.50 - $22.00 per hour

Work Location:

In person