Residential Assistant (1st shift)

Gateway Foundation, Inc. is a national non-profit dedicated to helping individuals with substance use and mental health disorders. Established in 1968, Gateway provides essential tools and knowledge for recovery, positively impacting hundreds of thousands of lives. The organization is recognized for innovative, effective treatment approaches and maintaining high standards through its Community Services, Corrections Divisions, and Corporate Headquarters.

About the role

Join our team and make a meaningful impact by delivering high-quality clinical services to underserved populations. Gateway Foundation values teamwork, professional growth, and aligns careers with personal values, offering both personal and professional fulfillment.

Responsibilities

• Observe patients and monitor behavior to ensure safety and adherence to program guidelines
• Report incidents, behavioral concerns, medical issues, or missing patients to appropriate staff in a timely manner
• Document observations and patient interactions in accordance with policy
• Supervise and participate in daily patient activities and routines
• Conduct regular bed checks and patient counts in accordance with policy and procedures
• Assist with check-ins, reinforce rules, and encourage engagement in treatment
• Support a structured and therapeutic environment
• Provide input to treatment team regarding patient behavior, progress, and concerns
• Assist in maintaining consistency in behavioral expectations and interventions
• Coordinate and drive patients to appointments, work, school, or approved activities
• Perform basic administrative tasks (phones, filing, documentation support, scheduling as needed)
• Support patient events and structured activities
• Assist with educational groups or activities under supervision, in accordance with state regulations
• Collect specimens and administer screenings (e.g., urine, breathalyzer) as permitted by policy and training

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED required; related experience in the behavioral field preferred
• Must be at least 21 years of age to operate company vehicles and meet all driver eligibility requirements, including a valid driver’s license and acceptable motor vehicle record, in accordance with company policy and insurance guidelines
• Demonstrated ability to maintain appropriate professional boundaries, consistently enforce program rules and expectations, and interact with patients in a compassionate, respectful, and recovery-oriented manner
• Strong observation, communication, documentation, and de-escalation skills required

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, and move throughout the facility for extended periods while supervising and interacting with patients
• Ability to observe and assess patient behavior, including recognizing changes in physical condition or safety risks
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing, with patients, staff, and external parties
• Ability to respond appropriately in emergency or crisis situations, including implementing de-escalation techniques
• Ability to operate standard office equipment and complete documentation using electronic systems
• Ability to drive and travel locally to transport patients and attend meetings, as required
• Ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds occasionally

Pay

Compensation ranges from $16.60 to $18.00 per hour, based on experience and credentials. Gateway Foundation conducts annual reviews including merit increases.

Schedule

Tuesday through Saturday from 7:00am to 3:00pm.

Benefits

• Health and Wellness: Medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees and dependents
• Employee wellness program promoting health and fitness and offering cash-saving premiums
• Employee assistance programs focused on mental health
• Financial Wellbeing: 403(b) Retirement Plan with 3% employer match
• Short-term and Long-term Disability and Life and AD&D Insurance paid for by Gateway
• Flexible Spending Accounts for medical and dependent care
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)
• Flexibility and Time Off: 18 paid time off days per year – accrual rates increase with years of service
• 9 paid company holidays
• Personal Development: Training & Development Programs
• Tuition Reimbursement - up to $5,250 per calendar year
• eLearning access to online courses that provide CEUs and job-related training
• Clinical Supervision: Formal and informal guidance