RESIDENTIAL CARE SPECIALIST

This position is located at the Arkansas State Hospital, a 24/7 behavioral health facility in Little Rock, AR. The Department of Human Services serves Arkansans of all ages, ensuring safety in child care centers, nursing homes, and other facilities. DHS is the safety net for the most vulnerable, offering perks such as a pension, maternity leave, and paid state holidays.

About the role

The Residential Care Specialist provides direct care, supervision, and support to individuals residing in a state-operated residential facility. This entry-level position focuses on assisting residents with daily living activities, fostering a safe and supportive environment, and ensuring compliance with individualized care plans.

Responsibilities

• Assist residents with daily living activities, including personal hygiene, dressing, meal preparation, and mobility.
• Monitor and document residents' behaviors, conditions, and progress according to care plans.
• Ensure resident safety and well-being by implementing supervision procedures and emergency protocols.
• Provide basic health and wellness support, such as administering prescribed medications under supervision.
• Utilize positive reinforcement and de-escalation techniques to manage resident behaviors.
• Support residents in developing independent living skills such as money management and communication.
• Assist with conflict resolution and peer mediation as needed.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and structured living environment for residents.
• Follow state regulations, facility policies, and safety procedures related to resident care.
• Report any concerns, incidents, or changes in resident behavior to supervisors in a timely manner.

Skills

• Demonstrated ability to work with individuals who may have developmental disabilities, mental health conditions, or behavioral challenges.
• Ability to communicate effectively with residents, families, and staff members.
• Strong listening skills and the ability to provide clear instructions or redirection.
• Ability to remain calm and composed in high-stress situations.
• Basic knowledge of de-escalation techniques and conflict resolution strategies.
• Attention to detail in documenting resident progress and reporting concerns.
• Ability to follow structured care plans while adapting to residents' evolving needs.

Requirements

• Ability to read and write.

Other job-related education and/or experience may be substituted for all or part of these basic requirements, except for certification or licensure requirements, upon approval of the Qualifications Review Committee.

Pay

Anticipated starting salary: $33,280.00. Salary range: $33,280 - $49,254.

Schedule

This is a full-time position at a 24/7 behavioral health facility.