Residential Specialist - Residential Services (Billings, MT)

AWARE in Billings, Montana is seeking a compassionate Residential Specialist to provide high-quality care to individuals with developmental disabilities. This role supports daily living activities, fosters personal growth, and maintains a safe, inclusive environment within the residence.

About the role

The Residential Specialist implements treatment plans, documents well-being, and collaborates with individuals to assess strengths and skills in daily living. Our team is dedicated to providing unconditional care, and we offer a supportive, inclusive work environment with opportunities for professional growth.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with individuals to assess strengths and skills in daily living, empowering them to participate in meaningful activities that foster independence and personal growth.
• Support individuals in navigating personal challenges or conflicts with empathy, therapeutic guidance, and positive coping strategies.
• Report to the Residential Manager regarding missing documentation, client issues, or staff concerns.
• Assist the Residential Manager with scheduling, interviews, training, and other administrative tasks as needed.
• Review the Day Program Communication Log daily and communicate issues to the Residential Manager.
• Perform daily documentation checks, including Treatment Plans, Clinical Notes, Staff Notes, Communication Logs, and Structured Leisure Activities.
• Ensure an appropriate weekly menu is posted and meals are prepared properly.
• Organize and facilitate structured group activities daily.
• Provide supervision and companionship during daily activities such as work, recreation, and community outings, ensuring safety and inclusion.
• Assist with basic care, including hygiene, meal preparation, household chores (e.g., laundry), and maintaining a safe, welcoming living space.
• Plan, accompany, and oversee community and group activities (recreational, vocational, educational) to build skills and promote empowerment through choice.
• Implement and adhere to Individual Treatment Plans, Behavior Management Plans, Independent Living Plans, and Personal Support Plans using a trauma-informed approach.
• Observe, report, and document individuals' physical, emotional, and behavioral well-being in daily logs, critical incident reports, and AWARE’s Electronic Medical Records System.
• Shop for residence and individual needs, prioritizing choices that support autonomy.
• Assist with phone calls and family visits, facilitating connections respectfully.
• Assist in medication distribution programs as assigned, ensuring safety and protocol adherence.
• Transport individuals to work, appointments, and activities as needed to promote independence.
• Use trauma-informed de-escalation techniques (e.g., H.E.L.P.) and perform basic First Aid/CPR when necessary, prioritizing least restrictive interventions.
• Attend mandatory training, in-services, staff meetings, and committees as assigned.
• Complete and pass training in H.E.L.P., Medication Certification, First Aid/CPR, Blood Borne Pathogens, SHED Safety, Safe Vehicle Operations, SDS, HIPAA, Professional Caregiver, AWARE’s Behavioral Competency (ABC), Client/Employee Health and Safety, and Behavior Intervention Skills.
• Utilize and accurately record data in AWARE’s Electronic Medical Records System and Balanced Score Card Performance system while maintaining confidentiality.

Requirements

• At least three (3) years of experience and/or an associate degree in a Human Services field, or a bachelor’s degree in any field with a minimum of two years of related Human Services experience.
• Ability to implement individual support plans under AWARE’s Unconditional Care Philosophy, with knowledge of behavioral techniques and interventions.
• Computer literacy, including proficiency in performance-based software and electronic medical records systems.
• Strong interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills to work as a team member, make observations, and follow instructions.

Pay

$21.00 - $23.00 per hour to start.

Benefits

• Health Insurance
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• Health Savings Account (HSA)
• 401k
• Employee Assistance Program
• Tuition Advancement
• Professional Development

Schedule

Full-time, on-site position.