Support Worker | Mental Health

About the role

CSPNJ, a mental health nonprofit agency, is looking for full-time Support Worker(s). Under the direction of the Deputy Director, the Support Worker provides direct support, skill development, and community resource linkages to residents who have a psychiatric and/or substance use disability. The Support Worker provides services geared toward enabling residents to live independently and work toward realizing their full potential. In this role, the Support Worker will work mainly in the field (70–80%) meeting with residents on their service plans and assessing their needs. Progress notes should be completed conjointly at the time of service and comply with regulatory standards.

Responsibilities

• Provide person-centered, collaborative support designed to give residents the knowledge, skills, and resources needed to live in the most independent setting possible and address emergent issues for self-care.
• Advocate for and facilitate the development of community-based support systems to enhance stability, independence, and overall quality of life.
• Build collaborative relationships with community organizations, service providers, and support networks to expand access to essential resources, including housing, healthcare, employment, education, and social services.
• Advocate on behalf of residents to ensure their needs are addressed and their rights are protected while empowering individuals to strengthen self-advocacy skills.
• Promote community engagement and the creation of sustainable support networks that encourage social inclusion, long-term self-sufficiency, and successful community integration.
• Complete clear, concise, timely, and accurate billable progress notes in accordance with clinical and regulatory requirements.
• Carry out essential domestic responsibilities in support of daily living.
• Provide consistent support to multiple residents while prioritizing tasks and managing time effectively.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in a mental health–related discipline preferred; alternatively, a high school diploma with 3+ years of related work or lived experience.
• Strong communication skills that promote collaboration and positive relationships.
• Patience and emotional resilience; ability to remain calm under pressure, demonstrate sound judgment, and adapt effectively to changing situations.
• Proficient in MS Office products and general computer literacy.
• Ability to effectively engage and support individuals with mental health diagnoses through empathy, professionalism, and trauma-informed approaches.
• Valid New Jersey driver’s license with an acceptable driving record.
• Bilingual skills a plus.

Lived Experience

CSPNJ values the perspectives of individuals who have used their own experiences with mental health and/or substance use challenges to inspire, support, and empower others.

Benefits

• Medical, free DMO dental, and free vision coverage
• 6 weeks PTO
• 11 paid holidays
• Added compensation for on-call rotation and any outreaches needed

Pay

Hourly rate: $19.23 – $21.63 based on education and experience.