Residential Support Specialist – Part time-Avalon Housing

Job Description

Job Title: Residential Support Specialist – Part time

Company: Avalon Housing

Location: Ann Arbor, MI

Pay: $18 per hour

AI Pay Analysis: An hourly rate of $18 for a “Residential Support Specialist – Part Time” in Ann Arbor, MI, is somewhat competitive but may be on the lower end of the spectrum, depending on the specific responsibilities and required qualifications for the role. Typically, residential support specialists, especially those working with individuals with disabilities or mental health challenges, see rates that range from $15 to $25 per hour, with variations influenced by experience, education, and the employer’s funding sources. Given the cost of living in Ann Arbor, which is relatively high, an $18 hourly wage may suffice for entry-level positions but could be less attractive to more experienced candidates or those requiring advanced skills. Overall, while it aligns somewhat with industry standards, it may require enhancement to attract and retain qualified talent in the area.

Job description:

Hiring Bonus: $500!

At Avalon, we believe that housing is a fundamental human right. Our mission is to establish healthy, safe, and inclusive supportive housing communities as a sustainable solution to homelessness. Avalon Housing operates as a non-profit supportive housing provider, combining affordable housing with essential services such as case management. Our commitment extends beyond merely assisting individuals in finding housing; we emphasize supporting them in thriving within their homes.

If you are passionate about fostering diverse, inclusive, and equitable communities where everyone is welcomed, Avalon may be an ideal environment for you.

The individuals we serve face numerous challenges, including mental illness, substance use disorders, and chronic medical conditions, often accompanied by a history of persistent homelessness. As a Residential Support Specialist (RSS), you will serve as one of Avalon’s dedicated 24-hour front-line support staff. In this role, you will oversee our front desk operations, address tenant and visitor inquiries, and provide hands-on assistance as necessary.

Key benefits for Avalon staff include:

• Paid Time Off: Staff receive vacation time as well as additional sick and personal time allowances, with accrual based on hours worked. Additionally, there is an extra paid holiday each month!
• Medical Benefits: Part-time employees have the option to purchase life, critical illness, and accident insurance at competitive rates.
• Life and Disability Plans: All staff working over 16 hours per week are provided with life insurance and short-term disability plans, fully covered by Avalon.
• 403(b) Retirement Plan: Avalon offers a 403(b) retirement plan through Vanguard, accessible to all employees.

Job Responsibilities:

• Manage visitor check-in and check-out, answer phones, and monitor security systems.
• Ensure the safety and security of residents by overseeing public access areas and enforcing program regulations.
• Respond to crises, address emergencies, and take necessary actions, including contacting emergency response services.
• Coordinate tenant services and liaise with external service providers as required.
• Collaborate effectively with on-site staff and visiting service providers; refer tenants to clinical and other support staff as needed.
• Submit maintenance requests as necessary.
• Attend staff meetings, retreats, and professional training sessions.

Supplemental Job Duties:

• Depending on the location, RSS staff may assist tenants with daily living activities, including transportation, meal preparation, medication management, shopping, and other hands-on support.
• This position entails a weekly on-call shift, compensated at an hourly rate plus a bonus.
• Training is mandated to commence within the first 30 days of hire, with certain training sessions occurring outside of regular shift hours. All training time will be compensated.

Required Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or GED.
• Ability to work effectively with diverse populations, including staff and tenants, in a non-judgmental manner.

Desired Skills and Abilities:

• At least one year of experience in working with individuals experiencing homelessness, mental illness, chronic health issues, or addiction disorders, or relevant educational background in social or behavioral sciences.
• Ability to respond effectively to crisis situations.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Proficiency in computer usage, including email, web navigation, and online documentation.
• A positive and enthusiastic attitude with a strong commitment to supporting individuals in need.
• Interest and experience in engaging individuals who are difficult to connect with and familiarity with harm reduction principles.

Physical Demands:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.

While carrying out the duties of this position, the employee will be required to sit for extended periods, drive a vehicle with passengers, communicate verbally, lift and carry items weighing up to 25 pounds, and operate computer hardware systems. A valid Michigan Chauffeur’s license and reliable transportation are mandatory.

Avalon Housing is an equal opportunity employer, actively seeking applicants from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds, as well as historically marginalized groups. We encourage applications from individuals who identify as LGBTQIA+, people living with disabilities or mental health conditions, and those with lived experiences of homelessness or recovery from substance use disorders.

Additionally, Avalon welcomes candidates with criminal histories to apply. We do not request information regarding criminal histories until an offer of employment is extended and may only consider criminal history in relation to the responsibilities of the position.

Job Posting Date: Mon, 20 Jan 2025 23:21:01 GMT

Apply now!