Job Location: Leominster, MA
Work Setting: On-site residential program setting
Position Type: Part-Time
Reports To: Program Manager, Emergency Housing and GPD Programs
Supervises: None
Position Overview
The Residential Specialist supports the Emergency Housing Assistance (EHA) program by helping maintain a safe, clean, structured, and supportive residential environment for Veterans experiencing homelessness or housing instability. Residential Specialists provide on-site coverage during assigned shifts, monitor resident activity, support program expectations, respond to safety concerns, complete shift documentation, and communicate resident and facility needs through the appropriate chain of command.
The EHA program provides temporary housing and supportive services designed to help Veterans establish a foundation for long-term stability and transition toward permanent housing. The program supports Veterans through housing stabilization, employment opportunities, education, healthcare engagement, and connection to community resources.
Because the EHA program operates 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, this role provides critical coverage during assigned evening, overnight, weekend, and holiday shifts. Veterans residing in the program may present with a wide range of needs, including behavioral health concerns, medical conditions, substance use challenges, crisis situations, and limited natural supports. This position requires strong professional judgment, reliability, clear communication, and the ability to respond calmly and professionally to resident concerns, emergencies, and program needs.
Key Responsibilities
Resident Support and Supervision
-
Monitor resident activity and behavior to support compliance with facility policies and program expectations.
-
Provide assistance to residents as needed, in accordance with established procedures.
-
Treat all residents with dignity, respect, and a trauma-informed approach.
-
Offer supportive listening and communicate identified resident needs or concerns to the Case Manager, Facility Coordinator, or appropriate program leadership.
-
Maintain appropriate professional boundaries while supporting a safe, structured, and respectful residential environment.
Facility Oversight
-
Conduct regular rounds of the facility as required by policy.
-
Help ensure sleeping areas, bathrooms, and common spaces remain clean, safe, and orderly.
-
Confirm that all entrances and exits are secure and maintain situational awareness of individuals inside the building.
-
Support lights-out, quiet hours, and other residential program expectations.
-
Wake residents in the morning and assist with established daily routines and program expectations.
-
Identify and report facility, maintenance, security, cleanliness, or supply concerns in a timely manner.
Safety and Emergency Response
-
Monitor for safety concerns, including health, behavioral, substance use, security-related, or environmental issues.
-
De-escalate conflicts calmly and respectfully in accordance with training and established procedures.
-
Respond to medical emergencies and notify emergency services when needed.
-
Complete incident reports for accidents, altercations, unusual events, safety concerns, or other reportable situations.
-
Follow all safety procedures, including fire drills, evacuation plans, emergency response procedures, and facility security protocols.
Administrative and Communication Responsibilities
-
Maintain accurate shift logs documenting resident activity, incidents, issues, and facility concerns.
-
Report incidents, resident concerns, and facility issues to the Case Manager, Facility Coordinator, or appropriate program leadership in a timely manner.
-
Communicate important updates to incoming staff during shift transitions.
-
Assist with inventory tracking, including supplies, bedding, hygiene products, and other resident or facility materials.
-
Participate in scheduled staff meetings, training sessions, and other program coordination activities as required.
Requirements
-
High School Diploma or GED required; college coursework in Human Services, Social Work, Psychology, or a related field preferred.
-
Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
-
Ability to enforce rules and maintain professional boundaries with residents.
-
Ability to complete documentation accurately and on time.
-
Ability to work independently, exercise sound judgment, and respond professionally to resident concerns and emergencies.
-
Must successfully pass a background check and any required clearances.
Preferred Qualifications
-
Prior experience in a facility, residential, shelter, security, Veteran services, or human services settings strongly preferred.
-
Experience working with individuals with PTSD, substance use disorders, behavioral health needs, homelessness, or housing instability.
-
Training in CPR, de-escalation techniques, and trauma-informed care preferred.
-
Military or Veteran experience is not required but is strongly valued.
-
Strong judgment, flexibility, and adaptability in changing environments.
Working Conditions and Physical Requirements
-
Ability to complete walkthroughs of the facility.
-
Ability to stand for extended periods of time.
-
Ability to bend, reach, and lift up to 25 pounds.
-
Work is performed in an indoor residential facility setting.
-
Regular interaction with Veterans experiencing homelessness, housing instability, behavioral health challenges, substance use concerns, medical conditions, or other crisis-related needs.
-
Overnight coverage is required. Holiday coverage may be required based on program needs.
Application Requirements
All applicants must submit:
-
Resume
-
A brief statement describing your interest in serving Veterans and contributing to the mission of Veteran Pathways of New England.
-
Professional references may be requested later in the hiring process.
Schedule
This is a part-time position scheduled for 8 hours per week. The assigned schedule is one overnight shift each week.
Assigned Schedule:
Friday: 11:00 PM – 7:00 AM
Additional shifts may be available based on program needs, staffing coverage, and employee availability. Additional hours are not guaranteed and must be approved in advance.
Compensation
This is an hourly position with a pay range of $21.63–$23.07 per hour. The final offer will be based on experience, qualifications, and available grant funding.
Benefits
-
Meaningful work directly supporting Veterans experiencing homelessness and housing instability.
-
403(b) retirement plan.
-
Training and professional development opportunities.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Veteran Pathways of New England is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to building a team that reflects the communities we serve. Veterans, individuals with disabilities, and candidates from all backgrounds are welcome and encouraged to apply.
