PROGRAM AIDE - MEDICATION
Our Story
The West Side Federation for Senior and Supportive Housing, Inc. (WSFSSH) is a community‐based organization whose mission is to provide safe, affordable housing with supportive services within a residential setting which enhances the independence and dignity of each person. WSFSSH develops, manages, and provides housing for low‐ income older persons, many of whom live with mental illness and/or have experienced homelessness.
Position Description
The Program Aide Medication Aide (PAM) provides hands-on personal care assistance and supports safe medication administration to older adults and/or residents with disabilities in a nonprofit senior/supportive housing setting. Additionally, PAMs will assist residents with daily living including eating/dining, escorting to appointments, and helping residents participate in recreational activities inside and outside of the residence.
This is a full-time, onsite role (5) days a week.
Responsibilities will include:
-
Administer orassistwith self-administration of routine medications aspermittedby state regulations and organizational policy (e.g., oral, topical, inhalers, eye/ear drops—based on authorization).
-
Follow the“rights”of medication administration (right resident, medication, dose, route, time, documentation) and infection control practices.
-
Observe and report changes in resident condition (vitals if trained/assigned, cognition, mood, gait, skin integrity, appetite, pain, safety risks).
-
Respond to urgent situations per protocol and escalate to the Medication Coordinator asappropriate.
-
Assistwith eating/feeding as needed, following diet orders and safety guidelines (e.g., aspiration precautions if applicable).
-
Escort residents todoctorsand other appointments.
-
Visit residents who are hospitalized.
-
Assistresidents inparticipatingin recreational activities.
-
Complete service notes, shift logs, incident reports, and care documentation accurately and on time.
Required Skills / Abilities
-
Demonstrated ability to provide respectful, hands-on personal care and to support medication processes safely.
-
Ability to recognize and promptly report adverse reactions, changes in condition, or medication discrepancies.
-
Strong communicationskills, sound judgment, and ability to stay calm in urgent situations.
-
Basic computer/mobile technology skills for documentation and timekeeping.
-
Ability to follow written care plans and verbal instructions accurately.
-
ProficientEnglish communication skills (verbal and written) sufficient for care documentation; bilingual skills a plus based on resident needs.
Education & Experience
-
High school diploma or GEDrequired(or preferred based on program requirements).
-
CPR/First Aid certification required or ability to obtain within a specifiedtimeframe.
-
Minimum 2years' experienceprovidingcare and/or medicationassistanceto older adults or individuals with disabilities preferred (home care, assisted living, supportive housing, SNF, etc.).
Physical Requirements
-
Primarily on-site in resident apartments and commonareas;may require walking/standing for extended periods.
-
Must be able toassistwith transfers and mobility support; ability to lift/push/pull per job needs (often up to 35–50lbs.with proper techniques/equipment).
-
Schedule may include evenings, weekends, and holidays depending on resident needs.
Benefit Overview
Westside Federation for Senior & Supportive Housing offers full-time employees a comprehensive choice of benefits that include Medical, Dental, Vision, 403(b) retirement savings, Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA), Life & Disability, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), commuter benefits and more. Voluntary benefit options and time off include 11-12 paid Federal Holidays as well as vacation and sick time.
EEO Statement
WSFSSH is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EEO); employment is based on qualifications, without discrimination on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, military status, citizenship status, genetic predisposition or carrier status, or any other protected characteristics as established by law.
