Residential Advisor - Therapeutic Community

Residential Advisor

Gould Farm

Boston Area Programs – Fellside

Medford, Massachusetts

Position Overview

Gould Farm is seeking a Residential Advisor (RA) with a passion for recovery and a deep belief in people’s ability to heal. Fellside is a transitional residential program within Gould Farm’s Boston Area Programs that serves as a launchpad for individuals moving from our farm-based program toward greater independence. Residents are supported in securing meaningful work, ongoing clinical care, and engagement in recreational, wellness, and community-based activities.

As part of a tiered support approach, Fellside’s Extended Community program provides ongoing clinical case management during this transition. The Residential Advisor plays a vital role in fostering life skills, confidence, and community connection during this important phase.

Role Summary

Supervised by the Program Director and working as part of a collaborative team, the Residential Advisor supports residents in developing independent living skills and strengthening their capacity for community reintegration. The RA builds on residents’ strengths, promotes community life, and contributes to a safe, respectful, and welcoming residential environment.

Key Responsibilities

Life in the House

• Organize and lead community activities such as potlucks, game nights, arts and crafts, mindfulness exercises, outings, and recreational activities.
• Support residents with menu planning, meal preparation, and kitchen cleanup.
• Partner with staff on food, office, and household supply inventory, ordering, and organization.
• Maintain the general appearance of Fellside by attending to indoor and outdoor cleaning and grounds, in collaboration with residents and staff.
• Coordinate with outside vendors, repair, and maintenance professionals as requested by administrative staff.
• Participate actively in community life, bringing forward individual talents and strengths.
• Promote dignity, respect, and high-quality care for all residents.

Individual Support for Residents

• Support residents in using coping skills and wellness strategies, both in person and by phone.
• Provide support to Extended Community members during respite stays at Fellside.
• Assist residents in navigating public transportation, obtaining directions, or providing transportation when authorized.
• Support residents in accessing online and community resources aligned with personal goals.
• Conduct medication check-ins as needed, in accordance with program guidelines.
• Assist residents seeking volunteer and paid employment opportunities.
• Orient visiting Farm guests to local resources and transportation options.

Administrative and Program Support

• Maintain accurate documentation in the electronic health record (EHR).
• Read and contribute to daily residential logs and professional documentation.
• Oversee the program’s monthly “Front Porch” newsletter.
• Provide coverage for absent staff as needed and respond to emergencies, including participation in the on-call system.
• Follow established crisis plans in coordination with on-call staff.
• Uphold all Gould Farm and Boston Area Programs policies and guidelines.
• Participate in staff, clinical, residential, and community meetings and trainings.

Qualifications

This position is well-suited for individuals interested in the mental health field. Prior experience in residential settings or human services is preferred. Candidates must demonstrate maturity, strong written and verbal communication skills, patience, flexibility, and a sense of humor. A valid driver’s license is required.

This is a full-time, live-in position offering employer-provided, substance-free housing on site and represents an excellent skill-building opportunity for those pursuing a future career in mental health.

Commitment to Diversity

Gould Farm is an equal opportunity employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, pregnancy, religion, marital status, parental status, physical or mental ability, mental health, age, veteran status, ancestry, national or ethnic origin, genetics, political beliefs, or any other status protected by law. Candidates who contribute to Gould Farm’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion are strongly encouraged to apply.

Compensation and Benefits

$20.00–$22.00 per hour, based on experience. Gould Farm offers a comprehensive benefits package including:

• Medical and dental insurance (employer pays 85% of premiums and up to 100% of deductible)

• Life insurance

• Generous paid time off (5 weeks of vacation and holidays during the first two years; 6 weeks thereafter)

• Generous sick time accrual

• 401(k) retirement plan

• Low-cost employer-provided housing, including utilities

• Generous food benefit

How to Apply

Interested candidates should contact the Human Resources Director at (413) 528-1804 or submit a cover letter and resume to @email.