1

Residential Program Assistant Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Program Assistant-Re-entry

Detroit, MI · On-site

$34K - $43K/yr

Program Assistant Cherry Health provides Person Centered Reentry Services to ease the transition ... Services include 24-hour residential treatment in a structured environment with individual and ...

Program Assistant-Re-entry

Detroit, MI · On-site

$37K - $47K/yr

Services include 24-hour residential treatment in a structured environment with individual and ... The Program Assistant is responsible for the coordination of shift coverage when needed. This ...

Program Assistant-Re-entry

Detroit, MI · On-site

$37K - $47K/yr

Services include 24-hour residential treatment in a structured environment with individual and ... The Program Assistant is responsible for the coordination of shift coverage when needed. This ...

What You'll Do Program Management * Enforce house rules and maintain overall centersecurity ... Residential institutional setting * Quiet to moderate noise level * Some warehouse/store exposure ...

What You'll Do Program Management * Enforce house rules and maintain overall center security ... Residential institutional setting * Quiet to moderate noise level * Some warehouse/store exposure ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Residential Program Assistant information

See Michigan salary details

$18.7K

$39.9K

$54.9K

How much do residential program assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for residential program assistant in Michigan is $39,850.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32,700.00 and $41,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Residential Program Assistant vs Residential Counselor?

AspectResidential Program AssistantResidential Counselor
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require relevant certificationsHigh school diploma; certifications like CPR or first aid often preferred
Work EnvironmentSupportive residential settings, assisting staff and clientsDirectly supervises residents, providing counseling and support
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in social services, youth programs, and community agenciesCommon in mental health, youth residential facilities, and rehabilitation centers
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for entry-level roles in residential settingsCompared for direct client interaction roles

The Residential Program Assistant typically provides support within residential programs, assisting staff and ensuring smooth operations. In contrast, a Residential Counselor works directly with residents, offering counseling and supervision. Both roles require similar credentials and are found in social service environments, but their primary responsibilities differ in level of direct client engagement.

What is a residential program assistant?

Residential Program Assistants are staff members who provide support and supervision to residents in group homes, dormitories, or other residential facilities. They help ensure a safe, supportive environment by assisting with daily living activities, organizing recreational programs, and addressing residents' needs. Their responsibilities often include monitoring resident behavior, facilitating communication between residents and other staff, and helping to implement individualized care or support plans.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a residential program assistant?

To thrive as a Residential Program Assistant, you typically need experience or education in social services, psychology, or a related field, along with knowledge of client care and support procedures. Familiarity with case management software, documentation systems, and sometimes CPR or first aid certification is commonly required. Strong interpersonal skills, patience, and the ability to work collaboratively are essential soft skills in this role. These competencies enable effective support of residents' daily needs and contribute to a safe, nurturing, and well-managed living environment.

What are common challenges residential program assistants face when supporting residents, and how can they be managed?

Residential Program Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing diverse resident needs, resolving conflicts, and maintaining clear boundaries while fostering supportive relationships. Effective communication, patience, and adaptability are crucial for addressing these challenges. Team collaboration and regular supervision meetings provide valuable opportunities to share experiences and receive guidance. Ongoing training and a supportive work environment also help assistants develop strategies for managing stress and promoting a positive living atmosphere.
What are the most commonly searched types of Residential Program jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Residential Program jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Residential Program Assistant jobs in Michigan? For Residential Program Assistant jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Residential Program Assistant jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Residential Program Assistant jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Residential Program Assistant jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Residential Program Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Residential Program Assistant job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,850 per year, or $19.2 per hour.

Program Assistant-Re-entry

Cherry Health

Detroit, MI • On-site

$34K - $43K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Cherry Health rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Program Assistant

Cherry Health provides Person Centered Reentry Services to ease the transition back into the community for individuals transitioning from closed custody correctional facilities. Services are available at two locations: our Community Treatment Center (CTC) in Detroit and Community Alternatives Program (CAP) in Grand Rapids. Services include 24-hour residential treatment in a structured environment with individual and group counseling services. Some participants come to us directly from a correctional facility, while others come as part of a diversion program to keep them out of prison. Together, we work to address health issues (including behavioral health issues) and other reentry needs i.e., employment, education, housing, and fostering connections to help justice system involved persons successfully reintegrate back into their respective communities.

The Projected schedule:

40 hours/week

10 hour/day

Friday and Saturday 3pm-1am

Sunday and Monday 10am-8pm

The Program Assistant provides support to Residential Care Coordinator Supervisors and Residential Care Coordinators on each shift. The Program Assistant is responsible for the coordination of shift coverage when needed. This includes but is not limited to daily operational oversight of the RCC Department in providing custody, security, and oversight to clients within the residential facility while maintaining order within the facility and enforcing all rules, regulations, and policies. Must adhere to the organizational Policies, Procedures, Code of Ethics, and all licensing and accreditation standards of the position. Must represent the organization's Mission in all actions and communications.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Assist with monthly RCC meetings according to the assigned shift and attend monthly All Staff Meetings
  • Report all concerning and/or atypical circumstances to the Program Manager immediately.
  • Assist with after-hours on-call emergency response as assigned by Program Manager and Site Managers.
  • Assists with monitoring supply procurement process that adheres to Cherry Health's standards. Monitors, maintains inventory, and purchases facility supplies.
  • Monitors the residential facility's policies and procedures related to security and living arrangements (in-house or home confinement).
  • Oversees random room, facility, and/or vehicle searches.
  • Assists with audit preparations, corrective action tasks, and follow-through.
  • Provides narrative and statistical reporting.
  • Assists in the development of program rules, regulations, and procedures.
  • Provides on-call emergency response; cover shifts when needed.
  • In partnership with Cherry Health Human Resources, oversees the admission, orientation, supervision, and discharge of program residents to include adding new admissions.
  • Maintains the maintenance of records per Cherry Health and FBOP requirements of alcohol/drug testing logs, sign-in/sign-out logs, fire drill/evacuation logs, pat search log, facility search log, daily sanitation log, incident report log, vehicle search log, visitor log, medication storage/distribution logs, etc.
  • Remains responsive in meeting the needs of the resident population.
  • Oversee/coordinate urine drops assigned to Residential Care Coordinators; prepare urine billing, order urine test cups, and breathalyzer tubes.
  • Coordinate fingerprinting of both staff, new hires, and new resident admittances.
  • Develop and maintain effective working relationships and work collaboratively with CTC staff and Administration.
  • Perform other tasks as assigned by Supervisor.

SKILLS / KNOWLEDGE / ABILITIES:

  • Have a valid and clean Michigan driver's license and access to transportation for the performance of job duties.
  • Knowledge of federal criminal justice systems and community correctional programming
  • Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills
  • Ability to work independently and effectively with minimal supervision
  • Strong technology skills including, but not limited to, the Internet and Microsoft Office Suite
  • Ability to exercise good judgment in appraising situations and decisions
  • Ability to identify and maintain agency and resident confidential information
  • Knowledge of re-entry program services, resident needs, and management techniques
  • Knowledge of theories and issues in substance use treatment, including familiarity with the major techniques current in us

KEY VALUES:

  • Customer Service
  • Collaboration
  • Integrity
  • Respect
  • Professionalism
  • Learning

EDUCATION / LICENSES / CERTIFICATES:

Bachelor's degree in human services or related field preferred or an equivalent combination of education and experience. CPR certification required.

EXPERIENCE:

Direct care experience required. Experience in mental health, substance abuse or correctional type residential program is strongly preferred or an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job listed above.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Possible exposure to patients/clients with illnesses and/or infections. Frequent telephone and computer use, requiring manual dexterity for writing and computer use. Sitting, standing or walking for extended periods of time. Specific vision abilities required by this job may include close vision, distance vision, and ability to adjust focus. May require bending, squatting, or kneeling and lifting up to 50 pounds. Use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) as required.

CLIENT POPULATION SERVED:

Adults

Who we are:

Cherry Health, Michigan's largest Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC), operates in six counties across the state, is based in Grand Rapids. With a team of more than 800 health care professionals at 20 locations, Cherry Health focuses on removing barriers, expanding access, and delivering comprehensive quality health care services to underserved communities, regardless of an individual's insurance status or ability to pay. We provide primary care, dental, vision, behavioral health, pharmacy services, substance abuse services, residential re-entry services, school-based health centers and more.

Our Mission:

Cherry Health improves the health and wellness of individuals by providing comprehensive primary and behavioral health care while encouraging access by those who are underserved.

Our Vision:

Our community will be healthier because we will seek out and welcome those who need our services. All will be treated as family with integrated, coordinated care to improve health and personal well-being.

Our Values:

  • Collaboration – Support the Cherry Health mission by encouraging teamwork to accomplish organizational goals.
  • Customer Service – Serve internal and external customers in a welcoming manner with compassionate care.
  • Innovation – Embrace creativity to improve patient care and workplace efficiency while remaining curious and open to learning.
  • Integrity – Uphold the highest ethical standards by being honest and trustworthy.
  • Professionalism – Create a positive work environment where we care accountable for our decision, our action and the results.

Benefits:

Cherry Health has excellent benefit offerings dependent on employment status. Check out a sample of the benefits available to our team members below!

  • Loan repayment through the NHSC and Michigan State Loan Repayment Program for select roles
  • Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance for you and your family
  • Generous Paid Time Off benefit – 4 weeks per year for full time
  • Paid holidays - 8 full day paid holidays (Including Black Friday!) and 2 half day paid holidays!
  • 403(b) Retirement Savings Plan with generous employer match - $ for $ match up to 5%
  • MET and MESP 529 Savings Plans
  • Pet Insurance!
  • Employee Assistance Program

Our policy is to offer all employees and applicants for employment equal opportunity without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, height, weight, sexual orientation, gender identity, or status as a covered veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws, or any other protected category.


What Cherry Health employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom