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Residential Program Assistant Jobs in Springfield, VA

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Residential Program Assistant information

See Springfield, VA salary details

$22.5K

$47.8K

$65.8K

How much do residential program assistant jobs pay per year?

As of May 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for residential program assistant in Springfield, VA is $47,757.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,200.00 and $49,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Residential Program Assistant, and why are they important?

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 some 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 Residential Program Assistants?

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 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.

Infographic showing various Residential Program Assistant job openings in Springfield, VA as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,757 per year, or $23 per hour.
Residential Program Specialist

Residential Program Specialist

Woodley House

Washington, DC

$20/hr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

Residential Program Specialists are expected to oversee residents in a therapeutic environment of care that is supportive, calm, and engaging. Residential Program Specialists provide supportive services, including case management to residents. They are responsible for medication monitoring, meal planning and overseeing and assisting residents as they prepare meals and complete household chores. Residential Program Specialist assist residents with their activities of daily living and write progress notes. The Residential Program Specialist are part of a comprehensive and integrated team.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
  • Contributes to therapeutic milieu of the environment and leads community meetings as scheduled.
  • Monitors medication according to program guidelines.
  • Prepares scheduled and planned meals and snacks for residents, observes dietary restrictions and guidelines of specific residents.
  • Completes all required documentation, including but not limited to: intake paperwork with residents, daily progress notes, incident reports and participates in discharge planning in accordance with program guidelines.
  • Assists residents with activities of daily living, including but not limited to cooking, laundry, hygiene, budgeting, and cleaning.
  • Provides case management and care coordination services.
  • Assists in resolving disputes amongst residents.
  • Ensure that all residents attend scheduled appointments with health providers, including providing transportation.
  • Communicate directly and in writing any observed changes in resident behavior to supervisor or Woodley House clinical staff, and resident’s community care providers accordingly.
  • Ensure that residents receive immediate access to appropriate care in the event of a psychiatric or medical emergency.
  • Provides supportive services to residents as indicated.
  • Cleaning responsibilities include but are not limited to the following, as assigned: Clean and sanitize restrooms/bathrooms, Clean, dust, and wipe furniture; sweep, mop, or vacuum floors; empty/clean wastebaskets and trash containers; empty and clean outdoor cigarette receptacles; replace light bulbs; and refill restroom dispensers.
  • Maintain and execute confidential information per HIPAA standards.
  • Consults with physicians, nurses, dietitians, and therapists to ensure streamlined and top-quality care for residents.
  • If the Residential Program Specialist identifies signs of a consumer’s potential harm to self or others, then Residential Program Specialist will utilize emergency protocols to address situation accordingly and notify Program Manager and Clinical Director or their designees.

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Fully cooperates with the organization's compliance and quality improvement program.
  • Participates in staff meetings and trainings as assigned.
  • Performs additional related duties as assigned by their respective supervisor.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
  • Demonstrates patience and empathy.
  • Basic understanding of mental health disorders.
  • Basic computer skills i.e., Microsoft Office and Zoom.
  • Exhibits strong organizational skills.
  • Maintains a friendly, encouraging, outgoing and compassionate demeanor.
  • Possesses excellent interpersonal and conversational skills.
  • Possesses excellent problem-solving and conflict resolution skills.
  • Communicates clearly and effectively.
  • Works calmly and efficiently in a crisis.
  • Able to climb stairs and lift at least 25 pounds.
  • Must have a valid driver’s license.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
  • Preferred bachelor’s degree in the field of Behavioral Health.
  • If no bachelor’s degree, equivalent years’ related work experience in the field of Behavioral Health.
  • Cultural competence.
  • Crisis management skills.
  • Knowledge of medications preferred.

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 the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.
In the course of performing the job, this position typically spends time sitting, standing, climbing stairs, walking, driving, carrying (20lbs), and lifting (20lbs). Operating a computer keyboard, firm/strong grasping, and repetitive hand control. Able to complete all forms in personal writing. Makes and receives telephone calls. Use of general office equipment, copier, scanner, fax machine Subjected to outside environmental conditions.