Residential Care Specialist

Position Number:

County:
Saline

Posting End Date: 01/15/2026

Theresa Davis

Special Entry Rate: $33,280.00/Annually

Frequent driving of buses or vans required. Occasional exposure to violent and physically aggressive residents may be required. Flexible hours (evening and weekend work required). Must be able to sit or stand for long periods of time. May require lifting up to 50 pounds and repetitive manual work.

The Department of Human Services is a place for people passionate about serving others and changing lives for the better. We care for Arkansans of all ages and ensure places like child care centers and nursing homes are safe. We are the safety net for the most vulnerable Arkansans. Whether you answer the phones, take applications, protect children, or help care for residents or patients at one of our facilities, you make a difference by working s, working for the State has great perks, including a pension, maternity leave, paid state holidays, and much more.

At DHS, we take care of our employees so you can help care for others.

Job Series: Residential Care – Career Path

Classification: Residential Care Specialist

Class Code: PRC
04P

Pay Grade: SGS
01

Salary Range: $33,280 - $49,254

The Residential Care Specialist provides direct care, supervision, and support to individuals residing in a state-operated residential facility. This entry-level position focuses on assisting residents with daily living activities, fostering a safe and supportive environment, and ensuring compliance with individualized care plans.

• Assist residents with daily living activities, including personal hygiene, dressing, meal preparation, and mobility.
• Monitor and document residents' behaviors, conditions, and progress according to care plans.
• Ensure resident safety and well-being by implementing supervision procedures and emergency protocols.
• Provide basic health and wellness support, such as administering prescribed medications under supervision.
• Utilize positive reinforcement and de-escalation techniques to manage resident behaviors.
• Support residents in developing independent living skills such as money management and communication.
• Assist with conflict resolution and peer mediation as needed.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and structured living environment for residents.
• Follow state regulations, facility policies, and safety procedures related to resident care.
• Report any concerns, incidents, or changes in resident behavior to supervisors in a timely manner.

• Demonstrated ability to work with individuals who may have developmental disabilities, mental health conditions, or behavioral challenges.
• Ability to communicate effectively with residents, families, and staff members.
• Strong listening skills and the ability to provide clear instructions or redirection.
• Ability to remain calm and composed in high-stress situations.
• Basic knowledge of de-escalation techniques and conflict resolution strategies.
• Attention to detail in documenting resident progress and reporting concerns.
• Ability to follow structured care plans while adapting to residents' evolving needs.

Ability to read and write.

N/A

The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.