The Residential Assistant supports students with complex disabilities by implementing IEP objectives, collecting performance data, and fostering independence. They also provide direct care, maintain a safe environment, and collaborate with educators to support student growth.
Requirements summary
A high school diploma or equivalent is required, with an associate or bachelor degree preferred. Candidates should have experience working with students with special needs and a willingness to obtain necessary certifications like CPR and First Aid.
high schoolassociate degreebachelor degreeDocumentationCollaborationCPRProblem-solvingFirst aidData collectionCrisis managementHygiene assistanceDirect careBehavior supportSpecial educationIEP implementationAAC devicesStudent safetyAmerican sign languageSafety-care training
Job description
Perkins helps children with disabilities find their place in the world.
An international NGO, we are committed to delivering best-in-class education to children, providing immersive training and support to professionals and families, advocating for inclusion, and accelerating innovation for people with disabilities.
At Perkins, we think courageously, act collaboratively, and we own our work.
Join a supportive community committed to growth where your work makes a difference.
Are you passionate about education and eager to make a real difference in the lives of students?
Join us as a Residential Assistant in our Residential Programs and help our students lead more independent lives.
You will have a direct impact on students with complex disabilities and visual impairments.
In this vital role, you'll support our educators and help our students thrive.
We provide flexible schedules, as well as free on-campus housing and meal options, when available!
What you can expect as a Residential Assistant Student Instruction & IEP/Expanded Core Curriculum Implementation Skills Teach or assist students to achieve specific IEP objectives.
Assist in developing, implementing, and documenting measurable IEP goals, objectives, and strategies.
Collect and accurately document student performance data using program-specific logs and data systems.
Support student independence, self-confidence, and development of social, organizational, and other critical skills.
Take initiative in planning, providing age-capacities and facilitating student participation.
Demonstrate understanding of the general curriculum and the Expanded Core Curriculum.
Provide individualized language and communication modeling based on student needs, including the use of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices and American Sign Language (depending on program).
Student Safety & Direct Care Skills Maintain a safe and secure environment, using sound judgment and problem-solving skills.
Provide and monitor direct care (e.g., hygiene, toileting, showering, feeding, dressing, lifting/transferring) tailored to each student’s abilities.
Respect student privacy and dignity while providing appropriate physical assistance.
Benefits
Dental insurance
Vision insurance
Medical insurance
Paid time off
Tuition reimbursement
Referral bonuses
Flexible spending accounts
Long-term disability insurance
401(k) plan
Employee assistance program
Wellness programs
Legal services
Employer-paid life insurance
Employee recognition programs
Health reimbursement arrangement
Credit union access
Pre-tax mbta passes
Behavior Support & Crisis Management Skills Implement individual Behavior Support Plans and de-escalation techniques.
Apply Safety Care strategies effectively to manage student behaviors.
Collaboration & Professional Development Skills Participate in staff development, training, and student/staff meetings.
Collaborate with colleagues to support student learning and program goals.
Education/Experience: High School diploma or equivalent required, Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree preferred Experience working with students with special needs , either in a classroom setting, through volunteer work or in another professional setting preferred Willingness to complete and maintain First Aid and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), Safety-Care Training, Automated External Defibrillator (AED), and Sign Language (dependent on program needs) Additional Duties & Specialized Skills Provide classroom or cottage coverage, including Teacher and Related Service Provider absence coverage.
Actively assist students in clinical, physical/recreational, and off-campus activities (e.g., PT, OT, SLP, therapeutic pool, gym, track, field trips, driving).
Willingness to train for Perkins Vehicle Driver Clearance.
Willingness to train in and provide G-tube water/feeds as appropriate.
Perform other tasks and duties as assigned.
The following shared salary range is what Perkins reasonably expects, in good faith, to pay for the position.
The applicable range could differ based on experience and qualification. $17.68-$28.18 Perkins offers a comprehensive benefits package for part time and full time employees, including: Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance Wellness programs available.
Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA) Flexible Spending Accounts Employer-Paid Life & Long-Term Disability Insurance 401(k) Plan with employer match Education Benefits: Tuition reimbursement day one Paid Time Off Extras: Employee Recognition Programs, EAP, legal services, referral bonuses, credit union access, pre-tax MBTA passes and more!
Perkins is a mission-driven community that supports your well-being at work and beyond.
We are located in the heart of Watertown, adjacent to the Charles River and less than 1 mile from food & entertainment at Arsenal Yards.
Perkins is an equal opportunity employer.
View the Perkins Notice of non-discrimination.
Through Perkins’ core programs and services, we work to fulfill our mission of serving children and young adults with multiple disabilities and their families around the globe, as well as the educators, professionals and researchers who support them, by focusing on innovation and excellence in educational services, accessibility and professional development.
At Perkins, diversity and inclusion are at the core of our mission and we firmly believe that people with different backgrounds and experiences bring unique and necessary perspectives.
If you are interested in an opportunity and your past experience doesn’t match every requirement listed in the job description, we wholeheartedly encourage you to apply.
You may be a great fit for this opportunity or others at Perkins.
Market context
Resident Assistant roles in South Dakota
Resident Assistant openings in South Dakota often reflect steady demand in settings serving students with special needs, where consistency and support skills matter. These roles are competitive because employers may prefer candidates with postsecondary education, relevant experience, and readiness to earn CPR and First Aid certifications. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save time, then confirm your experience with student support and certification plans before applying.
