Residential Assistant - Behavioral Health at Mental Health Kokua – Captain Cook, Hawaii

Support recovery and stability for adults living with mental illness in Kailua-Kona. This full-time, on-site role provides hands-on daily living support in a shared housing environment, helping residents build routines, confidence, and independence.

Mental Health Kōkua (MHK) is hiring a Residential Assistant in Kona to support adults with mental illness in community-based housing. Residential Assistants play a critical role in maintaining safety, consistency, and recovery-oriented support within the home.

This position is ideal for individuals who enjoy active, meaningful work and want to support others in building daily living skills and long-term stability.

This role is well-suited for applicants living in Kailua-Kona or nearby West Hawaiʻi communities.

What You’ll Do (Responsibilities)

• Daily Living Support: Assist residents with communication, personal care, meals, and routines
• Safety & Crisis Response: Maintain safety, respond to emergencies, and document incidents
• Recovery-Oriented Support: Encourage goals using person-centered, trauma-informed practices
• Program Activities: Support social, recreational, vocational, and educational activities
• Community Engagement: Support resident participation in community activities and responsibilities
• Household Operations: Assist with shopping, cleaning, and basic upkeep
• Documentation & Communication: Complete documentation and communicate resident needs
• Team Collaboration: Work with supervisors, case managers, and team members

Residential Assistant Qualifications

• Minimum: High school diploma or equivalent
• Preferred: Experience or coursework in behavioral health, human services, or supportive housing
• Skills: Reliability, compassion, clear communication, and emotional resilience
• Certifications: TB clearance, CPR, and First Aid (or willingness to obtain)
• Fit for the Role: Ability to work respectfully with individuals living in shared, community-based housing

Requirements & Work Conditions

• Ability to pass a criminal background check and alcohol/drug testing
• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs and respond to emergencies in a residential setting
• Ability to work assigned schedules, including evenings, weekends, or holidays

Benefits of Joining Mental Health Kokua

• Medical & Vision Insurance (UHA or Kaiser)
• Dental Insurance (HDS)
• Supplemental Insurance (Aflac)
• Pet Insurance
• 403(b) Retirement Plan
• Identity Theft & Legal Protection
• Paid Leave & Holiday Pay
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) eligibility

Why Mental Health Kokua?

Our mission is “Opportunities to Begin Again.” Every role at Mental Health Kokua supports recovery, stability, and dignity for people living with mental illness across Hawaiʻi. By supporting community-based housing programs in Kona, your work helps individuals build skills, confidence, and meaningful connections in a place they can call home.

Behind every success story is someone like you offering steady support and encouragement. Join us and apply today!