Job Description

Certified Medication Aide / Direct Support Professional (CMA/DSP)

Top Care Mental Health Services

Location: Roanoke, Virginia

Reports To: Program Manager / Nurse / QMHP-A / Compliance Manager

Position Summary

The Certified Medication Aide / Direct Support Professional (CMA/DSP) plays a dual role in providing both medication administration and direct care support to individuals residing in Top Care Mental Health Services' licensed residential programs. This position ensures that all residents receive person-centered care in a safe, supportive, and therapeutic environment consistent with DBHDS, DMAS, and Virginia Board of Nursing regulations.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Medication Administration (CMA Functions)

Administer prescribed medications accurately and on schedule per physician orders and agency protocols. Document all medication administrations, refusals, and errors promptly in the Medication Administration Record (MAR). Observe residents for side effects, adverse reactions, or behavioral changes and report findings immediately to nursing or supervisory staff. Maintain medication storage security, perform medication counts, and dispose of expired medications in accordance with Virginia Board of Nursing regulations. Assist with medication ordering, refills, and coordination with pharmacies as directed. Participate in audits, inspections, and quality assurance checks of medication records. Maintain strict confidentiality and compliance with HIPAA and DBHDS privacy regulations.
Direct Support (DSP Functions)

Provide person-centered support to residents with mental health, behavioral, and/or co-occurring disorders. Assist with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) such as bathing, grooming, dressing, toileting, and eating. Support residents with Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs), including budgeting, meal preparation, laundry, and housekeeping. Encourage independence and skill development in alignment with individualized service plans (ISPs). Implement behavioral support plans as directed by QMHP or clinician and document progress in daily notes. Assist residents with transportation to appointments, community activities, or outings to promote inclusion and recovery. Participate in crisis de-escalation and emergency procedures following agency and DBHDS guidelines. Maintain accurate and timely progress notes, shift reports, incident documentation, and communication logs. Model appropriate social behavior, communication, and coping strategies to promote residents' emotional and social growth. Support residents in achieving their service goals and maintaining a healthy living environment.
Qualifications

Current Virginia Board of Nursing Certification as a Certified Medication Aide (CMA) required. High School Diploma or GED required; post-secondary training in Human Services or related field preferred. Current CPR/First Aid certification. Must successfully complete DBHDS-required DSP orientation, including Human Rights, Medication Administration (if applicable), and Behavior Intervention training. Must pass Virginia State Police Background Check, Central Registry Check, OIG Disqualification Check, and TB screening. Experience in mental health, ID/DD, or residential settings preferred. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Ability to work effectively under supervision and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
Physical and Environmental Requirements

Ability to stand, walk, and assist residents throughout the day. Lift or move up to 25 pounds as needed. Exposure to normal residential living conditions; may include assisting residents with behavioral challenges or crises. Must be flexible to work evenings, weekends, holidays, and overnight shifts as needed.
Core Competencies

Person-Centered Support Medication Safety and Documentation Empathy and Patience Crisis Intervention and De-escalation Team Collaboration Professionalism and Confidentiality
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time, Contract

Pay: $17.00 - $24.00 per hour

Benefits:

Flexible schedule
People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

Shift availability:

Day Shift (Preferred) Night Shift (Preferred) Overnight Shift (Preferred)
Ability to Commute:

Roanoke, VA 24013 (Preferred)
Ability to Relocate:

Roanoke, VA 24013: Relocate before starting work (Preferred)
Work Location: In person