There are different types of jobs at assisted living facilities. The experience and qualifications required will depend on the type of position that you would want to apply for. Working in assisted living can be a very rewarding job and can make a huge impact in the lives of senior citizens. Here are some common positions and the qualifications needed to apply for such jobs.
Administrators help run the facilities smoothly. The executive director of an assisted living facility should have experience in long term care, staff management, marketing, and employee relations. There is not a national license, but certain states do require certification and a college degree in a related field.
Nurses are needed in assisted living facilities. To be an assisted living nurse you need the skills, qualifications, and education required to be considered a licensed nurse. You must have earned an appropriate degree from a college or university to be licensed in this field.
Activities directors plan the activities and fun for the seniors in an assisted living facility. Depending on the facility, you might need different sorts of experience for this job. Usually someone fun, creative, and organized can fill this position. You can find a list of parties and games to use with assisted living residents here.
Chefs are needed to cook meals in assisted living facilities. Typical requirements to be a chef in restaurants or the hospitality field also carry over to being a chef in an assisted living facility.
Some general jobs, like helping with the residents, may not require any special experience or education just a person who is willing to serve and care for seniors. However, some facilities do have strict regulations. You will need to check with the particular facility to find out qualifications for these positions.
There are some universal skills that are needed regardless of what job you are in. Most people in an assisted living facility will come into contact with the residents in some capacity. Therefore, it is super important that you can deal well with senior citizens. Not all seniors may be nice to the workers so it is important to have a temperament to stay calm and act courteous regardless of how the resident acts. If you feel you have the qualifications and desire to apply for a job in an assisted living facility, make sure to take a look at the answer to this question: How do I apply for a job in elder care?
