When you think of a career in senior living, your mind might immediately go to nursing roles, such as CNA or RN. While those are vital positions, they’re just part of a larger, more dynamic care team. One made up of professionals from a wide variety of backgrounds, skills, and callings.
At The Kensington Reston, our commitment to Our Promise, to love and care for your family as we do our own, comes to life through an interdisciplinary care team. Each role plays a meaningful part in creating a community that’s safe, vibrant, and deeply compassionate.
If you’re exploring caregiver job types in Reston, here’s a closer look at five rewarding roles that may surprise you, along with why each one is essential in assisted living and memory care.
1. Life Enrichment Coordinator
Think of a Life Enrichment Coordinator as the heart of daily joy. These team members design and lead programs that bring connection, purpose, and fun to our residents’ lives.
Key Responsibilities:
- Planning daily, weekly, and monthly activity calendars
- Leading events like art classes, exercise groups, and games
- Encouraging social engagement and emotional well-being
- Adapting programs for residents with different abilities
Life enrichment professionals build trust and companionship through creativity and empathy. This is an ideal role for someone who loves event planning, working closely with seniors, and making every day meaningful.
Discover how we prioritize engagement through our life enrichment programs.
2. Memory Care Program Lead
Working within our Connections and Haven neighborhoods, Memory Care Program Leads support residents with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.
This role combines clinical awareness with heartfelt interaction, making every moment count for residents who uniquely experience the world.
Key Responsibilities:
- Supporting structured routines to reduce confusion
- Leading small group sensory and cognitive activities
- Guiding others in dementia communication strategies
- Offering emotional reassurance to residents and families
For those with a background in caregiving, social work, or gerontology, this role is both a professional opportunity and a personal calling.
Explore our approach to memory care and how our team promotes cognitive wellness every day.
3. Culinary Services Associate
Food is one of the deepest sources of comfort, memory, and community, especially in senior living. Our Culinary Services Associates help transform mealtime into a meaningful experience.
Key Responsibilities:
- Preparing and serving nutritious, flavorful meals
- Accommodating dietary preferences and restrictions
- Creating warm, restaurant-style dining environments
- Sharing smiles and conversation with residents
This role goes beyond food prep, it’s about building relationships through service. It’s an excellent fit for hospitality professionals who want to make a difference through their culinary talents.
Visit our Careers Page to see current openings in culinary and dining services.
4. Medication Technician
Medication Technicians play a key role in maintaining residents’ health and comfort. They are trained to safely administer medications, observe for side effects, and ensure consistency in residents’ routines.
Key Responsibilities:
- Dispensing medications per resident care plans
- Monitoring for adverse reactions and reporting changes
- Documenting doses accurately
- Assisting with ADLs when needed
This position offers a pathway for caregivers looking to expand their clinical skills in a senior living environment. Many Med Techs go on to pursue nursing degrees after gaining valuable experience in this role.
Interested in certification requirements? Explore the Virginia Board of Nursing’s Medication Aide registration page for training details and how to apply.
5. Concierge or Front Desk Associate
While not a traditional “caregiving” position, our Concierge team is often the first to greet residents, families, and guests. Their warmth and professionalism set the tone for everything else.
Key Responsibilities:
- Welcoming visitors and answering resident requests
- Assisting with scheduling and transportation coordination
- Supporting emergency response communication
- Serving as a helpful resource and calming presence
This role is ideal for someone with strong interpersonal skills who enjoys being a go-to problem solver and a source of stability for residents and families.
Why These Roles Matter
Every member of our team contributes to a culture of care and connection. Whether serving a hot meal, leading a memory game, or offering a comforting word, these roles collectively uphold Our Promise.
For job seekers interested in senior care team roles in Reston, these positions offer:
- Purpose: You see the impact of your work every day.
- Growth: Many roles offer training, mentorship, and career advancement.
- Community: You join a team that values collaboration, inclusion, and empathy.
The Kensington Reston is more than a workplace, it’s a community that supports you as much as it supports residents.
Career Growth and Advancement Opportunities
Working in senior living isn’t just a job, it’s a pathway to a deeply fulfilling career.
At The Kensington Reston, we believe in investing in our team members by providing opportunities for growth both personally and professionally. Whether you’re new to caregiving or looking to expand your clinical skills, we provide tools and mentorship to help you reach your goals.
Opportunities for Advancement Include:
- Paid Continuing Education: We support certifications, CEUs, and license renewals for eligible positions.
- On-the-Job Mentorship: New team members are paired with experienced professionals who provide guidance and training.
- Leadership Development: Internal promotions are common, and we offer clear pathways for moving into supervisory and leadership roles.
- Cross-Department Mobility: Interested in trying a new area of service? We encourage team members to explore different roles such as life enrichment, dining services, or concierge positions.
Our leadership team recognizes talent, celebrates hard work, and promotes from within. Many of our current managers and coordinators began their careers in entry-level roles, such as caregiving or hospitality, and have advanced their careers right here at The Kensington Reston.
Why Work at The Kensington Reston?
When you choose a career with us, you join a team united by heart, driven by excellence, and committed to improving lives.
We offer:
- Competitive compensation and benefits
- Paid training and career development
- A positive, team-oriented environment
- A leadership group that knows your name
You don’t have to be a nurse to make a difference here. You simply need to care deeply and want to grow in a career that truly matters.
To learn more about caregiver job types in Reston and how to join our team, contact us or visit our careers page. Your calling might be waiting at The Kensington Reston.