Shelter Specialist

Job Title: Shelter SpecialistReports To: Shelter ManagerFLSA Status: Non-Exempt / HourlyLocation: Hannahs Place ShelterPosition SummaryThe Shelter Specialist helps maintain a safe, supportive, and trauma-informed emergency shelter environment for individuals and families impacted by domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking. This position provides direct shelter support during assigned shifts, assists with resident needs and shelter operations, responds to crisis calls after completing required training, supports intake and orientation processes, maintains accurate documentation, and helps uphold all shelter safety, confidentiality, and agency protocols.Essential ResponsibilitiesResident Support and Shelter CoverageProvide in-house support and supervision for shelter residents during assigned shifts.Help create a safe, welcoming, respectful, and trauma-informed environment for all residents.Respond to resident requests for basic needs, supplies, and general support in accordance with shelter policies.Monitor resident arrivals, departures, and common-area activity consistent with shelter guidelines.Support residents in understanding shelter expectations, routines, and shared-space responsibilities.Crisis Response and Hotline DutiesAnswer crisis hotline and shelter-related calls in a calm, compassionate, and trauma-informed manner after completing required agency training.Provide initial crisis support, de-escalation, information, referrals, and next-step guidance within the scope of the role.Coordinate with on-call staff, advocates, supervisors, or emergency responders when a situation requires escalation.Complete required documentation for crisis calls, incidents, and shift activity in a timely and accurate manner.Admissions, Intake, and OrientationAssist with shelter admissions in coordination with on-call staff and other designated team members.Prepare rooms and supplies for incoming residents.Support intake, orientation, and initial shelter transition processes according to agency protocol.Help ensure new residents receive basic information about shelter routines, safety expectations, and available support.Safety, Security, and Facility SupportHelp maintain shelter safety and security throughout the shift, including monitoring doors, alarms, and access as required by agency procedure.Report concerns related to resident safety, facility issues, maintenance needs, or unusual incidents promptly to the Shelter Manager.Help maintain cleanliness, organization, and readiness of shelter spaces, including shared areas, laundry, linens, and supply storage.Monitor shelter inventory and communicate supply needs in a timely manner.Documentation, Communication, and Team CollaborationMaintain accurate resident logs, shift notes, incident reports, and other required documentation.Protect the confidentiality of all residents, callers, and agency information.Communicate important resident updates, concerns, and incidents to the Shelter Manager and relevant staff.Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and team communication processes as required.Work collaboratively with culturally diverse staff, volunteers, residents, and community partners.Perform other duties related to shelter support as assigned by the Shelter Manager or agency leadership.QualificationsHigh school diploma or GED required; associate degree in human services or a related field preferred.Relevant experience in domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking, crisis response, residential care, human services, or related work preferred.Equivalent combinations of education, lived experience, training, and relevant work experience may be considered.Valid drivers license and acceptable driving record preferred or required, depending on job duties.CPR and First Aid certification preferred or willingness to obtain within a designated timeframe.Knowledge, Skills, and AbilitiesAbility to respond calmly and appropriately in crisis situations.Understanding of or willingness to learn trauma-informed, survivor-centered, and culturally responsive practices.Ability to maintain professional boundaries and strict confidentiality.Strong verbal and written communication skills.Ability to work independently, exercise sound judgment, and function as part of a team.Ability to complete documentation accurately and on time.Ability to manage multiple priorities in an active shelter environment.Respect for people of diverse backgrounds, identities, and lived experiences.Work Schedule and CompSchedule: This position may include evening, overnight, weekend, holiday, and rotating shift coverage based on shelter needs.Compensation: $12 per hourWork EnvironmentThis role works in a residential shelter setting and may involve responding to urgent, emotional, or high-stress situations.Must be able to perform routine physical tasks such as standing, walking, bending, lifting donated items or supplies, and supporting general shelter upkeep.Training NoteAll crisis response, hotline support, intake assistance, and shelter-related duties will be carried out in accordance with Hannahs Place training requirements, supervision, and agency policies and procedures.
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