Direct Care Specialist

Direct Care SpecialistThe Direct Care Specialist serves as a frontline team member responsible for helping create a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment for clients at The Kearney Center. This role provides direct support to clients by assisting with daily needs, answering questions, connecting clients to services, maintaining shelter operations, and promoting a culture of dignity, accountability, and respect.Direct Care Specialists play a critical role in helping clients navigate shelter services while utilizing trauma-informed care, emotional regulation, and de-escalation techniques to support positive client experiences. This position serves as a key point of contact for clients and helps ensure daily shelter operations remain safe, organized, and responsive.Essential ResponsibilitiesClient Support & EngagementServe as a primary point of contact for clients throughout assigned shifts.Assist clients with questions, requests, appointments, and daily shelter navigation.Build professional and respectful relationships with clients while maintaining appropriate boundaries.Help connect clients with available services, resources, and staff support.Provide compassionate, client-centered service in all interactions.Shelter Operations & SafetyHelp maintain a safe, clean, structured, and welcoming shelter environment.Monitor shelter activities and respond appropriately to operational or behavioral concerns.Conduct routine facility walkthroughs to maintain awareness of client needs and shelter operations.Assist with meal service, laundry services, and other daily operational activities.Support shelter policies and procedures while promoting a positive environment for clients and staff.Trauma-Informed Care & De-EscalationUtilize trauma-informed care practices in all client interactions.Remain calm and professional during stressful or high-conflict situations.Use de-escalation techniques to support positive outcomes and reduce tension.Demonstrate patience, empathy, sound judgment, and emotional regulation.Documentation & CommunicationComplete timely and accurate documentation of incidents, client interactions, and services provided.Maintain accurate records within HMIS and other required systems.Ensure clear communication between shifts and team members regarding client needs, incidents, and operational updates.Protect client confidentiality and organizational information at all times.Teamwork & ProfessionalismWork collaboratively with coworkers, supervisors, volunteers, and community partners.Participate in team meetings, trainings, and organizational initiatives.Maintain reliable attendance, punctuality, and professionalism.Support the mission, values, and culture of The Kearney Center in all aspects of the role.Perform other duties as assigned.Preferred QualificationsExperience working in human services, shelters, behavioral health, customer service, or related fields preferred.Ability to remain calm and professional in fast-paced environments.Strong communication, relationship-building, and conflict-resolution skills.Commitment to serving individuals experiencing homelessness with dignity and respect.Ability to work evenings, weekends, holidays, and overnight shifts as needed.RequirementsEducation and Experience: At least 1 year experience with crises intervention, medical assistance, teacher assistants, and/or homelessness services preferredHigh school diploma or equivalentSkills and Qualifications: Strong verbal and interpersonal communication skillsExcellent customer service skills and maintenance of confidentialityStrong professionalism and mission driven attitudeAbility to uphold safety regulationsCompassionate and open-mindedCommitment to practicing the values of dignity and respect with clients, coworkers, and community partnersAbility to remain focused and calm in dynamic, fast-paced environmentAbility to work independently and utilize initiativeCooperative and flexible with people and systemsMust uphold the Kearney Center's ethics and code of conduct at all timesDemonstrated proficiency with computers and standard office equipment: Windows, MS Office, and emailWork Environment: Frequent standing and walking through indoor environment. Ability to utilize general office equipment. This position requires the working ability to carry 50lbs. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.Compensation: $15.00 - $16.50 hourlyPay rate is based on skills and experience.Position will remain open until filled.CESC, Inc. is an EOE.