Program Assistant - P/T Weekends (Overnight) 7:00 PM - 7 AM

Program Assistant

Catholic Charities of Baltimore is seeking a Program Assistant for the Weinberg Housing & Resource Center (WHRC), a low-barrier emergency shelter serving more than 275 adult men and women each night in Baltimore City.

WHRC provides shelter, meals, showers, laundry, case management, convalescent care, and other supportive services designed to help individuals move toward stability, self-sufficiency, and permanent housing.

The Program Assistant is a direct-service position supporting adults experiencing homelessness in a busy emergency shelter environment. This is not an administrative or desk-based role.

Program Assistants help maintain a safe, respectful, and supportive environment while responding to resident needs, monitoring activity throughout the facility, documenting incidents and services, de-escalating difficult situations, and assisting with day-to-day resident needs.

The work can be fast-paced and unpredictable. Residents may be experiencing stress, frustration, conflict, behavioral health challenges, trauma, or crisis. Successful Program Assistants are patient, dependable, compassionate, and able to remain calm while using sound judgment and maintaining professional boundaries.

What to Expect During Your Shift

• Working directly with adults experiencing homelessness in a low-barrier shelter environment.
• Handling multiple priorities and changing needs throughout a shift.
• Interacting with residents who may be upset, frustrated, or experiencing a crisis.
• Using de-escalation techniques and professional judgment when conflict occurs.
• Walking and standing for much of the shift while frequently moving throughout the facility.
• Assisting with practical, hands-on resident needs in addition to safety monitoring and documentation.
• Working as part of a collaborative team where attendance, punctuality, and reliability are essential.
• Working weekends and holidays as part of a regular schedule.

Qualifications

• One year of related experience preferred, particularly experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness or other at-risk populations.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to build positive relationships with people from diverse backgrounds and experiences.
• Ability to remain courteous, patient, calm, and professional in challenging situations.
• Ability to intervene in and de-escalate conflict respectfully and effectively.
• Dependable attendance and punctuality.
• Ability to use, or willingness to learn, basic computer systems, email, online training platforms, and required software.
• Knowledge of basic personal care, housekeeping, and related support practices is helpful.

Physical Requirements & Work Environment

• No remote or hybrid work availability based on core and essential functions of the position.
• Adjusting or moving objects up to 50 pounds in all directions, which may include lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, or repositioning items as necessary to perform job duties.
• Ascending or descending ladders, stairs, ramps, poles, or other similar structures as required to perform job tasks.
• Engaging in communication with others to exchange information, which may involve speaking, listening, writing, or using electronic communication methods to ensure clear and effective understanding. This includes both verbal and non-verbal interactions with colleagues, clients, or external parties.
• Remaining in a stationary position, which may involve standing or sitting for extended periods, as required to complete tasks or duties associated with the role.
• Moving self in different positions to accomplish tasks in various environments including tight and confined spaces.
• Hearing and vision abilities, with or without correction, sufficient to drive safely and effectively observe and communicate with others.
• May involve working in various outdoor weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, snow, and high winds. Employees may be exposed to these elements for extended periods. Protective gear such as waterproof clothing, warm layers, or wind-resistant apparel will be necessary to ensure comfort and safety while performing job duties in inclement weather.

Certifications

• CPR and/or First Aid certification must be obtained within six months of employment and maintained thereafter.
• ServSafe certification must be obtained within six months of employment and maintained thereafter.

Why This Work Matters

At WHRC, Program Assistants play an important role in helping individuals experience safety, dignity, consistency, and compassionate support during a difficult period in their lives. This position is ideal for someone who values service, is comfortable in a demanding direct-care environment, and wants to be part of a team helping people move toward greater stability and independence.

Our Values

Catholic Charities is committed to serving every person with:

• Dignity
• Compassion
• Humility
• Collaboration
• Excellence
• Integrity

We strive to create a trauma-informed workplace culture that promotes safety, empowerment, healing, and self-care while recognizing the infinite worth and promise of every individual.

Benefits

• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Vacation, Sick, and Holiday Pay
• 403(b) Retirement Plan with discretionary employer contribution
• Tuition Advancement Assistance
• Paid Parental Leave

Join Catholic Charities of Baltimore and become part of an organization dedicated to creating opportunities for hope, stability, and transformation in our community.

Catholic Charities is an Equal Opportunity Employer.