Shelter Associate

Job Description

Job Description

Support Safety. Provide Stability. Make a Daily Impact.

Position Overview

Under the supervision of the Emergency Shelter Operations Manager, the Shelter Associate plays a critical frontline role in maintaining a safe, structured, and supportive environment for individuals experiencing homelessness. This position helps deliver essential shelter services, supports day-to-day operations, and ensures safety and dignity for all clients throughout each shift. Every day, you contribute to stability, compassion, and effective emergency response in a fast-paced, mission-driven setting. 

What You’ll Do

You’ll be hands-on in supporting shelter operations, client care, and safety.

Client Support & Engagement

• Welcome clients and assist with shelter intake and daily sign-in procedures
• Support access to essential services including meals, showers, hygiene kits, and clothing
• Encourage participation in shelter programs, outreach services, and case management
• Observe client activity and provide respectful redirection when needed
• Help implement emergency protocols including Code Blue and Code Red Heat responses

  Documentation & Coordination

• Maintain timely and accurate documentation of services provided
• Update daily logs, reports, and shelter communication tools
• Review intake records to ensure completeness and compliance with established procedures

  Safety & Facility Operations

• Conduct regular walkthroughs to ensure a clean, safe, and orderly environment
• Assist with emergency drills and evacuations as needed
• Report facility or equipment issues to appropriate staff promptly

  Additional Responsibilities

• Transport or accompany clients to appointments as requested
• Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and ongoing professional development
• Perform other duties as assigned to support shelter operations

  Create a Clean and Welcoming Space

• Clean and maintain common areas, bathrooms, kitchen spaces, and shared environments
• Disinfect high-touch surfaces and assist with infection prevention efforts
• Collect and dispose of waste and recycling according to safety guidelines
• Perform light maintenance tasks and report larger facility concerns
• Monitor cleaning supply inventory and communicate replenishment needs
• Assist with laundry collection and delivery
• Support efforts to ensure client rooms remain clean, healthy, and compliant with shelter standards

  What We’re Looking For

We’re seeking dependable, compassionate team members who can stay grounded in dynamic environments.

• High school diploma or GED preferred
• Strong active listening, critical thinking, and communication skills
• Ability to remain calm, professional, and solution-focused in challenging situations
• Valid driver’s license required
• Basic computer proficiency, including Excel, HMIS, shelter sign-in systems, and logbooks

  Schedule:

Openings available on 2nd and 3rd shifts:

• 3:00 PM – 11:00 PM
• 11:00 PM – 7:00 AM

  Pay:

• $18.04 per hour
• Additional $1.00 per hour worked paid as a quarterly bonus

Why Work With Us

We invest in our team because we know the work matters—and so do the people doing it.

• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance starting the first month after hire
• 100% Employer-Paid Life Insurance
• 401(k) with 2% employer contribution and up to 4% employer match
• Immediate Paid Time Off, plus additional accrued Sick Time
• 12 Floating Holidays (available after 90 days)

Equal Opportunity Employer

The Rescue Mission of Trenton is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, genetic information, military or veteran status, pregnancy, gender identity or expression, breastfeeding, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.