Program Assistant

Job Title: Program Assistant FLSA Status: Part Time - non-exempt - Temporary Reports to: Program Manager Schedule: Shifts vary Supervises: n/a Rate of Pay: $21.00 hourly Closing Date: 08/15/2026 This position is temporary in nature and will end on 12/31/2026. Benefits Sick leave benefit – 1 day per month, 12 sick days per year (accrual and availability begins at hire; sick time accrual is pro‑rated for part‑time hours.) Position Summary The Salvation Army Social Services is seeking a program assistant for the Crossroads Men’s Emergency Shelter. The program assistant role is responsible for the safety and security of the households, staff, and volunteers who are temporarily staying at facilities serving individuals or families who do not have permanent housing. Program Assistants treat all those receiving services with dignity and understanding. Program assistants implement the rules of the program fairly and equitably. Any special or unusual concern is to be brought to the immediate attention of the supervisor. Assigned shift may include day/swing/overnight, weekends, holidays. Duties and Responsibilities Customer Service & Guest Support Provide strong customer service to guests, including positive and supportive communication. Build and maintain professional relationships with shelter residents, partners, volunteers, and staff. Provide information and referrals to social service programs or connect guests with appropriate staff. Provide meal service in compliance with SERVSafe regulations during designated times. Program Compliance & Documentation Understand and communicate expectations of bed agreements and program policies. Ensure compliance with policies and maintain accurate record‑keeping. Maintain shift notes, program materials, client files, and data according to contract and organizational standards. Conduct guest unit/bed assignment checks to support adherence to program expectations. Front Desk & Reception Operations Perform general front desk duties, including answering phones and greeting guests. Follow program check‑in procedures and assist guests in alignment with program services. Maintain accurate counts of guests, partners, and visitors on‑site at all times. Safety, Conflict Resolution & Emergency Response Address conflicts and mediate issues to maintain a peaceful and safe environment. Conduct routine safety checks inside and outside the shelter. Respond promptly to emergencies, including medical or safety concerns, following established protocols. Communicate urgent concerns through the appropriate chain of command. Education/Experience High School diploma or G.E.D. required. Experience working with homeless, addictions, mental illness and other vulnerable populations preferred. Skills Conflict Resolution: provide a positive, solution‑focused approach to conflict. Self‑Direction: work independently within clear parameters within a team environment. Problem solving skills: Ability to assess complex and changing situations, identify barriers and develop creative solutions. Qualities Demonstrate history of providing professional services. Demonstrate history of providing customer service in a professional setting. Desire to serve others by building on their strengths. Comfortable working in a crisis‑oriented environment and responding appropriately to a person in crisis. Ability to respond with humility to diversity and the needs of our unhoused neighbors. Ability to work effectively, cooperatively and respectfully with staff, volunteers, guests, partners and community members regardless of race, ethnicity, national origin, partner status, faith, age, socio‑economic status, gender identification, and physical or mental ability. Act with honesty and integrity; exercise appropriate discretion and maintain confidentiality of information. Ability to work schedule as assigned, working as a part of a 24‑hour system, and staying awake at all times during work hours. Supportive of The Salvation Army’s mission. Able to reflect and model the high standards of our organization. Requirements Driving: Position does not require driving. Background Check: Continued employment will be contingent upon a biennial (every two years) background check that is processed in accordance with The Salvation Army’s policies. Physical: Ability to maneuver, remain in a stationary position, grasp, push, pull, and reach overhead, lift 25 pounds, access and produce information from the computer, operate telephone, and understand written information. Qualified individuals must be able to perform the essential duties of the position with or without accommodation. A request to modify or adjust these requirements may be made to your supervisor and HR. The Salvation Army would attempt to satisfy requests if the accommodation needed is reasonable and presents no undue hardship. #J-18808-Ljbffr The Salvation Army Southern California