Program Assistant

Job Title: Program Assistant FLSA Status: Full-Time: NE Reports to: Program Manager Schedule: Overnight Shift 11:30 pm – 8 am Rate of Pay: $21.00 hourly Benefits Health, vision, dental, life, voluntary life and disability insurance Sick leave benefit – 1 day per month, 12 sick days per year (accrual and availability begins at hire) Vacation benefit – 10 vacation days per year, accrued at the rate of .0385 hours for each hour worked, excluding overtime (accrual begins at hire but may not be used until the completion of six months of employment) One floating day off for use, accrued immediately and again annually, but may not be used until the completion of the initial three-month introductory period of employment Pension Plan (after one year of continuous service) Voluntary Tax-Deferred Annuity Plan (403(b) plan) Position Summary The Salvation Army Social Services is seeking a Program Assistant for the Crossroads Men’s Emergency Shelter. The Program Assistant is responsible for the safety and security of households, staff, and volunteers who are temporarily staying at facilities that serve individuals or families without permanent housing. They treat all those receiving services with dignity and understanding, implement the rules of the program fairly and equitably, and bring any special or unusual concern to the immediate attention of the supervisor. The shift may include day, swing, or overnight, weekends, and holidays. Customer Service & Guest Support Provide strong customer service to guests through 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: positive, solution-focused approach to conflict. Self-Direction: work independently within clear parameters in a team environment. Problem-solving skills: assess complex and changing situations, identify barriers and develop creative solutions. Qualities Demonstrated history of providing professional services. Demonstrated 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. Respond with humility to diversity and the needs of unhoused neighbors. Work effectively, cooperatively and respectfully with staff, volunteers, guests, partners and community members regardless of race, ethnicity, national origin, partner status, faith, age, socioeconomic status, gender identification, and ability. Act with honesty and integrity; exercise appropriate discretion and maintain confidentiality of information. Work schedule as assigned, as part of a 24‑hour system, and stay awake at all times during work hours. Support The Salvation Army’s mission. Reflect and model the high standards of the organization. Requirements Driving If The Position Requires Driving The employee must be at least 21 years old (for insurance provision) and possess a valid in‑state driver’s license. An MVR will be processed every year in accordance with The Salvation Army’s policies. Background check. Continued employment will be contingent upon a biennial background check processed in accordance with The Salvation Army’s policies. Physical: Ability to maneuver, remain in a stationary position, grasp, push, pull, reach overhead, lift 25 pounds, access and produce information from the computer, operate telephone, understand written information. Qualified individuals must be able to perform the essential duties of the position with or without accommodation. Requests to modify or adjust these requirements may be made to your supervisor and HR; the Salvation Army will attempt to satisfy reasonable requests without undue hardship. #J-18808-Ljbffr The Salvation Army Southern California