Overnight Shelter Counselor, Yawkey House

Location: 363 Albany Street, Boston, MA (100% on-site role)

Schedule

• 40 hours per week, Sunday–Thursday, 10:45 PM–7:15 AM
• Essential position during weather or other emergencies

Pay

• $21.40–$30.00 per hour (based on relevant experience and skill set)
• Additional $2.00 shift-differential pay for every hour worked between 11:00 PM and 7:00 AM

About the Role

The Guest Services Specialist (GSS) ensures a safe shelter environment for guests and staff by following Pine Street Inn policies and procedures. The role focuses on direct guest care, responding to needs in a timely and professional manner. The GSS assists in developing and implementing housing pathways, motivating guests to pursue housing and connecting them to appropriate resources. They also help guests access substance abuse, mental health, and medical resources when the shelter cannot safely accommodate their needs.

The GSS must remain energized and focused even under ambiguous or strenuous demands, enter data into the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS), and document reports per agency policy. Sound decision-making is required, with appropriate supervisor guidance sought when needed.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct care to guests, prioritizing and addressing their needs professionally
• Assist in developing and implementing housing pathways for guests
• Motivate guests to pursue housing and connect them to relevant resources
• Connect guests to substance abuse, mental health, and medical resources when necessary
• Maintain focus and energy under demanding or ambiguous conditions
• Enter data into the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS)
• Document reports in accordance with agency policy
• Make sound decisions and seek supervisor guidance as needed

Requirements

Education/Training

• Required: High school diploma or GED
• Preferred: Valid MA driver’s license in good standing
• Preferred: Bilingual (English/Spanish)

Knowledge/Experience

• Required: Minimum of one (1) year of experience in the Human Services field
• Preferred: Experience administering Narcan and CPR in a work setting
• Preferred: Knowledge of addiction, recovery, and mental illness
• Preferred: Knowledge of issues pertaining to the homeless population
• Preferred: Knowledge of area resources