Shelter Support Specialist: part-time

About the role

We are seeking a compassionate and reliable part-time Shelter Support Specialist to join our SERVE Homeless Shelter team. You will provide 24-hour awake coverage and supervision, ensuring a safe, supportive, and welcoming environment for families experiencing homelessness.

Responsibilities

• Ensure the safety and security of guests, volunteers, visitors, and staff by conducting regular internal and external perimeter checks and communicating shelter expectations
• Conduct shelter orientations for guests within 24 hours of entry to review policies, expectations, and available resources
• Work in partnership with Housing Counselors to support guest intake, eligibility screening, and program enrollment
• Absorb guests with housing searches and support progress toward rapid rehousing goals
• Help guests apply for essential services and documentation such as ID cards, Social Security cards, and birth certificates
• Conduct room and personal property inspections during shifts
• Respond to emergencies by following agency and shelter protocols, including evacuations when necessary
• Document and report incidents according to agency guidelines
• Work collaboratively with volunteers, contractors, and donors
• Promote respectful and positive interactions among shelter guests
• Support cleanliness and upkeep of the shelter and grounds, including basic cleaning tasks when needed
• Participate in regular supervision with the Program Supervisor and provide updates on guest needs and shelter operations
• Maintain guest files and ensure accurate data entry according to program requirements and NVFS guidelines
• Maintain familiarity with shelter systems, procedures, and program software

Requirements

• Relevant experience or a degree in the human services field preferred, with some knowledge of working with and supporting individuals in crisis
• Prefer some work experience in any of the following areas: customer service, Direct Support Professional (DSP) with the elderly or developmentally disabled, hospitality services such as hotel/front desk duties, residential services, daycare, childcare, or teaching, security or safety
• Oral and written fluency in English; bilingual skills in client languages such as Spanish, Creole, and Farsi a plus
• CPR/1st Aide certification preferred; if not certified, must be willing and able to obtain certification through NVFS-provided training
• Demonstrated ability to stay calm in stressful situations and maintain professional boundaries while supporting shelter guests

Qualifications

• Attendance reliability

Skills

• Ability to interact and communicate respectfully and effectively with shelter guests, visitors, and staff

Benefits and Compensation

We offer a comprehensive benefit package to support various dimensions of your wellbeing. The pay for this role is $20.21/hour and is an on-site role. NVFS is an equal opportunity employer, E-Verify participant and drug-free workplace.