Shelter Aide I (Extra Help / Non-Benefited)

Position Summary

The Shelter Aide I is responsible for supporting the day-to-day operations of the shelter by creating a safe, welcoming, and respectful environment for shelter guests, community partners, volunteers, and visitors. This position provides direct support services, assists with shelter operations, and completes administrative and facility-related tasks as assigned by the Program Director or designated supervisor.

The Shelter Aide I plays a critical role in maintaining a trauma-informed, non-judgmental atmosphere that promotes dignity, safety, and stability for all shelter guests. This is an extra-help position and is not eligible for benefits.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Direct Service & Shelter Operations

• Greet all individuals entering the shelter and maintain awareness of all persons on the property at all times
• Create and maintain a welcoming, respectful, calm, and safe environment for shelter guests
• Conduct screenings, intakes, admissions, and re-admissions as directed by supervision
• Ensure shelter rules, procedures, and expectations are followed
• Facilitate bed assignments and maintain accurate bed tracking
• Assist guests in accessing essential needs such as showers, laundry, hygiene supplies, and transportation
• Serve as the primary point of contact for shelter guests regarding orientation and shelter procedures
• Act as a liaison with community partners and volunteers as directed
• Address behavioral concerns and report incidents to supervisory staff
• Maintain a clean and orderly shelter environment; support completion of guest chores
• Conduct bed counts and safety rounds; participate in safety drills as scheduled
• Respond to emergencies, contact 911 when necessary, and complete incident reports and shift logs
• Report maintenance and repair need to supervision
• Communicate effectively with staff using logs, reports, and electronic communications
• Attend required staff meetings and trainings
• Adhere to ethical standards and program policies and procedures
• Perform shift responsibilities as assigned by procedures or supervision

Administrative & General Duties

• Provide general support to shelter staff and program operations
• Answer multiple phone lines professionally
• Maintain and organize shelter forms, records, and documents
• Assist with data entry as needed
• Maintain and organize program supplies and communicate supply needs to supervisors
• Provide transportation as requested by supervision
• Perform other duties within job classification as assigned

Knowledge Of:

• Office equipment and general administrative functions
• Computer applications including Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and internet-based tools
• Social service organizations and service delivery systems
• Trauma-informed care principles
• Housing First and low-barrier service approaches
• Barriers experienced by unhoused individuals and families

Ability To:

• Work effectively in a fast-paced and sometimes stressful environment
• Communicate clearly and professionally, both verbally and in writing
• Exercise sound judgment and maintain confidentiality
• Work collaboratively and contribute to a team-based environment
• Build and maintain positive working relationships with clients, coworkers, and community partners
• Remain organized, reliable, punctual, and detail-oriented

Education and Experience

• High School Diploma or equivalent required
• Experience in social services, human services, or related work/life experience preferred
• Some college coursework or vocational training desirable
• Prior experience working with unhoused or low-income populations strongly preferred

Physical Requirements

• Ability to see, read, and distinguish printed and handwritten documents
• Ability to hear and understand speech in person and by telephone
• Frequent use of hands and arms for computer and office equipment use
• Ability to lift and carry up to 20 pounds
• Ability to bend, stoop, walk, and reach overhead
• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods
• Ability to maintain concentration and mental acuity for sustained periods

This list of essential functions and physical requirements is not exhaustive and may be modified as necessary in accordance with job requirements.

Additional Requirements

• Must successfully complete fingerprinting and background check upon hire (at Alliance expense)
• Must possess reliable transportation, a valid driver’s license, and DMV clearance
• Must provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination upon hire

Organizational Values

Alliance for Community Transformations is guided by the following values:
Confidentiality, Safety, Equality, Respect, Empowerment, Personal & Professional Responsibility, Social Change Through Education & Advocacy, and Sustaining Ourselves & Our Communities.

Alliance for Community Transformations is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer.
All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, age, gender, marital status, sexual orientation, medical condition, or physical disability.