What are the responsibilities and job description for the Evening Shelter Staff position at Connections Shelter?
Evening Shelter Staff
Position Type: Part-Time, Hourly
Shifts: Typically 4:00 PM–12:00 AM (some variation may apply)
Schedule: 2–5 shifts per week
About Connections Shelter
Connections Shelter provides emergency overnight shelter and compassionate, person-centered support to individuals experiencing homelessness in our community. We are grounded in the values of radical hospitality, dignity, and respect, and we work in partnership with local agencies to help guests move toward greater stability and self-sufficiency.
Position Summary
Evening Shelter Staff are responsible for helping guests transition into the shelter for the night, ensuring a welcoming, safe, and structured environment. In addition to providing direct support to guests, evening staff oversee volunteer activity and perform security procedures, including bag checks at intake. Working alongside the Shelter Manager and other team members, evening staff embody compassion, professionalism, and consistency.
Key Responsibilities
· Provide reliable and consistent coverage for scheduled evening shifts.
· Greet and check in shelter guests at the beginning of the night.
· Perform security bag checks in accordance with shelter policy to maintain a safe environment.
· Maintain safety and order within the shelter space.
· Supervise and support volunteers assisting with meals, setup, and guest interactions.
· Build rapport with guests while enforcing shelter rules respectfully and consistently.
· Respond to guest questions, needs, and concerns with compassion and professionalism.
· Monitor for potential conflicts or crises and respond appropriately, including contacting the Shelter Manager, on-call staff, or emergency services if needed.
· Complete necessary administrative tasks, including answering phones, documenting incidents, and logging occupancy.
· Offer guests referrals to other services and community resources as appropriate.
· Maintain accurate, written, and verbal communication about incidents and guest interactions.
· Attend occasional team meetings outside of shift hours.
Qualifications & Experience
· A strong commitment to the dignity and value of every person.
· High school diploma or GED required; coursework or a degree in social work, human services, or a related field preferred.
· Experience working or volunteering in a shelter, community service, or human services setting is a plus.
· Comfort with conflict de-escalation, crisis response, and clear boundary setting.
· Dependability, punctuality, and the ability to work independently.
· Ability to engage with volunteers and ensure tasks are completed appropriately.
· Willingness to perform light cleaning and occasional lifting (up to 30 lbs).
· Must maintain confidentiality and professional standards at all times.
Compensation & Support
Pay: Starting at $17/hour (commensurate with experience)
Perks: Paid training, supportive supervision, flexible scheduling, and opportunities for growth
All team members receive training in shelter operations, trauma-informed care, de-escalation, and working with vulnerable populations.
Lived Experience Encouraged
Connections Shelter values lived experience. We encourage applications from individuals who have experienced homelessness, including former guests who are at least two years removed from their stay at the shelter.
Diversity & Inclusion
We are an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds, identities, and lived experiences.
To Apply
Please send a resume and brief statement of interest to jenn@connectionsshelter.org
Job Type: Part-time
Pay: $17.00 per hour
Work Location: In person