What are the responsibilities and job description for the Shelter Staff position at Just Compassion of East Washington County?
Shifts:
7am-3pm
2:30pm-10:30pm
10pm-8am
The Shelter Staff supports the daily operations of the emergency shelter by providing direct assistance to guests experiencing homelessness. This position is responsible for guest intake, orientation, supervision, and meeting basic needs including meals, clothing, hygiene access, and supportive engagement. Shelter Staff work collaboratively with team members, community partners, and service providers to ensure a safe, respectful, and welcoming environment.
Essential Duties
- Ensures safe, respectful, and supportive shelter operations for guests and staff.
- Provides direct guest support services including intake, supervision, and basic needs assistance.
- Maintains facility cleanliness, safety standards, and operational readiness.
Job Functions
- Conducts guest intake, checks in guests, secures and checks belongings, and facilitates timely transitions.
- Provides guest orientation and ensures understanding of shelter expectations and procedures.
- Documents accurate and timely notes in ShiftNote or other communication systems.
- Prepares, serves, and cleans up meals and snacks.
- Distributes linens, clothing, hygiene supplies, and other essential items as needed.
- Facilitates guest showers and sanitizes bathroom facilities between uses.
- Wakes guests at designated times and supports daily routines.
- Supervises guests and responds appropriately to conflicts or behavioral concerns.
- Maintains positive, supportive, and respectful guest interactions.
- Supports the organization’s commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.
- Maintains cleanliness and sanitation throughout the shelter, including bathrooms, kitchen areas, sleeping areas, and common spaces.
- Performs cleaning tasks including mopping, sweeping, sanitizing surfaces, and laundry.
- Inventories and maintains supplies including kitchen, hygiene, and cleaning materials.
- Monitors shelter and grounds to ensure safety and security.
- De-escalates conflicts and contacts shelter leadership or law enforcement when necessary to maintain safety.
- Attends required meetings and participates in ongoing training and skill development.
- Follows all organizational policies, procedures, and safety protocols.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
- Detail-oriented and self-motivated with the ability to work independently.
- Sound judgment and ability to prioritize and make decisions in a fast-paced environment.
- Strong interpersonal skills and ability to maintain professional boundaries.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality.
- CPR/First Aid certification or ability to obtain within 90 days of employment.
Preferred Qualifications
- Prior shelter or human services experience.
- Experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness or housing instability.
- Experience working with diverse, marginalized, or vulnerable populations.
Why Just Compassion: Benefits & Total Rewards
Just Compassion is committed to supporting the health, well-being, and professional growth of our team members. Benefits for eligible employees may include:
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance plans
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP), providing confidential counseling, financial, and legal support at no cost to team members
- Individual Retirement Account (IRA) retirement savings option
- Paid time off (PTO) for eligible employees
- Paid sick time in accordance with Oregon law
- Paid leave benefits in compliance with Oregon Paid Leave Oregon (PLO), Oregon Family Leave Act (OFLA), and the federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), as applicable
- Wellness time to support overall employee well-being
- Eleven (11) paid holidays annually
- Professional development opportunities
Just Compassion of East Washington County is committed to a policy of Equal Employment Opportunity with respect to all employees and applicants for employment. This policy prohibits discrimination on all legally recognized bases including, but not limited to, race, creed, color, gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, marital status, family relationship, disability, national origin, or service in the uniformed services.