What are the responsibilities and job description for the Community Shelter Coordinator position at Opportunities for Housing, Resources, and Assistance, Inc. (OHRA).?
Job Overview
We are seeking a dynamic and compassionate Community Shelter Coordinator to play a critical role in the City of Ashland’s response to addressing the needs of the unhoused community. This challenging but rewarding position will work closely with the Direct Services Manager to manage and support the Night Lawn and related shelter locations.
The Night Lawn is a place where individuals can sleep in compliance with city ordinances. This position is responsible for the safe and effective operations of the Night Lawn and will be the point of contact for all related issues that arise. Some evening and weekend time will be required to respond to emergencies.
Night Lawn Coordination responsibilities include, but are not limited to supervising staff and volunteers, onboarding campers, enforcing rules, managing storage, restocking supplies, and keeping the camping spaces clean and orderly.
Other responsibilities include coordinating with services providers, communicating with city staff, preparing reports, and collaborating with outside agencies.
The ideal candidate will have a passion for community service, solving complex problems, and be comfortable working with populations who are either unhoused or struggling with trauma related to being unhoused.
Skill / Knowledge / Abilities
- Knowledge of local and regional programs and services to the unhoused.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills.
- Strong de-escalation skills.
- Demonstrate good decision-making skills.
- Professional communicator who is organized and can work both independently and collaboratively.
- Ability to learn quickly, adapt to changing situations, and be flexible in their schedule.
- Demonstrate the ability to receive constructive feedback as part of the performance management culture at OHRA
Requirements
- Strong relationship management skills to foster trust among guests, staff, and community partners
- Previous administrative experience with proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook)
- Demonstrated supervisory experience in social services or program management roles
- Knowledge of behavioral health principles and social work practices relevant to underserved populations
- Bilingual abilities highly preferred to serve diverse community members effectively
- Leadership experience in social services administration with a focus on program development and team management
- Ability to manage budgets accurately while maintaining compliance with funding requirements
- Excellent written communication skills for report writing and client documentation
- Experience working with individuals from underserved communities or those experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity
Work Environment
- Frequently lifts and carries objects weighing up to 50 pounds when moving supplies.
- Includes frequent interactions with unhoused individuals who may be struggling with mental health and substance use challenges.
- Typically stands for long periods, bends, stoops, and crouches.
- Regularly moves about the facility to coordinate work.
- Significant time working outdoors at the Night Lawn.
- Seasonal exposure to the outdoor elements including extreme heat, cold and smoke.
Training
Any combination of trauma informed care, mental health first aid, and de-escalation. Training will be available for eligible candidates.
Education & Experience
Associate’s Degree and two or more years’ of experience working in a social services environment that includes individuals experiencing substance use and severe mental health challenges. At least 1 year of experience in any supervisory role. Education may be substituted for 4 or more years coordinating programs and direct services to the unhoused community.
Physical Requirements
Sitting 33%, walking 33 %, standing 33%. Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
Pay: From $25.00 per hour
Expected hours: 40.0 per week
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
License/Certification:
- Driver's License (Preferred)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $25