What are the responsibilities and job description for the Men's Shelter - Front Desk Staff position at TOPEKA RESCUE MISSION?
Join Our Mission – Be the First Light of Hope at Topeka Rescue Mission!
Position: Main Shelter Operator- Front Desk Staff
Are you passionate about helping others, creating a safe and welcoming environment, and being the calm in the storm? At Topeka Rescue Mission (TRM), we’re not just offering a job — we’re inviting you into a mission of hope, love, and transformation. As the Front Desk Staff, you'll be the heartbeat of our shelter — the first friendly face and the reassuring voice that sets the tone for every guest, volunteer, and visitor who walks through our doors.
What You’ll Do:
As a Front Desk Staff, you’ll wear many hats, each one as meaningful as the next. Your role will be vital in keeping our operations running smoothly, maintaining a secure and peaceful environment, and ensuring each guest experiences dignity, compassion, and the love of Jesus Christ.
Key Responsibilities:
- Be the welcoming presence at the front desk — in-person and by phone
- Professionally manage communications through phone systems and two-way radios
- Provide assistance with daily guest needs (personal care items, bus passes, etc.)
- De-escalate conflicts with grace and compassion, ensuring safety and calm
- Conduct regular security rounds across TRM’s facilities
- Monitor security cameras and manage chapel, meal, and meeting times
- Keep guest records up to date and assist with registration
- Help with laundry and linen distribution as needed
- Administer drug/alcohol tests when required and log results accordingly
- Respond calmly and appropriately during emergencies (fire, medical, weather, etc.)
- Collaborate with law enforcement and emergency services when needed
- Support the Hope Center and other TRM departments as a team player
What You Bring:
- High School diploma or GED (required)
- Experience in security, guest services, or de-escalation (a big plus)
- Strong communication and people skills — with the ability to stay cool under pressure
- A servant's heart full of grace, patience, and compassion
- Tech-savvy with solid data entry and computer knowledge
- A deep respect for confidentiality and integrity
- Physically able to walk/stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 lbs
Bonus Points:
- Crisis Intervention Training (CIT), de-escalation, or mental health training (preferred, but we’ll train the right person!)
- Previous experience working with vulnerable or at-risk populations
Why Join TRM? Because here, every shift is a chance to make a difference. You’ll be part of a team dedicated to restoring lives, building community, and sharing the love of Christ through action. Whether it’s offering a warm blanket, a kind word, or simply listening — your presence will matter.
Ready to be the difference?
Apply now and become part of something greater than a job — become part of a mission. For a full job description visit, trmonline.org/jobs.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: From $12.50 per hour
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Application Question(s):
- Why do you want to work at Topeka Rescue Mission?
- TRM is a Christ-centered organization and there is an expectation of sharing the love of Jesus Christ with staff, guests, and volunteers. Please share with us your understanding of this expectation and your willingness to meet this expectation.
Work Location: In person
Salary : $13