Emergency Overnight Shelter Staff - (Manchester, NH) FT

About Company:

Waypoint has been supporting and empowering NH citizens since 1850. We have expanded our mission since we began as a child welfare agency, but have remained steadfast in our commitment to helping Granite Staters find paths to brighter futures. Our compassionate, dedicated staff collaborates with the State of New Hampshire and other nonprofits to serve people of all ages.

We value all people and experiences. Here at Waypoint we encourage staff to bring their authentic selves to work. Our fearless approach to challenges is the very foundation upon which we thrive. Challenges are faced without fear, hard work is a given and our team embraces new thinking and ways of doing things. We make decisions that others may shy away from and are driven by courage and conviction when we face obstacles with authenticity and honesty. Our team is spirited and dynamic and motivated to create the best programs and services for all. Just like our community, we evolve, adapt, innovate, and ultimately progress.

About the Role:

The Shelter Staff position is integral to providing a safe, supportive, and welcoming environment for individuals and families experiencing homelessness or crisis. This role involves direct interaction with shelter residents, ensuring their basic needs are met while maintaining the facility's safety and cleanliness. Shelter Staff serve as a critical point of contact, offering guidance, resources, and emotional support to help residents navigate their circumstances and access community services. The position requires a compassionate and patient approach, balancing empathy with the enforcement of shelter policies to create a respectful and orderly environment. Ultimately, Shelter Staff contribute to the overall mission of the shelter by fostering dignity, stability, and hope for those in need. Full Time position Thurs-Mon Midnight to 8 am availability.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Ability to pass background checks and comply with shelter policies.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Basic computer literacy for record-keeping and reporting.
• Availability to work flexible hours, including evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working in social services, homeless shelters, or related community support roles.
• Training in crisis intervention, conflict resolution, or de-escalation techniques.
• First aid and CPR certification.
• Familiarity with local social service agencies and community resources.
• Bilingual abilities, particularly in Spanish or other commonly spoken languages in the community.

Responsibilities:

• Greet and register shelter residents upon arrival, maintaining accurate records and confidentiality.
• Monitor the shelter premises to ensure safety, security, and adherence to established rules and regulations.
• Provide residents with information about available services, resources, and referrals to external agencies.
• Assist with meal distribution, hygiene facilities, and other daily operational tasks to support resident well-being.
• Respond promptly and effectively to emergencies or conflicts, coordinating with appropriate authorities when necessary.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of common areas and sleeping quarters.
• Document incidents, resident interactions, and daily activities in accordance with shelter protocols.
• Collaborate with team members and management to improve shelter operations and resident services.

Skills:

Shelter Staff utilize strong communication skills daily to engage with residents compassionately and clearly convey shelter policies and available resources. Conflict resolution and crisis management skills are essential for maintaining a safe environment and effectively addressing challenging situations. Organizational skills support accurate record-keeping and the smooth operation of shelter activities, ensuring that residents' needs are met efficiently. Empathy and cultural sensitivity enable staff to build trust and rapport with a diverse population, fostering a supportive atmosphere. Additionally, teamwork and adaptability are critical as Shelter Staff collaborate with colleagues and respond to the dynamic needs of the shelter community.