Job Description

AM Schedule (AM 3):

• Mon, Tues, Thurs, & Fri: 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
• Wed: 7:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

PM Schedule (PM 1 - FILLED):

• Wed: 4:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. 
• Thurs & Fri: 7:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. 
• Sat & Sun: 3:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. 

Job Summary:  The Shelter Specialist is responsible for providing supportive services and logistical support to the Emergency Shelter Program during designated shifts. Key duties include assisting with shelter setup, maintaining the cleanliness of the facility, and conducting neighborhood patrols. This role also requires crisis intervention and trauma-informed service delivery.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Shelter Support

Goal: Ensure a safe and client-focused environment for guests to quickly end their homelessness.

• Assist in the implementation of shelter activities to ensure quality, guest-focused, and trauma-informed delivery of services.
• Encourage and discuss progress toward housing with shelter guests.
• Assist with shelter setup and maintenance.
• Assist with general cleanliness and safety of the facility, including emptying trash cans and cleaning up spills.
• Assist with receiving and verifying orders from vendors, completing tally sheets.
• Post and update signs and service calendars.
• Set up and monitor audio equipment.
• Assist in the organization of supplies and facility needs.
• Conduct neighborhood patrols to minimize potential impact on the surrounding community.

Administration

Goal: Oversee administrative duties that support program services.

• Assist with keeping detailed daily summary sheets.
• Assist with record keeping and reporting.

Miscellaneous

• Assist with guest services and program activities if necessary.
• Complete ad hoc projects as appointed by Supervisor.

Requirements:

Experience

• Possess a high level of tolerance and understanding for individuals who present for services with urgent multiple case management and health needs.
• Ensure a client-focused, trauma-informed, and housing-focused shelter approach.
• Ability to perform crisis intervention as needed.

General

• Ability to work effectively with a diverse population; plan, organize, and prioritize duties; perform crisis intervention as needed; clearly communicate information and instructions verbally and in written form; maintain a positive, professional, and safe environment while on duty; and establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.
• Dependability, responsibility, and the ability to communicate effectively and respectfully.
• Fluency in Spanish is of significant value.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Prolonged periods of standing and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment.

Mercy House is an E-Verify employer. E-Verify is an Internet based system operated by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in partnership with the Social Security Administration (SSA) that allows participating employers to electronically verify the employment eligibility of their newly hired employees in the United States. Please click on the following links for more information.

E-Verify Participation Poster:  English & Spanish (

E-Verify Right to Work Poster:  English & Spanish (

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