Support Specialist - Kensington Campus (Monday - Friday, 7am - 3:30pm)

Role: Support Specialist - Kensington Campus (Monday - Friday, 7am - 3:30pm)

Reports to: Program Manager

Program: 3001 - Lancaster Interim Housing

Department: Interim Housing

Location: Kensington Campus - 45244 32nd St West, Lancaster, CA 93536

Setting: 100% Onsite

Schedule: Monday - Friday, 7am - 3:30pm

Status: Full-time/Non-Exempt/Non-Management 

Benefits: Medical, Vision, Dental, Life Insurance, 403(b) Retirement plan, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), etc.

Openings: 1

SUMMARY:

A support specialist will act as the first point-of-contact for all immediate client needs and requests such as phone use, linens, water, laundry schedule, etc. They will respond to clients’ needs (in a trauma informed care scope) and assist with other tasks given to support the shelter and other staff members. A support specialist’s role is vital to the success and support of the client’s and the shelter itself.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: 

• Act as the first point-of-contact for all immediate client needs and requests such as phone use, linens, water, etc.
• Monitor and oversee the floor including communal areas, patios, bathrooms, dorms and showers, ensuring program guidelines are upheld and that the physical site is well-maintained and safe, including general cleaning duties
• Be visible on the floor at all times and actively engage and welcome clients
• Conduct regular, thorough walk-throughs of the facility
• Create a supportive environment to ensure client progress towards stability
• Attend relevant staff meetings, trainings and retreats as scheduled
• Oversee client cubicle/bed area maintenance in a trauma-informed manner
• Facilitate a client engagement activities, such as groups or other activities
• Complete incident reports, update shift logs, and document in HMIS, as needed and email relevant documents/updates before the end of each shift
• Develop effective, trusting relationships with clients and use a client-centered approach that includes motivational interviewing, harm reduction, and trauma-informed care
• Intervene during crises to actively de-escalate situations, with client and staff safety in mind, using non-violent communications skills
• Work as part of a team to provide comprehensive, integrated care to individuals experiencing homelessness, mental illness, and substance addiction
• Communicate effectively, and in a timely manner, with management, peers, and clients
• Maintain client confidentiality at all times, while following agency, state, and HIPAA laws
• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or GED or Equivalent
• Minimum one (1) year experience in related work
• Possess effective customer service skills and the ability to handle difficult situations
• Ability to work independently and think critically
• Ability to act in a professional manner regardless of circumstances
• Commitment to improving the community through empowerment and dignity
• Familiarity with non-violent crisis intervention
• Familiarity with issues faced by population served
• Ability to self-motivate and to appropriately organize and motivate others
• Computer literate; able to use computerized database system for information management
• Ability to work as a team member
• Able to obtain and maintain Food Handlers, CPR and first aid certification
• Demonstrate an ability to take initiative towards continued professional development

Preferred Qualifications:

• Ability to communicate in a language other than English strongly preferred but not required

Work Environment: