Job Description
Job Description
Salary : 16.35
Position Summary
The Client Support Specialist (CSS) is a key member of the Shelter Operations and Client Support Team, responsible for providing trauma-informed support and promoting structure and community living within the shelter environment. CSS staff carry a shelter support caseload and offer consistent engagement, structure reminders, and behavioral support to clients as they navigate communal spaces. CSS staff play a vital role in reinforcing shelter expectations, building rapport with clients, documenting support interactions, and identifying patterns that may require additional attention or referral. The CSS works collaboratively with Shelter Operations team members and leadership to maintain an emotionally safe, structured, and welcoming space for all clients.
This is apart-time, hourly, non-exempt position
Reports to : Director of Shelter Operations
Work Schedule & Availability : Must be available to work between the hours of 2 : 00 PM and 10 : 00 PM or 4 : 00 PM and 12 : 00 AM, including weekends. 20 to 25 hours per week.
Key Responsibilities
Client Support & Community Living Engagement
- Carry a caseload of assigned clients and provide consistent, trauma-informed support focused on shelter engagement, community living expectations, and emotional well-being
- Offer regular check-ins, structure reminders, and behavioral guidance related to shared space use, boundaries, and routines
- Support clients in adjusting to the shelter environment through emotional presence, structure reinforcement, and clear communication
- Refer clients to the Advocacy Team for needs related to advocacy services
- Document all support interactions accurately and in a timely manner
- Observe and report emerging client patterns related to communal living, safety, or emotional regulation
- Maintain awareness of assigned clients' shelter experience and provide timely follow-up on behavioral concerns, emotional needs, or program engagement
- Maintains professional boundaries with clients while offering respectful, nonjudgmental support in daily shelter routines
- Collaborate with supervisors to adjust support strategies when ongoing concerns arise
- Respond calmly to moments of emotional distress, using de-escalation techniques when appropriate and promptly notifying leadership of safety concerns
- Process new arrivals during assigned shifts by completing initial documentation, reviewing expectations, and assisting with orientation
- Participate in room preparation and initial walkthroughs to ensure space readiness for each client
- Provide welcoming, trauma-informed introductions to shelter routines and shared living expectations
Documentation & Communication
Document all relevant client interactions, incidents, or shelter concerns using agency-approved systemsReport emerging client patterns, concerns, or follow-up needs to Shelter Operations leadershipRespond to helpline calls in accordance with agency procedures and trauma-informed practicesFollow up on assigned tasks and ensure documentation is completed accurately and on timeDemonstrates reliability by completing assigned tasks within expected timeframes and notifying the supervisor of any delays or barriersShelter Operations Support
Conduct routine shelter walk-throughs to maintain a consistent staff presence, support respectful use of shared spaces, and observe for any safety, emotional, or environmental concerns that may need follow-upAssist with room setup, restocking of staff / client supplies, and assigned cleaning checksAssign and verify completion of client household chores based on shift responsibilities and communal living expectationsMonitor doors and gates during assigned shifts to help ensure safety and secure accessParticipate in client engagement activities such as Fun Nights, shelter celebrations, and shelter decoration projectsRespond to and document helpline calls in accordance with agency proceduresDispense over the counter (OTC) medications and personal care items as requestedTeam Collaboration
Collaborate with Shelter Operations and Client Support team members to ensure consistent support and smooth shelter flowParticipate in team check-ins, shelter walk-throughs, trainings, and shift communicationAssist with shadow training of new team members to support consistent onboarding and modeling of expectationsMaintain regular communication with supervisors to report concerns, receive guidance, and ensure alignment with shelter standardsAdjusts to changes in client needs, shift demands, or shelter flow while maintaining consistency in role expectationsAdditional Responsibilities
Attends required staff meetings, supervision sessions, and trainings to stay informed of program updates and expectationsActively participates in onboarding, ongoing training, and professional development to strengthen trauma-informed practices and shelter operations knowledgeEnthusiastically represents and supports the mission, vision of Safe Harbor in all interactions with clients, teammates, and community partnersCompletes other duties as assigned by the supervisor and / or agency leadershipAssists with any additional responsibilities necessary to support a safe, structured, and supportive shelter environmentQualifications
12 years of experience in shelter, residential, or communal living environments preferredFamiliarity with trauma-informed care and structured support approachesStrong communication, documentation, and follow-through skillsComputer literacy required, including the ability to navigate client databases and use Microsoft Office products (Outlook, Word, Excel, Teams) for documentation and internal communicationHigh school diploma or GED requiredValid drivers license and reliable transportationWork Environment & Physical Requirements
Based in a residential shelter setting with active client engagementRequires walking, standing, climbing stairs and light lifting, with a focus on direct support and shared space upkeepMust maintain emotional composure and professionalism in high-stress or crisis situationsFollows all safety, documentation policies and proceduresExpected to uphold strict confidentiality in all shelter-related documentation, communication, and interactions both onsite and external