Support Services Specialist

Job Description

Job Description

Position Description

The Support Services Specialist is responsible for providing guidance and assistance for clients and volunteers of Harlem United’s Drop-In Program shower services in the Integrated Harm Reduction department. They will oversee the flow of people through the shower area, engage with shower guests, and report on the daily operations to the Program Director, Support Services.

The Support Services Specialist works closely with staff of the department to ensure clients are engaged through the lens of harm reduction and with a trauma-informed approach.

Currently, this position operates out of our Drop-In Center in Harlem, as well as providing shower services at a community partner location in Ridgewood, Queens one day per week. Locations in the future may adjust with program changes.

Essential Job Functions

The following duties are mandatory requirements of the job :

Operations

• Set up shower area and welcome area at the beginning of service and break down at the end of the day.
• Ensure cleanliness of shower area and other areas used by the program prior to program start, throughout the day, and at the close of service delivery.
• Ensure shower stalls are prepared and sanitized before each shower guest.
• Maintain and track inventory of essential service items, such as cleaning products and equipment.

Client Engagement and Reporting

Engagement with Peers and Volunteers

Other Responsibilities

The following duties are to be performed as assigned by the supervisor :

Education and Certification

Special Skills and Knowledge

Excellent interpersonal skills, including clear communication with clients and colleagues

Effectiveness in prioritizing tasks, delegating them where appropriate

Able to provide culturally competent services and demonstrate respect for the community to be served by our program, including people who use drugs, people experiencing unstable housing or homelessness, and LGBTQIA+ individuals

Knowledge of and respect for the harm reduction model and its principals

Bilingual English / Spanish a plus

Must be able to lift up to 40 pounds

Must be able to bend, scrub, mop, etc., for extended periods