SUPPORT SPECIALIST

ABOUT US

The Open Door Shelter Inc. (Open Doors) is a nonprofit organization operating in Norwalk, CT on a 24/7 basis. Our mission is to effectively address the causes and complexities of the homeless and working poor by providing shelter, food, clothing, case management services, treatment services, transitional planning for short and long term goals, subsidized housing, education, employment, and a path towards independence and success.

TITLE:

SUPPORT SPECIALIST REPORTS TO

LEAD

SUPPORT SUPERVISOR LOCATION

Open Doors, Norwalk, CT 06854

POSITION SUMMARY:

Under the supervision of the Lead Support Specialist, Support Specialist is responsible for supporting the activities of the shelter guests and aids in ensuring safe and respectful environment in a 24/7 structure. Helps maintain shelter cleanliness and sanitation. This is a part-time wake position of up to 21 hours per week .

Shifts will be as follows:

Wed-Fri 3:00pm - 10:30pm

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Maintains a safe and respectful environment for all shelter guests and staff by conducting regular safety checks of dorms, living areas and common room. Supports the safe flow of guests and community non-residents participating in the meals and throughout the shelter. Monitors front desk area, maintaining guest safety by assisting security with screenings. Leads shelter guests through smooth transition of shelter activities including but not limited to 'The Social' events and activities, smoke breaks, housekeeping, night time activities, etc. Facilitate 'The Social' program activities including but not limited to educational lessons, group games and activities, group outings, helping clients find resources, etc. Provide set up and breakdown assistance and encourage the clients to participate. Works with the security team to ensure that guests are checked in (intake) and awake by shelter's designated time and that guests are in compliance with storage and locker regulations. Ensures guests are out of dorms by appointed time. Assesses the health and wellness of guests and provides assistance for medical services/emergencies as required. Provides an accurate and updated head count of all guests in house during the shift to Lead Support Supervisor. Ensures that safety practices are applied throughout the shelter and responds to alarms/emergencies as required. Maintains cleanliness of shelter office and designated staff restroom facilities and launders shelter linens. Facilitates and maintains the cleanliness of the shelter dorm areas, bathrooms and common areas by coordinating chores by guests and observing/inspecting results and completing any chores that haven't been done. Completes all necessary documentation and data entry in a timely manner. Encourages and motivates shelter guests to work towards housing goals. Stay up to date on any required trainings. Answers phone calls and routes calls appropriately. Reports any maintenance issues. Performs other duties as required.

QUALIFICATIONS

Compassion for others and the ability to empathize with the condition of others is essential Associates Degree in Human Services or related field, or its equivalent preferred Safety Management Training; Mental Health and First Aid Training (CPR certification preferred); Naloxone training The ability to respond to stressful situations and de-escalate Experience in related field including working with individuals with mental health and addiction issues Ability to communicate effectively with guests and co-workers Bilingual in Spanish or Creole preferred Attentiveness to detail while multi-tasking numerous activities is required Basic computer skills (email, Microsoft Word, etc.) Ability to operate equipment including copy machines, washer/dryer, etc. Ability to lift moderate weights, push/ pull objects (trash, laundry bins, etc.) This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. The job's incumbent(s) are responsible for performing other business-related duties as assigned by management. Open Doors is an equal opportunity employer. Employment decisions will be made without regard to an applicant's or employee's race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, age, mental or physical disability, genetic predisposition, citizenship, marital status or status as victim of domestic violence, military status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Job Type:

Part-time Pay:

From $20.00 per hour

Benefits:

401(k) matching Dental insurance Employee assistance program Life insurance Paid time off Professional development assistance Tuition reimbursement Vision insurance

Language:

Spanish (Preferred)

Work Location:

In person