Per Diem Shelter Support: Adult Shelters

Date Posted/Updated: 03/04/2024
No. of Positions Open: Ongoing/Always Open- Day, Evening & Overnight shifts

Position Type: Per diem (as needed), no hours guaranteed, non-benefits eligible

We are currently looking for individuals interested in working with our Individual Adult Shelters, the Daystation drop-in center and the Waystation overnight shelter. Our emergency shelter programs provide opportunities for individuals without housing to have a safe, secure place to stay and have their basic needs met, such as showers, laundry facilities, computer access for job searches, applications, etc., and lunch service. Both shelters are open 365 days a year.

Our per diem/substitute shelter support roles offer the opportunity to provide meaningful support to your community with a flexible, low-commitment work schedule. Substitute Shelter Support team members provide support for coverage gaps in our emergency shelters, which require staffing 24/7. You would be contacted when there is a need for coverage, whether pre-planned or to support last-minute needs, such as unplanned illnesses, etc.

The Waystation overnight shelter is open from 6:00pm – 8:00am each night.

The Daystation drop-in center is open from 9:00am – 5:00pm each day.

The primary responsibility of Shelter Support team members is to ensure the safety and well-being of COTS guests. This includes, but is not limited to:

• Building trusting relationships with guests and ensure COTS is a welcoming, safe environment for all guests.
• Maintain the day-to-day upkeep of the shelters.
• Support guests with meeting the expectations and requirements of shelter programs. This includes enforcing shelter policies such as check-ins times, quiet hours, and respectful behavior.
• Support and facilitate social engagement and skill-building opportunities; support and lead lunch service as needed.
  
• Assist guests with meeting their needs through access to hygiene products, food, medical support services and other community support services.
• Proactively identify potential conflict and support COTS team members in de-escalating situations as needed.
• Maintain an up-to-date knowledge of community resources and agencies to ensure guests have access to robust support such as referrals to substance use recovery agencies, food banks, financial support agencies, and more.

Flexibility to work, when given short notice, is required for substitute team members.  

Position Requirements:

• Minimum of HS degree or equivalent required.
• At least one year of related experience required; a combination of coursework and experience will also be considered.
• Demonstrated conflict management and de-escalation skills required.
• Ability to work with individuals with mental health, medical, substance abuse, and employment issues required.
• Experience with individuals experiencing homelessness and crisis intervention is a plus.
• Knowledge of local resources and services for individuals and families is a plus.

All positions at COTS require a commitment to our mission: Advocating for long-term solutions to end homelessness and provide emergency shelter, services, and long-term housing for individuals and families who are experiencing homelessness or are marginally housed.

Per diem positions are scheduled as needed and do not have a guaranteed schedule or hours commitment. Therefore, these positions do not qualify for benefits through COTS. Per diem shelter support roles are paid $19.00/hour.  Substitute Shelter Support coverage is needed for all shifts, so there is flexibility to accommodate scheduling preferences.

To apply, submit your resume and cover letter to jobs@cotsonline.org.

We are a team of passionate individuals who believe in the value and dignity of every human life. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer; we do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. We embrace diversity and encourage all to apply.