Support Specialist - Kensington Campus (Thursday-Monday, 7Am-3:30Pm)

Role: Support SpecialistReports to: Program ManagerProgram: 3001-Lancaster Interim HousingDepartment: Interim HousingLocation: Kensington Campus- 45244 32nd St West, Lancaster, CA 93536Setting: 100% OnsiteSchedule: Thursday- Monday 7am-3:30pmStatus: Full-time/Non-Exempt/Non-ManagementBenefits: 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 dutiesBe visible on the floor at all times and actively engage and welcome clientsConduct regular, thorough walk-throughs of the facilityCreate a supportive environment to ensure client progress towards stabilityAttend relevant staff meetings, trainings and retreats as scheduledOversee client cubicle/bed area maintenance in a trauma-informed mannerFacilitate a client engagement activities, such as groups or other activitiesComplete incident reports, update shift logs, and document in HMIS, as needed and email relevant documents/updates before the end of each shiftDevelop effective, trusting relationships with clients and use a client-centered approach that includes motivational interviewing, harm reduction, and trauma-informed careIntervene during crises to actively de-escalate situations, with client and staff safety in mind, using non-violent communications skillsWork as part of a team to provide comprehensive, integrated care to individuals experiencing homelessness, mental illness, and substance addictionCommunicate effectively, and in a timely manner, with management, peers, and clientsMaintain client confidentiality at all times, while following agency, state, and HIPAA lawsOther duties as assigned

Qualifications:

High School Diploma or GED or EquivalentMinimum one (1) year experience in related workPossess effective customer service skills and the ability to handle difficult situationsAbility to work independently and think criticallyAbility to act in a professional manner regardless of circumstancesCommitment to improving the community through empowerment and dignityFamiliarity with non-violent crisis interventionFamiliarity with issues faced by population servedAbility to self-motivate and to appropriately organize and motivate othersComputer literate; able to use computerized database system for information managementAbility to work as a team memberAble to obtain and maintain Food Handlers, CPR and first aid certificationDemonstrate an ability to take initiative towards continued professional development

Preferred Qualifications:

Ability to communicate in a language other than English

Work Environment:

Ability to lift 10 poundsAbility to work in all types of weather environmentsAbility to work with Persons Experiencing Homelessness (PEH)Combination of field and office environment.Will necessitate working in busy and loud environments.Will be exposed to elements like cold, heat, dust, noise and odor.May need to bend, stoop, twist, and sit throughout the day.