Senior Shelter Advocate & Training Coordinator

Position Summary

The Senior Shelter Advocate & Training Coordinator is responsible for providing advanced trauma-informed advocacy, crisis intervention, and case management services to adults and juveniles impacted by domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse, Human Trafficking and other violent crimes. In addition to direct client support, this role provides guidance within the shelter, supports staff and volunteers, and oversees training and onboarding for new team members. This position will also act as a backup for the pet advocate ensuring that the pet advocacy person(s) are completing tasks, meeting with clients for pet intakes and acting as a backup for position if pet advocate is not available. The position ensures client safety, documentation accuracy, and compliance with agency policies, grant requirements, and legal standards while fostering a secure, supportive, and empowering environment for all shelter residents.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Human Services, Psychology, Criminal Justice, or related field preferred; equivalent experience considered.


• Experience working in domestic violence services, victim advocacy, crisis response, or shelter work strongly preferred.


• Demonstrated knowledge of trauma-informed care, crisis intervention, and safety planning.


• Experience providing leadership, mentorship, or training to staff or volunteers preferred.


• Ability to remain calm and make sound decisions under pressure.


• Excellent communication, documentation, and organizational skills.


• Ability to learn quickly, retain new information, and follow established protocols.


• Must pass background checks and complete required trainings.


• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries.


• Work Environment & Physical Requirements


• Ability to work scheduled shifts including weekends and some holidays.


• Ability to climb stairs, lift up to 25 lbs., and move throughout the facility.


• Work may involve exposure to emotionally intense or crises; resilience and strong self-care practices are essential.

Major Responsibilities

• Provide crisis intervention, advocacy, and support via the crisis line and in person.


• Serve as a senior-level advocate, offering guidance, mentorship, and support to shelter staff and volunteers.


• Oversee training coordination, including onboarding, documentation, skill development, and ongoing professional training for shelter personnel.


• Complete client assessments, intakes, and safety plans, ensuring trauma-informed, client-centered service delivery.


• Maintain high standards of documentation accuracy, including participation in routine file audits.


• Assist in maintaining shelter operations, safety, and security while promoting a supportive and respectful living environment for residents.

Key Responsibilities

• Senior Shelter Advocacy


• Provide advanced crisis intervention and emotional support to shelter residents.


• Offer guidance, leadership, and consultation to other advocates and volunteers.


• Conduct empowerment planning and assist residents in setting short- and long-term goals.


• Facilitate conflict resolution among residents when needed.


• Model trauma-informed communication and professional boundaries for shelter staff.


• Training Coordination


• Coordinate onboarding and ongoing training for new shelter advocates, volunteers, and interns.


• Maintain training schedules, records, and compliance with required certifications.


• Develop or update training materials, manuals, and orientation resources.


• Provide refresher training on crisis intervention, documentation standards, confidentiality, trauma-informed care, and shelter protocols.


• Identify staff learning needs and collaborate with leadership to implement professional development opportunities.


• Meet at least monthly with shelter director for check-ins and professional development.

Case Management & Advocacy

• Assist residents in accessing community resources such as legal aid, counseling, medical care, employment support, transportation, housing, and victim compensation.


• Advocate on behalf of residents with partner agencies, law enforcement, and service providers.


• Maintain updated case notes, progress documentation, referrals, and incident reports in accordance with agency guidelines.


• Shelter Operations & Resident Support


• Conduct shelter intakes, screenings, orientation, and safety assessments.


• Lead house meetings and support a respectful, structured community environment.


• Enforce shelter rules, policies, and confidentiality standards.


• Support daily shelter operations including chores, inventory, and facility organization.


• Assist with or facilitate group activities, educational programs, and community-building opportunities.


• Team Collaboration


• Provide regular updates to the Shelter Manager regarding client concerns, incidents, and operational issues.


• Attend agency staff meetings, in-service trainings, and professional development opportunities.


• Contribute to a positive, collaborative team culture and represent the agency professionally at all times.


• This position will also act as a backup for the pet advocate ensuring that the pet advocacy person(s) are completing tasks, meeting with clients for pet intakes and acting as a backup for position if pet advocate is not available.

Hours

• Full time


• Wednesday-Sunday 9:00am to 5:00pm