Shelter Associate

Shelter Associate

The Upper Valley Haven employs Shelter Associates across multiple programs and shifts. We are currently looking for a 1st shift Shelter Associate, with a Friday to Monday (4 days) 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM schedule in the Byrne Family Shelter. This is a 32 hour a week position.

Job Summary 

Shelter Associates cultivate positive and supportive relationships with guests while promoting community values. They assist with daily shelter operations and help ensure a welcoming environment based on our standards of respect, well-being, communication, and safety. Associates empower guests to build on their strengths and pursue individual goals. This role requires professionalism, trauma informed engagement of individuals, children, and families, and the ability to provide support that is balanced in both compassion and accountability. 

Duties and Responsibilities 

• Maintain safe, clean, and welcoming shelter spaces 

• Assist with laundry, custodial tasks, room preparations, and daily cleaning lists 

• Welcoming new guests and orienting them to new shelter expectation/polices  

• Conduct rounds during evening and overnight shifts as assigned 

• Complete written shift documentation 

• Communicate collaboratively/positively with other staff who services guest, i.e. Service Coordinator, other Shelter Associates, and Managers 

• Enforce safety rules and regulations to maintain physically and emotionally safe setting for caregivers and children 

• Respond appropriately to crises, conflict, medical needs, and behavioral challenges 

• Participate in team meetings and weekly supervision 

• Communicate important information with staff and supervisors including incident reports and contact emergency services when needed. 

• Assist with special program activities and events  

Compensation and Benefits 

• $22/hour 

• Employer-paid contribution up to 100% of healthcare premiums for medical, dental, vision, life insurance and long-term disability 

• Paid holidays 

• Generous paid time off 

• Matching 403(b) retirement plan 

Skills and Qualifications 

• Strong written and verbal communication  

• Reliability and punctuality 

• Commitment to work non-traditional hours, including weekends and holidays 

• Ability to build rapport with diverse individuals 

• Ability to maintain strong professional boundaries and to remain calm in face of crisis situations 

• Understand the impact being unsheltered, poverty, mental health, and substance misuse 

• Flexibility, adaptability, and teamwork 

• Ability to work calmly in stressful or crisis situations 

• Comfortability in settings with children of all ages, needs, and presentations  

• Ability to bend, lift, walk on varying terrain, and perform active duties throughout shifts 

Required: High School diploma or equivalent. First Aid/CPR/AED certification and a valid driver’s license are required (training available if needed). 

The Upper Valley Haven is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating a diverse workplace environment that is welcoming and safe for all. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, ethnicity, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. We are committed to compliance with all fair employment practices regarding citizenship and immigration status.