Adult Emergency Shelter Support

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.

• 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.
• We currently have full time, part time, and per diem opportunities available.

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 including regular cleaning and maintenance.
• 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.
• 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.
• Assist guests with meeting their needs through access to hygiene products, food, medical support services and other community support services.
• Support and facilitate social engagement and skill building opportunities.
• Conduct intake questionnaires with new guests to identify needs.
• Support and lead lunch service as needed.

Position Qualifications:

• Minimum of HS degree or equivalent required; BSW or BA in Social Work or a related field is a plus.
• 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 providing Emergency Shelter, services, and long-term housing for Vermonters who are experiencing homelessness or are marginally housed.

Full-time positions qualify for benefits through COTS, part time positions may qualify for limited benefits.

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.