Support Specialist

The Open Door Shelter Inc. (Open Doors) is a nonprofit organization operating in Norwalk, CT. Our mission is to make a direct impact in the Greater Norwalk area by guiding every person in the cycle of homelessness towards housing stability. We accomplish this by engaging every person at risk of, and experiencing, homelessness with a holistic set of tools and resources that can be tailored to their individual needs.

TITLE:SUPPORT SPECIALIST

REPORTS TO:SUPPORT SUPERVISOR

LOCATION: The Open Door Shelter Inc., Norwalk, CT 06854

POSITION SUMMARY: Under the supervision of the Support Supervisor, Support Specialist is responsible for supporting the activities of the shelter guests and aids in ensuring safe and respectful environment in a 24/7 structure utilizing the Housing-First approach. Helps maintain shelter cleanliness and sanitation. This is a part-time wake position of up to 24 hours per week. Shifts will occur in the evening, night, and weekend time.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Provides a safe environment by supporting guests and by conducting regular safety checks of dorm and living areas.
• Encourages and motivates shelter guests to work towards housing goals.
• Supports the safe flow of guests and community non-residents participating in the meals and throughout the shelter.
• Monitors front desk area, maintaining guest safety by conducting screenings including hand held metal detector search and bag checks. Leads shelter guests through smooth transition of shelter activities including but not limited to smoke breaks, housekeeping, night time activities, etc.
• Ensures that guests are checked in and awake by shelter’s designated time and that guests are in compliance with storage and locker regulations. Ensures guests are out of dorms by appointed time.
• To ensure safe environment assesses the health and wellness of guests and provides assistance for medical services/emergencies as required.
• Provides an accurate and updated head count of all guests in house during the shift to Lead Support Specialist.
• Ensures that safety practices are applied throughout the shelter and responds to alarms/emergencies as required.
• Maintains cleanliness of shelter office and designated staff restroom facilities and launders shelter linens.
• Supports and maintains the cleanliness of the shelter dorm areas, bathrooms and common areas by coordinating chores by guests and observing/inspecting results.
• Completes all necessary documentation in a timely manner.
• Answers phone calls and routes calls appropriately.
• Performs other duties as required.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Compassion for others and the ability to empathize with the condition of others is essential
• Understands and embraces the Housing-First model
• Associates Degree in Human Services or related field, or its equivalent preferred
• Safety Management Training; Mental Health and First Aid Training (CPR certification preferred)
• The ability to respond to stressful situations and de-escalate
• Experience in related field including working with individuals with mental health and addiction issues
• Ability to communicate effectively with guests and co-workers
• Bilingual in Spanish or Creole preferred
• Attentiveness to detail while multi-tasking numerous activities is required
• Basic computer skills (email, Microsoft Word, etc.)
• Ability to operate equipment including copy machines, washer/dryer, etc.
• Ability to lift moderate weights, push/ pull objects (trash, laundry bins, etc.)

This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. The job’s incumbent(s) are responsible for performing other business-related duties as assigned by management. Open Doors is an equal opportunity employer. Employment decisions will be made without regard to an applicant’s or employee’s race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, age, mental or physical disability, genetic predisposition, citizenship, marital status or status as victim of domestic violence, military status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: From $16.50 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• Evening shift
• Every weekend
• Holidays
• Night shift
• Overnight shift

Application Question(s):

• What are your salary expectations?

Experience:

• working with mental health/ addiction issues: 1 year (Preferred)

Language:

• Spanish (Preferred)

License/Certification:

• CPR Certification (Preferred)

Shift availability:

• Night Shift (Preferred)
• Overnight Shift (Preferred)

Work Location: In person