Director of Program Operations - Hudson Bay

Lantern Community Services Inc•New York, NY

2d•Onsite

About The Position

Lantern Community Services helps New Yorkers impacted by homelessness move from surviving to thriving by pairing safe, supportive housing with wraparound services that build lasting stability and independence. Lantern was also recognized as a Top 2025 Workplace by City & State New York - a great place to do meaningful work with people who care. Hudson Bay is a brand-new, all-female shelter in the Bronx housing 200 women aged 55 and older. The Director of Program Operations (DPO) oversees the day-to-day operations of the shelter and supervises a team of Shift Supervisors, Residential Aides, and drivers. This role works in close coordination with the Program Director, Social Services, Maintenance, and Security teams. The DPO is responsible for implementing operational policies and procedures, training and supporting staff, managing schedules, conducting performance reviews, and ensuring compliance with all DHS shelter regulations. The Director also plays a critical role in maintaining a safe and effective work environment.

Requirements

High school diploma required
Minimum of eight years of DHS shelter operations experience, including at least two years in a supervisory capacity.
Strong leadership, collaboration, and delegation skills with the ability to manage teams effectively.
Demonstrated ability to work well under pressure, including during crisis or emergency situations.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with strong organizational abilities.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office, including strong Excel skills, and comfort working with databases such as CARES.
Ability to utilize data and reporting tools to support compliance, track outcomes, and inform program decision-making.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree preferred
Bilingual or multilingual skills preferred

Responsibilities

Oversee daily shelter operations, including access control, bed sign-in procedures, supply distribution, meal rosters, property storage, dorm inspections, logbooks, and incident reporting.
Ensure full compliance with the Callahan Consent Decree and all DHS shelter operational requirements.
Supervise and support Shift Supervisors, Residential Aides, and drivers to ensure safe, client-centered service delivery.
Maintain appropriate staffing coverage at all times, including emergencies, severe weather, and disaster situations.
Conduct regular supervision, performance evaluations, coaching, and disciplinary actions as needed.
Ensure staff receive required certifications and ongoing training, including Safe Crisis Management techniques.
Oversee contracted service providers (maintenance, security, food service, laundry, property management) and track vendor activity.
Manage ordering, inventory, and monthly audits of operational, building, and client supplies.
Ensure clients have timely access to meals, laundry, toiletries, and that food service meets NYC food safety standards.
Complete and monitor required DHS reporting, including BCS food service reports and CARES vacancy reporting.
Review and document incident reports, grievances, operational complaints, and follow-up actions.
Maintain compliance documentation, including fire safety records and the site’s critical binder.
Conduct building inspections with the Building Superintendent; track repairs, violations, and remediation.
Oversee fleet operations, including vehicle scheduling, inspections, maintenance, and documentation.
Build strong relationships with internal teams, security staff, and external partners to support smooth shelter operations.
Perform other duties as assigned.