Evening Counselor, Men's Inn

PINE STREET INN INC • Boston, MA

7h • Onsite

About The Position

The Guest Services Specialist (GSS) operates according to Pine Street Inn policy and procedures to maintain a safe shelter environment for both guests and staff. This role primarily focuses on direct guest care, requiring timely and professional responses based on the prioritization of guests’ needs. The GSS is instrumental in developing and implementing housing pathways by motivating guests towards housing solutions and connecting them with appropriate resources. Additionally, Guest Services Specialists assist guests in accessing substance abuse, mental health, and medical resources when the shelter cannot safely meet their needs. The position demands sustained energy and focus, even amidst ambiguous and strenuous demands. Responsibilities include entering data into the Homeless Management Information (HMIS) system, documenting reports in line with agency policy, making sound decisions, and seeking supervisor guidance when necessary.

Requirements

• High School diploma or GED
• Minimum of one (1) year of experience in the Human Services field
• Ability to stand for long periods of time
• Ability to stretch, bend and lift up to (twenty-five) 25 lbs
• Ability to assist guests up and down stairs, and in-and-out of wheelchairs
• Ability to respond quickly to emergencies
• Ability to respond safely, quickly, and calmly in emergencies and to emergency situations
• Ability to use good judgement in stressful or emotionally charged situations
• The sensitivity and patience to work with guests suffering from mental illness (many untreated), alcohol and other drug addiction and abuse
• Ability to be resilient in difficult and ambiguous situations
• Ability to handle multiple assignments
• Ability to communicate clearly both verbally and in writing
• Ability to comprehend and apply Motivational Interviewing and Trauma-Informed Care skills
• Ability to communicate/speak (as well as to listen) in a non-judgmental manner

Nice To Haves

• Valid MA driver’s license in good standing
• Bilingual English/Spanish
• Administering Narcan and in a work setting
• Knowledge in the areas of addiction, recovery, and mental illness
• Knowledge of issues pertaining to the homeless
• Knowledge of area resources

Responsibilities

• Ensure a safe shelter environment for guests and staff.
• Respond to guests in a timely and professional manner based on the prioritization of guests’ needs.
• Assist with the development and implementation of a housing pathway by motivating guests to rapidly work on housing.
• Connect guests to appropriate housing resources.
• Assist guests in connecting with substance abuse, mental health and medical resources when the shelter cannot safely accommodate a guests needs.
• Stay energized and focused even when demands are ambiguous and strenuous.
• Enter data into the Homeless Management Information (HMIS) system.
• Document reports in keeping with agency policy.
• Make sound decisions and appropriately seek guidance from a supervisor.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED
• Number of Employees: 251-500 employees