Shelter Lead Resident Assistant

Volunteers of America Upstate NY•City of Ithaca, NY
•$27 - $29•Onsite

About The Position

The Lead Resident Assistant provides direct support to clients residing in the shelter, helps create a safe and structured environment, and supervises Resident Assistants. The role works closely with shelter management and case managers to address client needs, complete documentation, and ensure program rules are followed. The Lead Resident Assistant also supports shelter staff, responds to client concerns, and helps develop and maintain consistent program structure. The position is temporary and full-time at the Cherry St. Code Blue Shelter in Ithaca, New York. It is non-exempt, pays $27.00–$29.00 per hour, involves negligible travel, and reports to the Shelter Program Manager.

Requirements

  • High school diploma or GED.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills, including the ability to work with people in crisis and vulnerable populations.
  • Basic computer skills.
  • Ability to obtain adult and pediatric first aid/CPR certification.
  • Ability to work in a changing and challenging environment.
  • Ability to occasionally lift loads of 30 pounds without assistance.
  • Ability to climb stairs; occasional walking and standing are required, as are the abilities to sit, talk, and hear.

Responsibilities

  • Provide supervision, guidance, and support to Resident Assistants during shifts.
  • Conduct regular supervision meetings with Resident Assistants to review performance, address challenges, and support professional growth.
  • Assist shelter management with scheduling, assigning duties, and ensuring adequate staff coverage.
  • Respond to and resolve client complaints in a timely and professional manner.
  • Help develop, implement, and enforce shelter rules, procedures, and program structure.
  • Serve as a point of contact for Resident Assistants when issues arise during shifts.
  • Provide empathetic, compassionate, and non-judgmental assistance to clients in crisis, offering emotional support and building rapport.
  • Assist with, oversee, and implement daily shelter programs and activities, including meal distribution, recreation, laundry, chores, and room turnovers.
  • Assist with meal preparation, serving, and cleanup during designated times.
  • Handle crisis situations calmly and efficiently according to established procedures.
  • Collaborate with team members to address immediate concerns and ensure client safety.
  • Enforce shelter rules and policies consistently and fairly.
  • Maintain accurate and current records, including daily shift logs, incident reports, and rule violations.
  • Communicate effectively with shelter management and check and respond to email during every shift.
  • Attend and participate in mandatory meetings and trainings.
  • Assist with client intakes and discharges as necessary.
  • Monitor the facility by answering phones, conducting rounds, and viewing cameras.
  • Complete daily room inspections according to shelter policies to ensure safety, cleanliness, and compliance.
  • Turn over rooms when clients leave, including laundry and cleaning as necessary.
  • Assist coworkers with responsibilities as needs arise.
  • Perform other duties requested to benefit clients and shelter programs.
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