Program Specialist
About The Position
The Program Specialist is responsible for the day-to-day care of program clients/residents and their children, if applicable. This role may involve working in a low threshold overnight shelter, an interim (120) program, or a transitional living program. The specialist is tasked with maintaining a safe and secure environment, modeling positive behaviors, coaching residents on decision-making, and collaborating closely with case management to reinforce case plans. The general purpose of this position is to promote and maintain The Night Ministry's mission to serve homeless clients aged 14-24 and their children, if applicable.
Requirements
- Must fully align with TNM's strategy and mission.
- High School diploma or equivalent required.
- At least 1 year of recent experience working with at-risk youth (volunteer experience counts).
- Ability to pass DCFS licensing requirements.
- Current driver's license and proof of insurability.
- Successful completion of TNM Foundations Training within six (6) months of hire.
- Completion and maintenance of Mandated Reporter certificate.
Nice To Haves
- Crisis intervention training a plus.
- First aid/CPR training a plus.
- Completion of First Aid/CPR Certification (within two years).
- Completion of crisis intervention training (within two years).
Responsibilities
- Complete initial intakes with new residents on the day of arrival, including all necessary paperwork.
- Attend all weekly staff meetings and mandatory training sessions.
- Perform accurate and timely data entry in Efforts to Outcomes (ETO).
- Record daily activities, resident progress, and significant issues for each shift in the log, and be available to update incoming staff. Review the log carefully at the start of each shift.
- Promptly greet visitors and callers, referring and assisting them professionally as needed.
- Supervise, direct, and ensure the consistent application and maintenance of all Night Ministry policies, procedures, and 'house rules'.
- Direct and assist residents with basic life skills development for themselves and their children, if applicable (e.g., personal hygiene, cleaning, cooking, laundry, childcare).
- Arrange for residents' transportation to appointments and activities; may drive a company vehicle with prior approval.
- Ensure residents' safety and well-being at all times; promptly report any unusual incidents, rule infractions, emergencies, or visits by outside agencies (e.g., police, fire, DCFS) to the on-call supervisor.
- Provide the best possible service for residents and identify opportunities to improve facility and agency operations.
- Display qualities of consistency, fair-play, firm but kind control, clear boundary-setting, tolerance, flexibility, and professional demeanor.
- Coordinate work responsibilities with volunteers, informing case management or the volunteer coordinator of any questions or issues.
- Inform case management and the Program Supervisor promptly of any resident issues, either verbally or in writing.
- Instruct residents in the monthly fire drill (emergency) procedure.
- Make referrals to other shelters, institutions, or organizations as necessary.
- Undertake special tasks and projects as assigned, which may include coordinating field trips.
- Regularly check the employee mailbox for notices, updates, and communications.
- Attend all staff meetings and any required special training.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
