Recovery Engagement Specialist I

Healing Transitions • Raleigh, NC

7d • $0 - $19

About The Position

The Recovery Engagement Specialist I provides social support and services to individuals experiencing homelessness and substance use disorders in an emergency shelter. The role focuses on participant engagement, shelter operations, safety, crisis management, intake and exit processes, and accurate documentation. The Specialist works with shelter staff, community partners, law enforcement, and other departments to connect participants with appropriate support and resources.

The position involves setting up and managing the shelter, orienting guests, conducting intake interviews and HMIS assessments, maintaining shelter records and supplies, and coordinating daily activities and transportation to meals. The Specialist conducts regular shelter rounds, performs guest searches using a metal detector wand, responds to high-risk situations, and uses de-escalation and crisis management skills. The role also coordinates referrals and resources with community partners, including after-hours referrals.

The work environment includes standard office equipment and occasional exposure to wet or humid outdoor conditions, with a moderate typical noise level. The position may require travel to other campuses or locations for mandatory meetings or training. English is the primary language used, and additional languages are a valuable asset. Reasonable accommodations are available for individuals with disabilities.

Requirements

• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.
• At least 6 months of sustained recovery and demonstrated knowledge of recovery principles.
• Negative pre-employment drug test; employees must comply with the organization's policy prohibiting misuse of drugs and alcohol in the workplace.
• Familiarity with relevant codes of ethics, boundaries, and self-care.
• Ability to multitask and prioritize in a fast-paced environment.
• Sound judgment and effective use of available resources.
• Good organizational skills and attention to detail, including thorough and accurate documentation.
• Nonjudgmental, empathetic, trustworthy, and attentive listening skills; passion for the impacted population.
• Willingness to take initiative.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to build rapport and collaborate effectively with guests, colleagues, and community partners.
• Adaptability to changing environments, schedules, cultures, and processes; ability to maintain emotional stability in high-stress situations.
• Proficiency in Excel, Outlook, Microsoft Word, and data entry.
• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret common documents; respond to common inquiries or complaints; and present information effectively to top management and public groups.
• Ability to meet the stated physical demands, including occasionally lifting and/or moving more than 30 pounds, with reasonable accommodations available.
• Ability to travel to other campuses or locations for mandatory meetings and/or training.

Nice To Haves

• Completion of Peer Support Specialist certification after 1 year (preferred).
• Completion of a high school diploma or equivalent (preferred).
• Speaking additional languages is a valuable asset.
• Creativity, humility, and openness to continued growth and learning.

Responsibilities

• Set up and break down the shelter.
• Oversee guest check-in procedures, including bed assignments, searches, and storage of guest property such as medication, cell phones, and weapons.
• Maintain accurate rosters and shelter cards to account for guests using the shelter.
• Follow organizational policies and procedures.
• Maintain an inventory of shelter items issued to participants, including towels, blankets, and hygiene items.
• Perform additional duties as assigned to support shelter operations.
• Introduce guests to staff and orient them to the shelter.
• Accurately and confidentially document participant observations and incidents.
• Offer support, encouragement, and connections to resources.
• Coordinate chores, kitchen volunteers, meeting attendance, laundry volunteers, and transportation to meals during the shift.
• Conduct intake interviews with guests upon first engagement, including completing HMIS assessments.
• Conduct exit interviews and direct shelter guests to relevant community resources.
• Conduct regular shelter rounds to help ensure a safe environment for staff, guests, and program participants.
• Search guests, including using a metal detector wand.
• Assess, support, and refer clients exhibiting or at risk of violent, self-destructive, or dangerous behavior.
• Use de-escalation and crisis management skills.
• Coordinate with community partners to connect guests with resources when Healing Transitions cannot meet their immediate needs.
• Coordinate with staff or on-call personnel during emergencies or high-risk situations.
• Collaborate with law enforcement, community partners, and other programs on after-hours referrals.
• Establish, foster, and maintain relationships with community partners.
• Maintain working knowledge of unhoused resources in the community.
• Travel to another campus or location for mandatory meetings and/or training when required.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed