Resident Advocate-Bernal-Swing (Fri -Tues)
About The Position
The Resident Advocate works at HomeFirst’s Emergency Interim Housing (EIH) Bernal program in San Jose, a low-barrier, housing-focused and harm-reduction program for adults experiencing homelessness. The referral-based program provides onsite support services and helps participants transition from emergency interim housing to permanent housing. The Resident Advocate is responsible for day-to-day site operations and responds to participants’ needs, helps coordinate access to onsite services and amenities, and supports participant, staff, and guest safety through check-ins and monitoring of the grounds and sleeping units. The role reports to the on-site Program Manager and is a vital member of the Bernal site. The position is primarily direct service, supporting participants with housing plans, referrals, workshops, crisis response, and essential supplies. It also includes site inspections, documentation, general upkeep, administrative tasks, and representing HomeFirst to visitors and community partners. The ideal candidate is empathetic, reliable, collaborative, and able to communicate effectively and de-escalate situations in a fast-paced environment.
Requirements
- Associate degree or equivalent to two years of higher education, or two years of field experience in social services.
- Sensitivity to the needs of unhoused individuals.
- Experience working with the unhoused population.
Responsibilities
- Provide care, safety, and supervision for program participants and guests.
- Implement and enforce EIH guidelines and site rules.
- Welcome guests and check them in and out using the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS).
- Document services in HMIS within three business days.
- Complete participant intakes, including accurate VI-SPDAT assessments.
- Help participants create, update, and reassess personalized housing plans and work toward housing goals.
- Make timely decisions in emergencies, considering safety, mandated reporting, and appropriate contacts.
- Promote and lead weekly workshops on topics such as financial literacy, tenant rights, resume building, job searching, and credit repair.
- Respond to crises using de-escalation and Mental Health First Aid techniques as applicable.
- Follow service delivery practices including Trauma Informed Care, client-centered practice, and the Crisis Prevention Intervention model.
- Complete incident reports, behavioral contracts, and gross violation documentation as needed.
- Provide information, referrals, housing resources, and program support.
- Distribute clothing, linens, toiletries, and other program supplies; restock supplies and request orders in a timely manner.
- Inspect cabins, complete inspection sheets, and support participants with treatment of property before move-in.
- Help maintain the site, report maintenance or janitorial needs, and conduct cabin, facility, and perimeter checks.
- Assist with setup and breakdown for special events and activities.
- Complete and file paperwork promptly, maintain professional conduct, and communicate or delegate tasks to the next shift.
- Maintain confidentiality and comply with employee handbook, agency, and site policies and procedures.
- Provide empathetic listening, problem-solving, information and referral, mediation, crisis intervention, and conflict resolution while treating guests with respect and dignity.
- Represent HomeFirst and the program appropriately to volunteers, donors, outside agencies, and the public.
- Assist with office-related tasks, attend mandatory meetings, workshops, and trainings, and perform other assigned duties.
Benefits
- 100% employer-paid medical, dental, and vision coverage.
- Wellness options including chiropractic care, mental health support, pet insurance, and an Employee Assistance Program.
- 401(k) retirement plan with generous matching.
- Life and disability insurance.
- Flexible spending accounts.
- Commuter benefits.
- Workers’ compensation.
- 12 holidays.
- Sick leave.
- Paid time off starting at 15 days annually and increasing with tenure.
- Four hours of annual civic engagement leave for volunteering.
Stand Out From the Crowd
Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.
What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
Associate degree
