Residential Advocate (AM Shift)

SafeNest•Las Vegas, NV

8h•Onsite

About The Position

Since 1977, SafeNest has been a leading force in the fight to end domestic and sexual violence. Dedicated to a holistic and innovative approach, SafeNest works tirelessly with survivors, abusive partners, and children impacted by interpersonal violence. With a steadfast commitment to breaking the cycle of abuse, SafeNest serves over 11,000 clients annually, delivering more than 170,000 life-changing services. As Nevada’s largest provider of interpersonal violence services, SafeNest’s impact is driven by its exceptional team of professionals. We recognize that our people are our greatest asset, which is why we offer competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits, and an empowering work environment. Together, we are building a safer, more compassionate community. The Residential Advocate provides direct advocacy, operational support, and crisis response within SafeNest's residential shelter. This position requires a commitment to assisting survivors - including those in residential sites to achieve self-defined goals, while also ensuring the smooth day-to-day function of the shelter environment. The ideal candidate brings strong communication skills, a trauma-informed approach, the ability to maintain professional boundaries, and acceptance of social and cultural diversity.

Requirements

Robust understanding of issues facing survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and other violent crimes.
Commitment to providing client-centered, empowerment-based services to survivors of crime.
Bachelor's Degree from an accredited institution (social services field preferred).
3–5 years of professional experience with increasing responsibility, preferably in a domestic violence shelter or related social service setting.
Strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills with high self-awareness.
Strong attention to detail and proficient computer skills for administrative tasks.
Sensitivity to issues of domestic violence, sexual violence, and trauma.
Ability to remain calm and effective in a hectic environment.
Knowledge of local resources and services for survivors.
Able to pass background check and drug screen.
Valid driver's license, reliable transportation, proof of insurance, and clean driving record.
Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, overnight shifts, and holidays as needed.

Nice To Haves

Bilingual English/Spanish.
Prior experience in a shelter or residential services environment.

Responsibilities

Direct Client Services & Survivor Support: Welcome survivors with compassionate, non-judgmental support in a trauma-informed environment. Conduct intake, check-ins, and ongoing follow-up advocacy with clients. Support survivor safety and assist with individualized safety planning. Provide immediate needs including food, clothing, toiletries, and bedding for residents and their families. Prepare beds for new arrivals and clean beds along with gathering belongings from the bed and/or assigned locker when the client has transitioned. Update the campus board. Provide advocacy on behalf of clients working with community-based systems such as law enforcement, courts, social services, mental health providers, and substance abuse services. Accompany clients to appointments to secure financial assistance, explore long-term housing options, arrange for childcare, and obtain legal assistance. Provide legal advocacy including assistance with protection orders, survivors compensation, divorce filings, child support, and criminal/civil court support. Educate survivors on their rights, available resources, and options for empowerment. Identify community resources and maintain good working relationships with community programs serving clients. Immediately report suspected child abuse and neglect to Child Protective Services. Prepare and assist with client transitions when needed.
Shelter Operations: Oversee daily shelter operations including gate entry access, inventory needs, and front house cleanliness and safety. Maintain records of shelter occupancy, incidents, and services provided. Coordinate with shelter staff and volunteers to ensure a safe, welcoming environment. Collaborate with internal and external partners to meet the shelter's operational needs. Conduct hourly rounds to ensure safety and security on campus. Facilitate weekly house meetings for residents. Facilitate weekly pet owner meetings. Facilitate residential group programs - art group, cooking class, financial literacy, meditation, etc.
Administrative Duties: Answer phones, screen and direct calls, and manage general inquiries. Manage the Shelter's appointment and scheduling system. Maintain a welcoming, clean, and organized front desk area. Handle mail, packages, and deliveries for the shelter. Compile quantitative and qualitative data and ensure accuracy and timeliness of client file management. Present client progress or barriers during weekly residential case staffings. Attend weekly Residential Advocate check in meetings to discuss campus/Safenest updates, upcoming trainings, and room for improvement.
Crisis Support: Collaborate with Transitional Housing Advocacy and Child Watch Advocacy staff on urgent needs and emergencies. Ensure the availability of crisis resources and follow established protocols and processes. Prepare to de-escalate clients if needed. Follow the conflict resolution guide.
Training & Education: Stay informed about domestic and sexual violence issues, survivor needs, trauma-informed language, and maintaining a healing space for residents. Provide training to new shelter staff and volunteers on operational procedures. Attend all mandatory trainings that are scheduled with ample time to make any arrangements needed.