Residential Advocate

Way Finders•Springfield, MA

3d•$19 - $20•Onsite

About The Position

Way Finders is seeking a full-time, first-shift Residential Advocate to support families entering and living in a shelter. The role involves providing reception and customer service, supporting case managers with intakes and rehousing-related activities, responding to resident needs and emergencies, and helping maintain a safe, clean, and well-organized shelter environment. The position is fully onsite in Springfield, Massachusetts, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. The hourly wage is $19.25–$20.00, based on equivalent qualifications. A resume is required, and applications will be accepted until the position is filled. CORI/SORI checks apply.

Requirements

One year of equivalent frontline human-services experience or experience in a related role; a combination of experience and a high school diploma or equivalent may be a substitute.
Fundamental computer and Microsoft Office skills, with the ability to learn new technologies.
Excellent interpersonal skills, including empathy and patience.
Ability to respond to crises in a sometimes high-stress environment while using sound decision-making skills.
Ability to self-motivate and remain professional while working independently.
Ability to earn and maintain CPR certification as required by the program; training is provided.
Ability to navigate multiple flights of stairs in a home environment.
CORI/SORI screening.

Nice To Haves

Experience working with the homeless population is preferred.
Bilingual English/Spanish skills are appreciated but not required.

Responsibilities

Provide positive customer service and initial reception to families entering or currently living in the shelter.
Assist case managers with after-hours intakes and assigned activities related to rehousing plans, including assessing immediate needs and completing paperwork respectfully and thoroughly.
Provide professional backup during emergencies and call case managers, management, or external services such as ambulance or police when appropriate.
Stay informed about basic community resources, share them with clients as appropriate, and make referrals as directed by case managers.
Update the staff communication log each shift with pertinent information affecting the program, families, or clients.
Monitor cameras and doors to admit participants; receive and distribute packages and mail; and receive visitors, ensuring they sign in with identification.
Respond to and report serious incidents, promptly notifying the manager or on-call supervisor and completing required documentation.
Assign and monitor weekly housekeeping tasks, conduct unit inspections, issue non-compliance warnings as necessary, and complete unit turnovers as assigned.
Assist with resolving problems or issues that arise during the shift.
Observe, follow, and enforce shelter rules, regulations, policies, and procedures.
Respond to residents’ needs and requests in a timely manner and provide ongoing individual participant support as needed.
Manage program-supply inventory proactively to keep items stocked.
Maintain a clean and safe physical environment, including dusting, organizing, sweeping, mopping, and removing trash and debris.
Attend staff and individual professional development meetings and complete required training within designated timeframes.
Report maintenance needs according to established procedures.