Shelter Support Specialist

Northern Virginia Family Services•Manassas, VA

4d•Onsite

About The Position

Join the NVFS Family: We are looking to hire Shelter Support Specialist to join the SERVE Homeless Shelter team. In this role, you will provide essential 24-hour awake coverage and supervision at the SERVE Emergency Family Shelter, helping ensure a safe, supportive, and welcoming environment for shelter guests. As a Shelter Support Specialist, you are considered essential personnel and play a critical role in supporting the safety, well-being, and comfort of families staying at the shelter. Using best practices such as motivational interviewing, trauma-informed care, and harm reduction, you will provide daily support and help guests navigate resources during their stay. WHAT MAKES THIS ROLE SPECIAL: OUR SERVE SHELTER PROVIDES MORE THAN TEMPORARY HOUSING, IT OFFERS STABILITY, DIGNITY, AND SUPPORT DURING DIFFICULT TIMES. AS A SHELTER SUPPORT SPECIALIST, YOU PLAY A VITAL ROLE IN CREATING A SAFE AND COMPASSIONATE ENVIRONMENT WHERE FAMILIES EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS CAN BEGIN TO REBUILD AND MOVE TOWARD LONG-TERM STABILITY.

Requirements

Relevant experience or a degree in the human services field preferred, with some knowledge of working with and supporting individuals in crisis
Attendance reliability
Oral and written fluency in English
CPR/1st Aide certification preferred; if not certified, must be willing and able to obtain certification through NVFS-provided training
Ability to interact and communicate respectfully and effectively with shelter guests, visitors, and staff
Demonstrated ability to stay calm in stressful situations and maintain professional boundaries while supporting shelter guests
Successful completion of background checks upon hire
TB test

Nice To Haves

Some work experience in any of the following areas: customer service, Direct Support Professional (DSP) with the elderly or developmentally disabled, hospitality services such as hotel/front desk duties, residential services, daycare, childcare, or teaching, security or safety
Bilingual skills in client languages such as Spanish, Creole, and Farsi a plus
May be called upon to drive the agency van to transport guests to appointments and other services if clear Motor Vehicle Record and a valid U.S. driver’s license

Responsibilities

Ensure the safety and security of guests, volunteers, visitors, and staff by conducting regular internal and external perimeter checks and communicating shelter expectations
Conduct shelter orientations for guests within 24 hours of entry to review policies, expectations, and available resources
Work in partnership with Housing Counselors to support guest intake, eligibility screening, and program enrollment
Assist guests with housing searches and support progress toward rapid rehousing goals
Help guests apply for essential services and documentation such as ID cards, Social Security cards, and birth certificates
Conduct room and personal property inspections during shifts
Respond to emergencies by following agency and shelter protocols, including evacuations when necessary
Document and report incidents according to agency guidelines
Work collaboratively with volunteers, contractors, and donors
Promote respectful and positive interactions among shelter guests
Support cleanliness and upkeep of the shelter and grounds, including basic cleaning tasks when needed
Participate in regular supervision with the Program Supervisor and provide updates on guest needs and shelter operations
Maintain guest files and ensure accurate data entry according to program requirements and NVFS guidelines
Maintain familiarity with shelter systems, procedures, and program software