Shelter Support Staff (Part-time)

The Women’s Center Massachusetts • New Bedford, MA

4d • Onsite

About The Position

The Women's Center (TWC) is a domestic violence and sexual assault service provider committed to helping survivors (women, men, youth, gender non-conforming folks) of Massachusetts' Southcoast on their journey to safety, hope, and empowerment. We provide trauma-informed, client-centered support and advocacy to individuals and families affected by abuse. Our emergency shelter serves adults and children affected by domestic violence and sexual assault. Shelter Support Staff provide a calm, friendly, and dependable presence during evening and overnight hours, helping keep the shelter safe and welcoming while residents go about their own routines. This is an entry-level position and a great fit for someone starting out in human services, a student, or anyone with a caring nature and a steady, responsible approach. This is not a social work, case management, or counseling role, and it does not involve assisting residents with personal care.

Requirements

• A warm, patient, and non-judgmental attitude toward people from all backgrounds.
• Reliability and the ability to stay alert and awake through an overnight shift.
• Good judgment and the ability to stay calm in stressful situations.
• Comfort using a phone system, basic computer programs, and camera monitoring equipment.
• A commitment to confidentiality and respect for residents' privacy and independence.
• High school diploma or equivalent.

Nice To Haves

• Experience or coursework in human services, social services, or security is a plus but not required.
• Spanish language proficiency is a strong plus.
• Proficiency in other languages is also valued.

Responsibilities

• Monitor security cameras and maintain awareness of the building and grounds.
• Log residents' comings and goings in and out of the shelter.
• Complete hourly walk-throughs of the shelter to check on safety and building conditions.
• Answer the 24-hour hotline and general phone calls, offering a supportive, respectful response to callers with domestic violence and sexual assault concerns, and sharing information and referrals according to agency guidelines.
• Be a welcoming, approachable presence for residents and their children.
• Follow safety, confidentiality, and emergency procedures, and document shift activity accurately.
• Communicate important information to incoming staff and supervisors.

Benefits

• Paid training on trauma-informed care, hotline response, and shelter safety procedures.
• Flexible part-time schedule with opportunities for extra hours.
• Experience that builds a foundation for a career in human services.
• The chance to support survivors and their families in a meaningful way.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED