Support Specialist - Kensington Campus (Saturday - Wednesday, 3pm - 11:30pm)

The People Concern•Lancaster, CA

6d•Onsite

About The Position

The Support Specialist works at The People Concern’s Lancaster Interim Housing program at the Kensington Campus. The role provides direct support to clients experiencing homelessness, mental illness, and substance addiction, helping maintain a safe, supportive environment and promoting client progress toward stability. The position uses client-centered, trauma-informed, harm-reduction, and housing-first approaches, and works collaboratively with clients and staff. This is a full-time, non-exempt, non-management position. It is 100% onsite and scheduled Saturday through Wednesday, 3:00 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. The role reports to the Program Manager.

Requirements

High school diploma, GED, or equivalent.
At least one year of experience in related work.
Effective customer service skills and ability to handle difficult situations.
Ability to work independently and think critically.
Ability to act professionally regardless of circumstances.
Commitment to improving the community through empowerment and dignity.
Familiarity with non-violent crisis intervention.
Familiarity with issues faced by the population served.
Ability to self-motivate and appropriately organize and motivate others.
Computer literacy, including ability to use a computerized database system for information management.
Ability to work as a team member.
Ability to obtain and maintain Food Handlers, CPR, and First Aid certifications.
Demonstrated ability to take initiative toward continued professional development.

Nice To Haves

Ability to communicate in a language other than English; strongly preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

Serve as the first point of contact for immediate client needs and requests, such as phone use, linens, and water.
Monitor and oversee floors and communal areas, including patios, bathrooms, dorms, and showers; uphold program guidelines and help keep the site maintained and safe through general cleaning.
Remain visible on the floor, actively engage with clients, and welcome them.
Conduct regular, thorough facility walk-throughs.
Create a supportive environment that encourages client progress toward stability.
Attend relevant staff meetings, trainings, and retreats as scheduled.
Oversee maintenance of client cubicle and bed areas in a trauma-informed manner.
Facilitate client engagement activities, such as groups and other activities.
Complete incident reports, update shift logs, document in HMIS as needed, and email relevant documents and updates before the end of each shift.
Develop effective, trusting relationships with clients using a client-centered approach that includes motivational interviewing, harm reduction, and trauma-informed care.
Intervene in crises and actively de-escalate situations with client and staff safety in mind, using non-violent communication skills.
Work as part of a team to provide comprehensive, integrated care to people experiencing homelessness, mental illness, and substance addiction.
Communicate effectively and promptly with management, peers, and clients.
Maintain client confidentiality and follow agency, state, and HIPAA laws.
Perform other duties as assigned.