Position Summary
Under the direct supervision of the Director of Advocacy, the Shelter Assistant is responsible for the daily operation of the shelter and safety of residents. Provides direct client services for domestic violence and sexual assault.
Position Status, Classification and Schedule
This position is an hourly, full-time, non-exempt position. The work schedule will vary, as the shelter is a 24-hour operation.
The WRC utilizes a compressed workweek for Full Time staff including a 100-80-100 concept. 100% pay, 80% schedule and 100% focus on providing exceptional service to survivors and customers while maintaining a healthy work-life balance. This approach is progressive and reflective of our investment and commitment to reducing attrition, increasing engagement and maintaining a healthy work life balance.
General Qualifications
To perform the job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each typical requirement satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the typical functions.
• Knowledgeable in the dynamics of domestic violence and sexual assault.
• Culturally aware in the delivery of support and empowerment services to the survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault.
• Possess an automobile, comprehensive insurance and a valid Michigan driver’s license.
• Excellent writing, verbal communication and organizational skills.
• Proven computer skills including Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, and Excel).
• Strong attention to detail and ability to effectively manage multiple tasks.
• Ability to establish priorities, meet deadlines and manage unexpected events.
• Ability to work well both independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to build and maintain positive working relationships with co-workers.
• Effective conflict resolution skills.
• Must participate in at least 24 hours of skill building training annually, which may also involve travel.
• Must be committed to promoting agency mission and goals.
• Maintain CPR and Basic First Aid Certifications.
• Maintains regular and predictable attendance.
• Demonstrates the “Commitment to Coworkers”.
• Accepts and applies feedback.
Summary of Primary Duties and Responsibilities
• Maintains a safe and stable environment for individuals seeking safety due to domestic violence.
• Understands and follows current policies and procedures for all shelter operations.
• Welcomes new residents, completing intake and orientation. Clearly outlines shelter services and expectations.
• Monitors and enforces house rules and expectations as needed and according to protocol.
• Responds to clients’ needs and crisis utilizing an empowerment philosophy and according to protocol.
• Provides support and empathy to residents and their children.
• Acts as a positive role model for residents, demonstrating healthy boundaries, crisis response skills, resourcefulness, and positive parent child interactions.
• Maintains safety, security and cleanliness of the shelter facility and premises.
• Responds to facility issues and needs appropriately and according to protocol.
• Utilizes shelter notes, Outlook and communicates effectively with coworkers and Shelter manager.
• Provides support to Director of Advocacy, Shelter Coordinator and Advocates as assigned.
• Completes shift duties and walk-throughs thoroughly, at a minimum of twice each shift.
• Completes household cleaning tasks to supplement professional cleaning services.
• Cleans and prepares bedrooms after resident’s exits.
• Comply with Women’s Resource Center policies, including those related to professionalism and confidentiality.
• Complete other duties as assigned.
Education/Experience
High School diploma or G.E.D. Successful work or volunteer experience in a human service setting preferred. Strong interpersonal and communications skills. Multicultural awareness. Supports and understands empowerment philosophy. Computer proficiency required, including Windows and Microsoft applications. Must complete the Women’s Resource Center training program and all required background checks.
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees in this position. This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Other duties, responsibilities and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice. Employees are required to perform other duties as requested, directed or assigned.
EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY (EEO) POLICY
WRC extends employment opportunities to qualified applicants and employees without regard to age, race, color, sex, religion, national origin, pregnancy, marital status, veteran status, physical or mental disability unrelated to the employee’s ability to perform his/her job and/or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including, but not limited to, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, lay-off, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.
In accordance with applicable federal and state laws protecting qualified individuals with known disabilities, WRC will attempt to reasonably accommodate those individuals unless doing so would create an undue hardship. Any qualified applicant or employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the typical functions of the job should contact a representative of WRC.
Employees in Michigan who require accommodation for a qualifying disability must notify WRC in writing within 182 days after they know or reasonably should know that accommodation is needed.
