Shelter Assistant - 3rd Shift

Shelter Assistant

Organization: The Haven of Transylvania County
Reports to: Shelter Services Manager

Program Description

The Haven operates two full-time facilities:

Haven Thomas House – an 18-bed overnight shelter for single adults experiencing homelessness.

Haven Family House – a 4-bedroom shelter that can accommodate up to 16 people or 4 families with children.

Both shelters offer laundry facilities, showers, mail service, and telephone messaging services, providing a safe and supportive environment for our guests.

Position Overview

The Shelter Assistant is responsible for ensuring the safety, cleanliness, and smooth operation of both shelter facilities. This role combines property oversight, guest management, and security duties to create a safe and welcoming environment for individuals and families experiencing homelessness.

Shelter Assistants play a vital role in helping guests stabilize and transition toward permanent housing while modeling The Haven’s values of dignity, accountability, and respect.

Key Responsibilities

Safety & Security

• Follow all safety and security policies at all times
• Patrol shelter grounds and common areas and monitor CCTV systems
• Secure all doors, gates, and alarms at required times
• Document nightly occurrences and report suspicious activity or incidents
• Respond to emergencies and contact appropriate authorities when necessary
• Administer CPR/First Aid when needed

Property Management

• Prepare rooms and beds for new guests and clean/sanitize after discharge
• Conduct regular facility inspections to ensure safety and cleanliness
• Maintain a clean, organized environment in all shelter areas
• Track and report supply needs to supervisory staff
• Organize and manage donation storage areas
• Clean office areas and staff bathrooms and maintain them in an orderly condition
• Report maintenance issues or repair needs promptly

Guest Management

• Conduct guest intakes and orient new guests to shelter policies and expectations
• Ensure shelter policies and house rules are followed consistently
• Address rule violations appropriately and document incidents
• Facilitate house meetings at least twice monthly and maintain attendance records
• Administer drug or alcohol screenings when required by policy
• Assist in conflict resolution among guests
• Utilize trauma-informed and de-escalation techniques when addressing guest concerns or conflicts
• Maintain a respectful, safe, and supportive environment for all guests

Administrative Duties

• Maintain clear and accurate logs, reports, and documentation
• Communicate important information to staff through email, shift notes, and phone communication
• Attend required staff meetings and trainings
• Assist with basic recordkeeping and administrative tasks when needed

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; additional training in human services preferred
• Experience in homeless services, social services, or customer service preferred
• Lived experience of homelessness considered an asset
• Basic proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and internet use
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays as scheduled
• Ability to remain calm and professional in challenging situations
• CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain)
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) helpful but not required
• Must pass background check and drug screening

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds
• Ability to stand, walk, and climb stairs during shifts
• Ability to perform cleaning and light maintenance tasks
• Ability to respond quickly in emergency situations

Working Conditions

This role involves exposure to cleaning products, building maintenance materials, and occasional interaction with individuals experiencing crisis, trauma, or behavioral health challenges.

Staff may work independently during some shifts and must be comfortable managing interruptions and responding to emergency situations when necessary.

Equal Opportunity Employer – Living Wage Certified

The Haven of Transylvania County is committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive work environment for all employees. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law.

Job Types: Part-time, Contract

Pay: $18.50 per hour

Benefits:

• Paid time off

Education:

• High school or equivalent (Preferred)

License/Certification:

• Driver’s License (Required)

Shift availability:

• Overnight Shift (Required)

Ability to Commute:

• Brevard, NC 28712 (Required)

Work Location: In person