Part-time Client Support Specialist-Anderson Shelter

Position Summary
The Client Support Specialist (CSS) is a key member of the Shelter Operations and Client Support Team, responsible for providing trauma-informed support and promoting structure and community living within the shelter environment. CSS staff carry a shelter support caseload and offer consistent engagement, structure reminders, and behavioral support to clients as they navigate communal spaces. CSS staff play a vital role in reinforcing shelter expectations, building rapport with clients, documenting support interactions, and identifying patterns that may require additional attention or referral. The CSS works collaboratively with Shelter Operations team members and leadership to maintain an emotionally safe, structured, and welcoming space for all clients.
This is a part-time, hourly, non-exempt position
Reports to: Director of Shelter Operations
Key Responsibilities
Client Support & Community Living Engagement
Carry a caseload of assigned clients and provide consistent, trauma-informed support focused on shelter engagement, community living expectations, and emotional well-being
Offer regular check-ins, structure reminders, and behavioral guidance related to shared space use, boundaries, and routines
Support clients in adjusting to the shelter environment through emotional presence, structure reinforcement, and clear communication
Refer clients to the Advocacy Team for needs related to advocacy services
Document all support interactions accurately and in a timely manner
Observe and report emerging client patterns related to communal living, safety, or emotional regulation
Maintain awareness of assigned clients' shelter experience and provide timely follow-up on behavioral concerns, emotional needs, or program engagement
Maintains professional boundaries with clients while offering respectful, nonjudgmental support in daily shelter routines
Collaborate with supervisors to adjust support strategies when ongoing concerns arise
Respond calmly to moments of emotional distress, using de-escalation techniques when appropriate and promptly notifying leadership of safety concerns
Process new arrivals during assigned shifts by completing initial documentation, reviewing expectations, and assisting with orientation
Participate in room preparation and initial walkthroughs to ensure space readiness for each client
Provide welcoming, trauma-informed introductions to shelter routines and shared living expectations
Documentation & Communication
Document all relevant client interactions, incidents, or shelter concerns using agency-approved systems
Report emerging client patterns, concerns, or follow-up needs to Shelter Operations leadership
Respond to helpline calls in accordance with agency procedures and trauma-informed practices
Follow up on assigned tasks and ensure documentation is completed accurately and on time
Demonstrates reliability by completing assigned tasks within expected timeframes and notifying the supervisor of any delays or barriers
Shelter Operations Support
Conduct routine shelter walk-throughs to maintain a consistent staff presence, support respectful use of shared spaces, and observe for any safety, emotional, or environmental concerns that may need follow-up
Assist with room setup, restocking of staff/client supplies, and assigned cleaning checks
Assign and verify completion of client household chores based on shift responsibilities and communal living expectations
Monitor doors and gates during assigned shifts to help ensure safety and secure access
Participate in client engagement activities such as Fun Nights, shelter celebrations, and shelter decoration projects
Respond to and document helpline calls in accordance with agency procedures
Dispense over the counter (OTC) medications and personal care items as requested
Team Collaboration
Collaborate with Shelter Operations and Client Support team members to ensure consistent support and smooth shelter flow
Participate in team check-ins, shelter walk-throughs, trainings, and shift communication
Assist with shadow training of new team members to support consistent onboarding and modeling of expectations
Maintain regular communication with supervisors to report concerns, receive guidance, and ensure alignment with shelter standards
Adjusts to changes in client needs, shift demands, or shelter flow while maintaining consistency in role expectations
Additional Responsibilities
Attends required staff meetings, supervision sessions, and trainings to stay informed of program updates and expectations
Actively participates in onboarding, ongoing training, and professional development to strengthen trauma-informed practices and shelter operations knowledge
Enthusiastically represents and supports the mission, vision of Safe Harbor in all interactions with clients, teammates, and community partners
Completes other duties as assigned by the supervisor and/or agency leadership
Assists with any additional responsibilities necessary to support a safe, structured, and supportive shelter environment
Qualifications
1–2 years of experience in shelter, residential, or communal living environments preferred
Familiarity with trauma-informed care and structured support approaches
Strong communication, documentation, and follow-through skills
Computer literacy required, including the ability to navigate client databases and use Microsoft Office products (Outlook, Word, Excel, Teams) for documentation and internal communication
High school diploma or GED required
Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation
Work Environment & Physical Requirements
Based in a residential shelter setting with active client engagement
Requires walking, standing, climbing stairs and light lifting, with a focus on direct support and shared space upkeep
Must maintain emotional composure and professionalism in high-stress or crisis situations
Follows all safety, documentation policies and procedures
Expected to uphold strict confidentiality in all shelter-related documentation, communication, and interactions both onsite and external

Employment type
Part-Time

Work arrangement
No