Assistant Shelter Coordinator

Purpose Society; New Westminster; On-site; CAD 33,000 - 47,000; Full time

Job summary

Purpose Society is seeking an Assistant Shelter Coordinator to support the Shelter Coordinator at the Purpose Overnight Shelter in New Westminster, BC. The role involves administrative, operational, and programming support for a 24/7 shelter serving around 50 residents each night.

The position is 40 hours per week, Wednesday to Sunday 10:00am–6:00pm, paying $29.00 per hour. A degree or a two-year diploma with front-line harm reduction experience is required, plus First Aid/CPR and strong

Qualifications

• A degree from a recognized university in a relevant discipline or a two-year diploma with 4 years of front-line harm reduction experience.
• Experience with vulnerable populations, mental health, addiction, homelessness; strong first aid and CPR credentials.
• Proven ability to work in fast-paced, crisis-prone environments with a client-centered approach.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Shelter Coordinator in overseeing nightly shelter operations in an administrative capacity.
• Coordinate shifts, ensure coverage, schedule staff training.
• Maintain shelter data, prepare reports, and handle required documentation.
• Provide information and direction to employees in the absence of the Shelter Coordinator.
• Contribute to process improvements in day-to-day shelter operations with the Shelter Coordinator.
• Monitor site safety, initiate crisis management as needed, report safety concerns.
• Prepare monthly Risk Management Safety Inspection reports.
• Record staff meeting minutes and support program evaluation with positive outcomes.
• Build relationships with City of New Westminster, police, fire, and community partners.

Skills

Microsoft Suite

Highly organized

Problem solving

Crisis management

Team collaboration

Verbal and written communication

Non-judgmental approach

Work under pressure

First Aid/CPR

Education

University degree in a relevant discipline

Two-year post-secondary diploma in relevant discipline

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Assistant Shelter Coordinator

Work Site: 502 Front Street Mews, New Westminster V3M 1B8

Salary: $29.00 / hour

Hours: 40 hours per week (Wednesday - Sunday 10:00am - 6:00pm with some flexibility)

Reports to: Shelter Coordinator and Program Director

Who We Are

Purpose Society is a community-based multi-service organization dedicated to delivering comprehensive programs for children, youth, and families. We focus on enhancing well-being, strengthening family functioning, and promoting personal responsibility through a client-centered approach. Our services are provided in a safe, respectful environment that values diversity and community connection.

The Opportunity

We are seeking a passionate and committed Assistant Shelter Coordinator who will provide administrative, operational, and programming Support to the Shelter Coordinator of the Purpose Overnight Shelter. The Assistant Shelter Coordinator must be compassionate, composed, and able to exercise good judgment in unpredictable circumstances. The Purpose Overnight Shelter operates 24 hours per day/ 7 days a week. The shelter currently provides a cot, linen, meals to approximately 50 individuals per night. The Shower Project operates 24 hours per day, 7 days a week.

What You’ll Do

• Assist the Shelter Coordinator in overseeing nightly shelter operations in an administrative capacity
• Coordinate shifts, ensures proper coverage, schedules staff training
• Maintain efficient and accurate shelter data (electronic), required documentation and prepare reports as required
• Provides information and direction to employees in the absence of the Shelter Coordinator
• Maintain active participation in process improvement of day to day shelter operations, in collaboration with the Shelter Coordinator
• Monitor the safety of the site and the practices on a daily basis to ensure everyone’s safety, initiate crisis management protocol as required, report all safety-related concerns and issues
• Prepare monthly Risk Management Safety Inspection report
• Participate in and record minutes of staff meetings
• Collaborate with the Shelter Coordinator on program evaluation and determines positive outcomes for the site
• Assist the Shelter Coordinator in establishing relationships with the City of New Westminster, the Police and Fire Departments, other organizations, the business community, resident associations, and others in order to ensure excellence in service delivery

What We Are Looking For

Qualifications:

• A degree from a recognized university in a relevant discipline (e.g. social services, community development, public health), or
• A two-year post-secondary diploma in a relevant discipline (e.g. social services, community development, public health) and 4 years’ experience providing front-line, harm reduction services with an emphasis on mental health, addiction, homelessness and/or social services
• Experience working with vulnerable and marginalized populations, especially those dealing with mental health and substance use
• Current First Aid and CPR certification

Job Skills and Abilities:

• Intermediate knowledge of Microsoft Suite
• Highly organized with strong problem-solving and decision-making skills
• Experience developing and implementing new programs
• Experience supervising employees
• Advanced overdose recognition and response training
• Knowledge of common drugs and their effects
• Ability to work with and collaborate in a team setting to produce excellent results
• Ability to maintain a non-judgmental and non-stigmatizing approach is required
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and in stressful situations
• Willingness to participate in an ongoing on the job and other outside courses
• Ability and willingness to work with a client-centered approach
• Good verbal and written communication skills

Additional Information:

• Personal vehicle required on occasion
• Must be physically and mentally able to be on your feet for long periods, take on physical tasks and work in a fast-paced environment

Required:

• 3 Professional references from supervisors
• Criminal record check
• Valid First Aid Certificate (OFA1 or equivalent)

Why Work With Us

Join our mission-driven organization and help create positive change in people’s lives. By working with us, you’ll be part of a dedicated team that:

• Provides essential services to vulnerable populations
• Fosters personal growth and healthy decision-making
• Contributes to community well-being in the Lower Mainland