Trauma-Informed Shelter Team Lead

Wikwemikong Health Centre; Wikwemikong; On-site; CAD 69,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Wikwemikong Health Centre in Ontario is seeking a Team Lead for the Emergency Low Barrier Shelter to guide daily operations and supervise Shelter Workers and Peer Support staff.

The role emphasizes trauma-informed, culturally grounded, and client-centered service, with emphasis on Anishinaabe knowledge, harm reduction, and respectful engagement with individuals experiencing homelessness.

Qualifications

• Post-secondary education in Social Services, Mental Health, Indigenous Studies, or a related field.
• 2–3 years’ experience with individuals experiencing homelessness or mental health challenges.
• Leadership or supervisory experience is an asset.
• Knowledge of low barrier shelter models and harm reduction approaches.
• Understanding of First Nation community dynamics and Anishinaabe cultural perspectives.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and conflict resolution skills.
• Assets: MHFA; ASIST or Suicide Intervention Training; First Aid/CPR.

Responsibilities

• Provide day-to-day leadership and mentorship to Shelter Workers and Peer Support staff.
• Support staff scheduling and shift coverage.
• Promote teamwork, accountability, and effective communication across shifts.
• Assist with staff orientation, onboarding, and training.
• Provide coaching and support to staff in consultation with the Emergency Shelter Coordinator.
• Collaborate with staff to model crisis response, rapport building, and conflict resolution.
• Oversee daily shelter and peer support operations.
• Ensure shelter policies, procedures, and residency agreements are applied consistently.
• Assist with client intake, discharge, and documentation.
• Monitor bed utilization and service quality.
• Participate in team meetings and drive program improvement.
• Maintain shelter inventory and coordinate purchasing within budgets.
• Ensure shelter environment remains safe, clean, and welcoming.
• Support minor facility upkeep and health and safety standards.
• Build respectful and empathetic relationships with clients.
• Provide trauma-informed supervision and support within the shelter environment.
• Use de-escalation and mediation techniques to manage conflicts and crises.
• Assist clients with goal setting, housing navigation, and referrals to services.
• Collaborate with internal teams and external service providers.
• Encourage culturally grounded supports, including Anishinaabe knowledge.
• Complete case notes and incident reports accurately and timely.
• Maintain confidentiality and professional standards.
• Provide operational updates to the Emergency Shelter Coordinator.
• Support program data collection and reporting requirements.

Skills

Leadership

Crisis intervention

Communication

Harm reduction

Trauma-informed care

Education

Post-secondary education in Social Services or related field

Job description

Wikwemikong Health Centre in Ontario is seeking a Team Lead for the Emergency Low Barrier Shelter to guide daily operations and supervise Shelter Workers and Peer Support staff.

The role emphasizes trauma-informed, culturally grounded, and client-centered service, with emphasis on Anishinaabe knowledge, harm reduction, and respectful engagement with individuals experiencing homelessness.