Full-Time Shelter Care Specialist

Centerboard Inc; Salem (MA); On-site; USD 24,000 - 34,000; Full time

Job summary

Centerboard Inc. is seeking Direct Care Staff in Salem, MA to provide on-site support for EA Housing Program residents. The role requires shift coverage, maintains safe shelter operations, and responsive communication with staff and families.

Responsibilities include rounds, incident reporting, and assisting with shelter placement, while following safety procedures and program guidelines. A high school diploma and strong communication skills are essential.

Qualifications

• Requires high school diploma/GED or some college (preferred).
• Two years’ experience in housing services, residential programs or public contact.
• Must possess strong communication, problem solving and organizational skills.
• Valid driver’s license with acceptable driving record preferred.
• Able to relate to people; written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Maintain the cleanliness of common areas.
• Remain awake, alert, and available to respond throughout the shift, and avoid behavior that gives the appearance of sleeping.
• Complete hourly indoor and outdoor rounds during each shift.
• Document shift information in the Communication Log in MY EVOLV.
• Complete shift information and any incident reports for each shift.
• Report maintenance requests and contact maintenance as required.
• Receive new families arriving for shelter placement as needed.
• Ensure families keep common areas and hallways free from all personal belongings.
• Maintain keys for units in the locked key box.
• Ensure visiting guidelines are adhered to.
• Monitor entry and exit points; ensure sign-in/out procedures and safety protocols are followed.
• De-escalate minor conflicts or disagreements and report significant incidents.
• Monitor the security system and report issues.
• Communicate program and shift information through email, phone, and written means.
• Clean units once families exit the shelter.
• Assess maintenance issues after hours and contact landlord or maintenance team.
• Verify laundry lockbox cash and report discrepancies.
• Respond to emergencies per safety procedures and assist with evacuation drills.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Skills

Strong communication

Problem solving

Organizational skills

Interpersonal skills

Education

High school diploma or GED

Some college (preferred)

Tools

Microsoft Outlook

Word

Excel

Job description

Centerboard Inc. is seeking Direct Care Staff in Salem, MA to provide on-site support for EA Housing Program residents. The role requires shift coverage, maintains safe shelter operations, and responsive communication with staff and families.

Responsibilities include rounds, incident reporting, and assisting with shelter placement, while following safety procedures and program guidelines. A high school diploma and strong communication skills are essential.