Program Assistant

St. Vincent de Paul of Baltimore; Baltimore (MD); On-site; USD 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

St. Vincent de Paul of Baltimore is seeking a Program Assistant (PA) to oversee daily shelter operations and provide essential support to guests. The PA is responsible for ensuring the welfare, safety, and comfort of those seeking shelter, offering crisis intervention and resources.

This role requires effective communication to manage safety protocols and facilitate a welcoming environment, empowering guests towards stability. If you are dedicated to providing compassionate support, this position is for you.

Qualifications

• Ability to provide 24-hour awake coverage for shelter guests.
• Competence in crisis intervention and support for clients.
• Strong communication skills for managing safety and security.

Responsibilities

• Ensure daily operations of the shelter are maintained effectively.
• Supervise children and oversee guest participation in activities.
• Provide support during emergencies according to protocols.

Job description

Summary

The Program Assistant (PA) will provide essential 24-hour awake coverage and is responsible for the day‑to‑day operations of the shelter. This position is responsible for the welfare, safety and comfort of shelter guests, offering daily support. The PA provides crisis intervention to callers seeking shelter, resources or referrals. The PA works closely with clients, case managers and other essential shelter staff to ensure guests’ needs are met with dignity and care, empowering them to transition toward stability and self‑sufficiency.

Primary Duties

• Assure that daily/weekly/monthly schedules of housekeeping maintenance tasks are completed satisfactorily and in a timely manner.
• Assign volunteer tasks to guests of the Emergency Shelter and support guests to ensure tasks are carried out satisfactorily.
• Ensure the safety and security of guests, volunteers, visitors and staff by communicating expectations and conducting internal and external perimeter checks during the shift.
• Promptly and effectively respond to potential emergencies at the shelter by following agency and shelter protocols.
• Ensure children are supervised by their parents and encourage children and youth to participate in organized activities.
• Assume responsibility for observing when maintenance supplies need re‑ordering and inform supervisors accordingly.
• Support daily scheduled resident activities and events.
• Assist clients with daily activities of living, including meal distribution and cleanup, resource navigation and transportation coordination.
• Assist in maintaining accurate records by ensuring residents sign in upon entry, tracking attendance and addressing discrepancies to support efficient shelter operations.
• Mediates interpersonal conflicts between guests and ensures a peaceful and respectful atmosphere.

Secondary Duties

• Assume responsibility for storing maintenance supplies in the proper location and keeping an adequate supply available for daily use. Complete daily maintenance checklist.
• Observe where repairs or replacements may be needed and report to the immediate supervisor for direction and follow‑up.
• Ensure the cleanliness and upkeep of the emergency shelter by performing routine cleaning tasks and maintaining sanitary conditions in common areas and restrooms.
• Assist with the pick‑up of donations and food orders as needed.
• Complete incident reports when necessary.
• Assist with and attend special events held by the Center and St. Vincent de Paul as necessary.
• Support a welcoming and positive environment for volunteers and work with them effectively.
• Uphold the vision, mission and values of St. Vincent de Paul.
• Attend, and as necessary, represent St. Vincent de Paul in external meetings and events.
• Stay awake and alert during on‑duty hours.
• Perform other duties as assigned within the scope of the position.