Resident Assistant

The Salvation Army; Elizabeth (NJ); On-site; USD 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading organization is seeking a Resident Assistant to manage day-to-day operations of the shelter, including intake procedures, meal preparation, and security monitoring. This role requires strong organizational and interpersonal skills, with a commitment to supporting vulnerable populations. Candidates should have experience in social services and be adaptable to dynamic situations.

Qualifications

• 1 year of experience in homeless shelters or with vulnerable populations.
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing.
• Experience in social services or related field preferred.

Responsibilities

• Conduct intake procedures and manage shelter operations.
• Prepare meals and maintain cleanliness in dining areas.
• Monitor security and assist with clients' exit plans.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Organizational skills

Attention to detail

Computer skills

Education

Associate degree in Social Services

Job description

Overview

Under the supervision of the Shelter Director and in partnership with the Lead Case Manager, the ResidentAssistant conducts the day-to-day activities and functions of the shelter residence program.

Responsibilities

The duties listed below are the primary duties of this position but are not all the required duties. The Salvation Army reserves the right to change, reduce or expand the duties of this position at any time. Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this role.

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Intake• Complete Intake packet with all new residents.• Protect private data according to the agency's privacy and confidentiality guidelines.• Review Shelter Bill of Rights and provide residents with a Resident Handbook to review before theirfirst meeting with a Case Manager.• Assign beds, and issue personal hygiene items, towels, and bedsheets.• Perform the Resident Clothing Intake Procedure with every resident.

Daily Responsibilities

• Prepare a continental breakfast each morning, assist with dinner service, and oversee the diningroom area for cleanliness.• Distribute towels and linens (when required) and ensure that excess towels and linens are collectedand washed at the end of the shift.• Ensure daily shelter documentation is complete and accurate: including bed/room assignments, datacollection/input, daily logbook entries.• Uphold shelter policy in a consistent, fair, and equitable manner with a positive and respectfuldemeanor.• Monitor the security of the entire facility by reviewing the surveillance system, conducting floor roundsevery half hour, managing guest behavior and contacting emergency services when appropriate.• Demonstrate appropriate professional boundaries with clients and colleagues.• Maintain consistent and professional communication both written and oral with the Shelter Director.

Miscellaneous• Assist Case Manager(s) with clients’ exit plan goals, as needed.• Conduct and complete drug tests as needed or assigned by Shelter Director and/or Case Manager.• Conduct fire drills as stated by New Jersey State requirements, under the guidance of the ShelterDirector.• Attend regularly scheduled staff meetings, training, and supervisory one-on-one meetings.

Qualifications

Requirements

• 1 year of related experience working in a homeless shelter, group home, or with vulnerable populations.• Must be able to work rotating shifts, holidays, and alternating hours depending upon need.• Strong computer skills, attention to detail, and proven organizational skills.• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work as part of a team.• Ability to communicate both verbally and in writing in a manner that is clear, effective, and containsadequate detail.• Ability to adapt to multiple situations quickly.

Desired Qualifications• Associate degree in Social Services or related field preferred, or at least 1-2 years of experienceworking in social services, with those experiencing homelessness, or other vulnerable populations.• Experience using HMIS or related database a plus.• Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred.• Must understand and support the mission of The Salvation Army.