Shelter Associate

Rescue Mission of Trenton; Trenton (NJ); On-site; USD 20,502 - 29,200; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance

Life Insurance (100% employer-paid)

401(k) with employer match

Paid Time Off

Floating holidays

Job summary

Rescue Mission of Trenton is seeking a Shelter Associate to support frontline shelter operations, client care, and safety. You will help with intake, access to meals and services, and participating in emergency protocols.

This role requires a high school diploma or GED, a valid driver’s license, and basic computer skills. You’ll work in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment focused on dignity and stability for clients.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required or equivalent.
• Excellent communication and active listening skills.
• Ability to stay calm in challenging situations and follow procedures.

Responsibilities

• Support shelter operations, client care, and safety on shift.
• Document services, update logs, and complete intake records.
• Assist with emergency drills, evacuations, and safety protocols.
• Transport or accompany clients to appointments as needed.
• Maintain clean, safe common areas and infection prevention steps.

Skills

Active listening

Critical thinking

Communication

Excel

HMIS

Shelter sign-in systems

Logbooks

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Excel

HMIS

Job description

Support Safety. Provide Stability. Make a Daily Impact.

Position Overview

Under the supervision of the Emergency Shelter Operations Manager, the Shelter Associate plays a critical frontline role in maintaining a safe, structured, and supportive environment for individuals experiencing homelessness. This position helps deliver essential shelter services, supports day-to-day operations, and ensures safety and dignity for all clients throughout each shift. Every day, you contribute to stability, compassion, and effective emergency response in a fast-paced, mission-driven setting.

What You’ll Do

You’ll be hands‑on in supporting shelter operations, client care, and safety.

• Client Support & Engagement
  • Welcome clients and assist with shelter intake and daily sign‑in procedures
  • Support access to essential services including meals, showers, hygiene kits, and clothing
  • Encourage participation in shelter programs, outreach services, and case management
  • Observe client activity and provide respectful redirection when needed
  • Help implement emergency protocols including Code Blue and Code Red Heat responses
• Documentation & Coordination
  • Maintain timely and accurate documentation of services provided
  • Update daily logs, reports, and shelter communication tools
  • Review intake records to ensure completeness and compliance with established procedures
• Safety & Facility Operations
  • Conduct regular walkthroughs to ensure a clean, safe, and orderly environment
  • Assist with emergency drills and evacuations as needed
  • Report facility or equipment issues to appropriate staff promptly
• Additional Responsibilities
  • Transport or accompany clients to appointments as requested
  • Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and ongoing professional development
  • Perform other duties as assigned to support shelter operations
• Create a Clean and Welcoming Space
  • Clean and maintain common areas, bathrooms, kitchen spaces, and shared environments
  • Disinfect high‑touch surfaces and assist with infection prevention efforts
  • Collect and dispose of waste and recycling according to safety guidelines
  • Perform light maintenance tasks and report larger facility concerns
  • Monitor cleaning supply inventory and communicate replenishment needs
  • Assist with laundry collection and delivery
  • Support efforts to ensure client rooms remain clean, healthy, and compliant with shelter standards

What We’re Looking For

• We’re seeking dependable, compassionate team members who can stay grounded in dynamic environments.
• High school diploma or GED preferred
• Strong active listening, critical thinking, and communication skills
• Ability to remain calm, professional, and solution‑focused in challenging situations
• Valid driver’s license required
• Basic computer proficiency, including Excel, HMIS, shelter sign‑in systems, and logbooks

Schedule

Openings available on 2nd and 3rd shifts:

• 3:00 PM – 11:00 PM
• 11:00 PM – 7:00 AM

Pay

Pay: $18.04 per hour

Additional $1.00 per hour worked paid as a quarterly bonus

Why Work With Us

• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance starting the first month after hire
• 100% Employer‑Paid Life Insurance
• 401(k) with 2% employer contribution and up to 4% employer match
• Immediate Paid Time Off, plus additional accrued Sick Time
• 12 Floating Holidays (available after 90 days)

Equal Opportunity Employer

The Rescue Mission of Trenton is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, veteran status, pregnancy, genetic information, or any other protected status under applicable law. We are committed to maintaining a respectful, inclusive, and harassment‑free workplace.