Shelter Program Director: Lead Operations & Impact

Lantern Community Services Inc; New York (NY); On-site; USD 85,000 - 105,000; Full time

Job summary

Lantern Community Services is seeking a Program Director for Laurel Hall in Queens, NY. This full-time role leads shelter operations, oversees intake and social services, and ensures DHS and OTDA standards are met.

The position emphasizes outcomes, performance monitoring, and a collaborative team environment. The ideal candidate holds a relevant Master’s degree and at least five years of DHS shelter supervisory experience, with strong leadership and data skills.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Social Work (MSW), Mental Health Counseling (MHC), Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT), Public Health (MPH), or Public Administration (MPA) or a related field from an accredited institution. LMSW/LMHC/LMFT preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of DHS shelter supervisory experience.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to engage, motivate, and manage staff in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.
• Experience with electronic case management systems and the ability to utilize data to inform best practices and improve outcomes.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel required) and comfort working in databases such as CARES.

Responsibilities

• Hire, supervise, and develop a high-performing shelter team with accountability for client outcomes and compliance with Lantern and funder requirements.
• Provide leadership, direction, and ongoing support to staff to ensure timely completion of operational goals, deliverables, and performance benchmarks.
• Conduct regular one-on-one supervision, performance evaluations, and progressive discipline as needed to strengthen staff effectiveness.
• Identify training and professional development needs and coordinate onsite/offsite learning opportunities for staff growth.
• Oversee all aspects of shelter operations, including service delivery, case management, compliance, housing and employment targets, charting and medical coordination, programming, recreation, food service, security, and supply management.
• Develop and implement program activities that support residents’ stability, independent living skills, and housing readiness.
• Ensure adherence to all Lantern, DHS, OTDA, and regulatory policies, procedures, and contractual standards.
• Attend all mandatory DHS trainings and meetings to maintain program compliance and best practices.
• Facilitate case conferences to address safety concerns, gross misconduct, and non-compliance that affect the transition into permanent housing.
• Plan and coordinate social, recreational, and peer-support activities that align with program goals and performance targets.
• Facilitate regular staff meetings and ensure accurate reporting, statistical documentation, and timely submission of required data.
• Conduct internal file reviews and implement quality assurance measures to maintain high standards of client care and service delivery.
• Build and maintain relationships with community partners and leaders, including development of a Community Advisory Board.
• Implement crisis prevention and intervention strategies, respond to critical incidents, and ensure ongoing safety through an active Good Neighbor Policy.
• Ensure appropriate staffing coverage at all times, including during emergencies, severe weather, and disaster situations.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

Leadership

Crisis management

Staff supervision

Data-driven

Communication

Education

Master’s degree in Social Work / Mental Health / Public Health / Public Administration

Tools

Microsoft Office

CARES

Job description

Lantern Community Services is seeking a Program Director for Laurel Hall in Queens, NY. This full-time role leads shelter operations, oversees intake and social services, and ensures DHS and OTDA standards are met.

The position emphasizes outcomes, performance monitoring, and a collaborative team environment. The ideal candidate holds a relevant Master’s degree and at least five years of DHS shelter supervisory experience, with strong leadership and data skills.