Shelter Support Specialist: Trauma‑Informed Care

The Salvation Army USA Western Territory; Modesto (CA); On-site; USD 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

The Salvation Army USA Western Territory is seeking a Shelter Associate to provide shelter services, keep the facility clean, and support clients under the supervision of the Shelter Operations Manager.

You will assist with guest intakes, direct guests in cleaning, monitor safety, and help de-escalate conflicts while following trauma‑informed care practices. You will also perform janitorial duties to maintain sleeping and day-room areas in orderly condition.

Qualifications

• Ability to coordinate and manage multiple duties.
• Ability to prioritize work and multitask concurrent projects.
• Excellent communication skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to de-escalate and provide trauma-informed care.
• Bilingual Spanish language skills preferred.

Responsibilities

• Provide shelter services to clients under supervision, maintaining a safe environment.
• Secure guests' personal property during intake and throughout the day.
• Direct guests in cleaning and caring for shelter areas and sleeping spaces.
• Assist with guest intakes and appointments, offering trauma-informed support.
• Monitor and assist guests in laundry and day room areas; de-escalate when necessary.
• Perform janitorial duties to clean offices, bathrooms, kitchens, and sleeping areas.
• Maintain shelter areas, day rooms, laundry rooms, storage spaces, and related facilities.
• Follow directions from Shelter Operations Manager and assist with additional duties as needed.

Skills

Communication

De-escalation

Multitasking

Spanish (bilingual)

Education

High School Diploma

Social services experience

Disadvantaged populations experience

Janitorial/maintenance experience

Job description

The Salvation Army USA Western Territory is seeking a Shelter Associate to provide shelter services, keep the facility clean, and support clients under the supervision of the Shelter Operations Manager.

You will assist with guest intakes, direct guests in cleaning, monitor safety, and help de-escalate conflicts while following trauma‑informed care practices. You will also perform janitorial duties to maintain sleeping and day-room areas in orderly condition.