Speranza Inn Front Desk Coordinator - Per Diem

Downstreet; Barre (VT); Hybrid; USD 25,000 - 36,000; Part time

Job summary

Downstreet Housing and Community Development seeks a per diem Front Desk Coordinator for Speranza Inn, offering welcoming service to guests and navigating stay resources. You will work within a trauma-informed, strengths-based framework to help guests access housing, services, and supports necessary for stability.

Responsibilities include reception duties, intake processing, coordinating with agencies, and maintaining a safe, organized front desk and related areas.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; coursework in social work preferred.
• Experience in customer service, hospitality, or social services, especially homelessness/trauma work.
• Knowledge of trauma-informed care principles and strengths-based practices.
• Ability to engage professionally with diverse backgrounds.
• Strong verbal and written communication; de-escalation skills.
• Basic computer skills for data entry including Microsoft Office and hotel systems.

Responsibilities

• Greet and assist guests, check-in, and coordinate referrals with state/local agencies.
• Provide information about services, policies, and community resources.
• Ensure intake forms are completed accurately and records maintained.
• Maintain front desk, laundry and kitchen areas clean and stocked; respond to guest requests.
• Collaborate with Speranza staff, case managers, and housing support staff to coordinate services.
• Report incidents and ensure safety and security of the hotel environment.

Skills

Customer service

Communication skills

Trauma-informed care

De-escalation

Data entry

Education

High school diploma

Coursework in social work

Tools

Microsoft Office

Hotel management systems

Job description

Thank you for your interest in joining our team!

We are looking for a per diem Front Desk Coordinator to join our team!

Downstreet Housing and Community Development is a private, mission-driven, not-for-profit organization dedicated to delivering social justice through the power of affordable housing. We pride ourselves on connecting people to the resources they need to thrive and creating equitable opportunities for everyone in Central Vermont to access safe, healthy homes. Through our work, we strengthen the health and future of our local communities.

We are seeking compassionate and dedicated Per Diem Front Desk Staff to join our team at the Speranza Inn, a facility providing safe and supportive housing for individuals experiencing homelessness. As part of our trauma-informed, strengths-based approach, you will be responsible for providing welcoming and respectful service to all guests, while maintaining a safe and supportive environment. Your role will focus on assisting individuals in navigating their stay and connecting them with available services, empowering them to regain stability and independence.

Key Responsibilities

Guest Reception:

• Coordinate with State and local agencies regarding referrals, notifications of availability, and discharges.
• Greet and check in individuals in a friendly, respectful, and welcoming manner.
• Provide information regarding available services, hotel policies, and community resources.
• Assist guests with completing intake forms, ensuring all documentation is processed accurately.

Trauma-Informed Care:

• Recognize and respond appropriately to issues as they arise, creating a calm and supportive environment for guests.
• Approach each guest with empathy and understanding, respecting their dignity and individual needs.
• Maintain confidentiality and adhere to privacy regulations in all interactions.

Strengths-Based Support:

• Focus on the strengths and goals of each guest, providing guidance and encouragement to foster self-sufficiency.
• Collaborate with Speranza staff, local agencies, and case managers to ensure coordination of care.
• Monitor guest needs and refer them to appropriate resources including the onsite Homeless Services Case Manager.

Facility Management:

• Ensure the front desk, laundry, and kitchen area is clean and organized and stocked with necessary supplies.
• Respond to guest requests promptly and professionally, ensuring safety and comfort.
• Monitor the safety and security of the hotel environment, reporting any incidents or concerns to the appropriate entity including the Director.

Administrative Duties:

• Maintain accurate records of guest stays, service referrals, and incident reports.
• Handle check-ins and check-outs in accordance with hotel policies.
• Work closely with other team members, including case managers, maintenance, security, and housing support staff, to provide coordinated services.
• Participate in regular team meetings, offering insights into guest needs and contributing to the development of service improvement strategies.

Experience and Education

• High school diploma or equivalent required. A coursework in social work, psychology, or a related field is preferred.
• Previous experience in a customer service, hospitality, or social services setting, especially in homelessness or trauma-related work, is highly desirable.
• Knowledge of, or willingness to learn, trauma-informed care principles and strengths-based practices.
• Ability to engage professionally with individuals from diverse backgrounds, demonstrating sensitivity to various cultural, social, and personal challenges.
• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to de-escalate tense situations and maintain professionalism.
• Basic computer skills for data entry including Microsoft Office Suite, record-keeping, and hotel management systems.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to remain standing for extended periods, ability to climb stairs, and lift up to 25 lbs.

Compensation

Wage: $22/hour

Application Instructions

Downstreet is strongest when we have a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. We know that the more inclusive we are, the better our work will be. We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants, regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, national origin, marital status, disability, or Veteran status are encouraged to apply.