Temp Resident Advocate -Site 1 (OWL) P/T

Paycom; San Jose (CA); On-site; USD 39,000 - 41,000; Part time

Job summary

HomeFirst seeks a Temporary Resident Advocate at Site 1 OWL Washington Community Center, San Jose, to support program participants and guests on a swing shift. You will conduct safety checks, assist with HMIS intake, help develop personalized housing plans, and respond to crises using de-escalation techniques.

This non-exempt, part-time role runs through April 2027 and pays $28.95 per hour. The position emphasizes trauma-informed care, confidentiality, and collaboration with staff to ensure

Qualifications

• AA degree or equivalent; two years or more in social services is acceptable.
• Experience working with unhoused populations preferred.
• Strong communication, organization, and data-entry skills.

Responsibilities

• Provide care, safety, and supervision for participants and guests.
• Conduct safety checks and enforce site rules.
• Perform HMIS check-ins and document services within 3 business days.
• Develop and reassess individualized housing plans with participants.
• Respond to crises using de-escalation and trauma-informed approaches.

Skills

Client service

Housing plans

De-escalation

Crisis intervention

Communication skills

Multitasking

Confidentiality

Data entry

Education

AA degree or 2 years higher education

Experience in social services

Tools

HMIS

Microsoft Office

Job description

Position: Temporary Resident Advocate-(OWL)Location: Site 1 OWL (Washington Community Center, San Jose)Reports to: Program ManagerEmployment Type: Temporary, Part Time, Non-ExemptShift: SwingCompensation: $28.95 HourlyThis is a temporary benefited role for the term of the program from current month thru April 2027. These dates are subject to a slight change in the dates due to program needs.ABOUT HOMEFIRSTEstablished in 1980, HomeFirst is a nonprofit organization passionately working to end homelessness. We serve the Bay Area community through low-barrier programming and systems leadership – meeting each person where they are by offering support and resources that address immediate and long-term housing needs. With nearly 45 years of experience, we view housing as a fundamental human right and understand that solving homelessness requires a collaborative effort.OUR VALUESKindness: We act with empathy toward others.Passion: We ignite change to fulfill our mission.Excellence: We deliver exceptional service to our communities.POSITION OVERVIEWThe Resident Advocate is responsible for the overall day-to-day operation on site and responds to program participants needs on an as needed basis. They facilitate the flow of on-site amenities like food services and ensuring each participant’s essential needs are met. They also ensure participant, staff and guest safety through regular check-ins and monitoring of the site grounds and sleeping areas.REPORTING RELATIONSHIPSThe position reports to the Program Manager.PRIMARY RESPONSIBILTIESDirect Client Service (90%)Responsible for the care, safety and supervision of program participants and guestsPerform basic safety and security checks for participantsImplement and enforce HomeFirst guidelines and site rulesWelcome all agency guests to the facility, including program participants, volunteers, staff, and community membersCheck guests into and out of the facility using the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS)Document all notes of services provided into HMIS within 3 business daysComplete intake of potential participants including thorough and accurate VI-SPDAT assessmentsWork with participants to execute their personalized housing planProvide direct guest support with developing, updating, and reassessing housing plansMake timely and appropriate decisions in emergency situations, including: awareness of the need for safety of all participants involved, mandated reporting, and contacting appropriate staff/responding agenciesRespond to guest crises using de-escalation and Mental Health First Aid techniques as applicableAdhere to HomeFirst's service delivery practices, including Trauma Informed Care, client- centered practice, and Crisis Prevention Intervention modelComplete and submit Incident Reports, Behavioral Contracts, and other forms as neededProvide information, referrals, housing resources, and program support to program participantsDistribute clothing, linens, toiletries, and any other items supplied by the programRestock program supplies and submit supply order request in a timely mannerProvide general site set up, clean-up, reporting any maintenance or janitorial needs to the Shift Supervisor or Shelter Manager in a timely mannerConduct shelter floor, facility, and perimeter checksAssist with set-up and break-down daily and for any special events or activitiesComplete and file all paperwork in a timely mannerMaintain professional conduct, attitude and appearanceCommunicate to and delegate tasks to next shiftMaintain confidentiality regarding clients, personnel and other internal agency affairsConduct business according with employee handbook, exercising judgement and serving the best interests of the agency and communityMaintain compliance with agency/ site policies and proceduresProvide socialization skills- empathetic listening, problem solving, information and referral, mediation, crisis interventionCommit to treat each guest with respect and dignityDemonstrate conflict resolution skillsGeneral (10%)Represent HomeFirst and the program appropriately to volunteers, donors, outside agencies and the publicAssist with office-related tasks as neededAttend all mandatory meetings, workshops, and trainingsPerform other general duties as assignedSkills, Abilities, and Knowledge:Proven ability to develop client service or housing plansAbility to work with people of diverse social backgrounds, strong interpersonal skillsStrong written and oral communication skillsWorking knowledge of Microsoft applications, email, and internet, and able to learn data entry using web-based database systemsHigh level of flexibility and ability to prioritize appropriatelyWork effectively within a teamStrong sense of accountabilityStrong customer service skillsAbility to multitask efficientlyAdvocacy and case management skillsKnowledge of local social service resources/providersEffective problem-solving skillsDemonstrate strong leadership skillsExcellent organizational skills and ability to complete tasksReliable; excellent punctuality and attendance for scheduled work shiftsAbility to work flexible hours, especially nights, weekends and overnights. Must be available by telephone, on-call, and as needed during employee’s scheduled availabilityAble to take initiative and work independently and productively with minimal supervisionAbility to meet deadlines and complete multiple tasks in a timely mannerAbility to maintain professional conduct, attitude, and appearance at all timesMust be able to work under pressure, handle stressful situations, and maintain flexibilityOther:Able to perform sedentary work;Able to lift up to 30 lbs. on occasion;Ability to use keyboard and read computer screens for extended periods;Able to stand/sit for extended periods, kneel, reach and bend related to the completion of duties;BENEFITSThis role is non benefited. All temporary staff will accrue CA Paid Sick Leave of 1 hours for every 30 hours worked.ORGANIZATIONAL EQUITY STATEMENTAt HomeFirst, diversity, equity, and inclusion guide our services, workplace, and decisions. Recognizing housing as a social justice issue, we prioritize equitable practices, honor lived experiences and uphold dignity for all. By fostering belonging, accountability, and continuous improvement, we embed DEI values in our processes, recruitment, and leadership, striving for excellence at every level.HomeFirst is proud to be an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer and considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by law. We also consider qualified applicants with criminal histories consistent with applicable federal, state, and local law. Additionally, HomeFirst participates in the E-Verify program, as required by law.HomeFirst is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in our job application process. If you need assistance or accommodation due to a disability, please let your recruiter know.QUALIFICATIONS (YOU HAVE)AA degree (or equivalent of 2 years of higher education) or two years of field experience in social servicesLived experience OR understanding of and sensitivity to the needs of the unhoused populationFluent in Microsoft Office Suite