Trauma-Informed Shelter Operations Specialist

Community Services and Employment Training (CSET); Visalia (CA); On-site; USD 29,425 - 32,621; Full time

Job summary

Community Services and Employment Training (CSET) seeks a Senior Program Specialist to help run the Visalia Navigation Center, a 24/7 shelter for individuals experiencing homelessness. The role focuses on trauma-informed, person-centered, Housing First approaches, ensuring a safe, respectful environment and smooth daily operations.

You will work on the floor with shelter staff, monitor safety, assist with documentation in HMIS, coordinate services, and provide informal coaching.

Qualifications

• Experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness or similar populations.
• Ability to remain calm, empathetic, and solution-focused in high-pressure situations.
• Strong understanding of low-barrier shelter models and Housing First principles.
• Basic knowledge of shelter protocols and incident response.

Responsibilities

• Provide on-the-floor support to shelter staff (e.g., intake staff, case managers, monitors).
• Participate in shift check-ins and debriefs to support communication and consistency.
• Offer informal coaching and modeling of best practices during routine interactions.
• Collaborate with the Senior Program Coordinator to identify participant or operational needs.
• Support communication between shifts by entering clear and timely shift notes.

Skills

Trauma-informed care

Housing First

Low-barrier shelter

Crisis de-escalation

Empathy & professionalism

HMIS

Microsoft Office

Job description

Community Services and Employment Training (CSET) seeks a Senior Program Specialist to help run the Visalia Navigation Center, a 24/7 shelter for individuals experiencing homelessness. The role focuses on trauma-informed, person-centered, Housing First approaches, ensuring a safe, respectful environment and smooth daily operations.

You will work on the floor with shelter staff, monitor safety, assist with documentation in HMIS, coordinate services, and provide informal coaching.