Triage Specialist

Mel Trotter; Grand Rapids (MI); On-site; USD 38,000 - 46,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Paid time off

401(k) with employer match

Job summary

Mel Trotter Ministries seeks a Triage Specialist to welcome guests and assess needs, guiding them toward shelter service tracks and community resources. You will document records, collaborate with case managers, and offer spiritual support to individuals seeking safety and stability.

The role emphasizes trauma-informed communication, strong organization, and the ability to provide a compassionate, Christ-centered pathway for clients as they move toward long-term stability.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent related experience.
• 3+ years serving an underserved population.
• Trauma-informed communication skills.
• CPR and CPI certified (or willing to obtain).
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Resident Tracker, and HMIS.
• Strong written/verbal communication; organized, independent, detail-oriented.

Responsibilities

• Complete triage assessments and identify barriers that led to shelter entry.
• Guide guests toward appropriate shelter service tracks and community resources.
• Document and maintain accurate records in required systems.
• Provide a warm handoff and clear communication to the assigned case manager.
• Offer spiritual support, guidance, and encouragement to guests.
• Coordinate with the Triage Coordinator to ensure smooth transitions for case management.

Skills

Trauma-informed communication

CPR and CPI certified

Microsoft Office

HMIS

Written/verbal communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent related experience

Tools

Resident Tracker

HMIS

Job description

Our Shared Purpose

Mel Trotter Ministries is a faith-based, nonprofit organization committed to providing safe shelter and supportive services to individuals experiencing homelessness. We work to create a structured, respectful environment where each person is treated with dignity and care.

Our approach is rooted in compassion, consistency, and accountability, with a focus on meeting immediate needs while supporting long-term stability. Through collaboration and a shared sense of purpose, our team works each day to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those we serve.

Your Mission Here

As a Triage Specialist, you help ensure each person entering our shelter is met with clarity, dignity, and a path forward. This role exists to listen well, assess needs quickly, and connect guests to the right next step—so immediate safety can become long-term stability.

Key responsibilities:

• Complete triage assessments and identify barriers that led to shelter entry
• Guide guests toward appropriate shelter service tracks and community resources
• Document and maintain accurate records in required systems
• Provide a warm handoff and clear communication to the assigned case manager
• Offer spiritual support, guidance, and encouragement to guests

Required qualifications/skills:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent related experience preferred
• 3+ years serving an underserved population
• Trauma-informed communication skills
• CPR and CPI certified (or willing to obtain)
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Resident Tracker, and HMIS
• Strong written/verbal communication; organized, independent, detail-oriented

How Your Day Flows

You’ll start the morning by preparing for new arrivals and reviewing what information will help you serve each guest well. As guests come in, you set a steady, welcoming tone—creating space for honest conversation while keeping the process moving. Between meetings, you update notes and ensure records are complete so the next staff member has what they need. You’ll coordinate closely with the Triage Coordinator and build a smooth transition point for case management, offering a warm introduction that helps guests feel known, not processed. One day each week shifts later, but your hours remain within first shift—supporting consistent rhythms while meeting real-time needs.

Support for You

Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance; Life Insurance; Disability coverage; Flexible Spending Account; Paid Time Off; Paid Meals; Snack/Drink Room; Employee Discounts; 403(b) with employer match; Employee Assistance Program; professional development opportunities; and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact through a Christ-centered mission.