The Shelter Worker is responsible to and reports directly to the Shelter Coordinator.

Function: To provide direct support to guests of the Nanaimo Unitarian Shelter within the parameters of Shelter policy.

Guest Support 

• Receives and admit guests in the evening according to defined intake procedures such as collecting the basic data for BC Housing and go over shelter rules.
• Contributes to the communications log to ensure effective service delivery by documenting actions, observations, activities which may affect guests’ accommodation and overall shelter operations.
• Assesses and assists with guests’ personal needs e.g. hygiene, nutrition, medical, and/​or emotional, as appropriate.
• Supports a harm reduction model by storing and securing alcohol, drug paraphernalia and weapons for guests when they check in.
• Communicates effectively with guests including using active listening and accepted problem-solving strategies.
• Monitors guests’ activities and provide effective intervention in crisis situations.
• Works cooperatively and effectively with other staff, volunteers, & guests
• Prepares and serves meals as required.
• Follows accepted procedures and protocols and adapts to changing conditions as they arise. 

Facility maintenance 

• Cleans all areas as assigned on a regular basis, as defined in the Shelter Procedures Manual or as requested by the Lead Hand or Shelter Director.
• Reports any necessary housekeeping duties / maintenance to the Lead Hand or Shelter Director.
• Performs other duties as assigned by the Lead Hand or Shelter Director. 

Volunteer/​Donation Support 

• Provides assistance to volunteers, as required.
• Accepts donations in an appropriate manner.
• Maintains records of donations whenever possible. 

Health and Safety 

• Works in a healthy and safe manner.
• Takes every reasonable precaution to ensure the safety and well-being of guests.
• Reports all health and safety concerns to the Lead Hand or Shelter Director. Skills and Abilities
• Demonstrated ability to use sound judgment, perform job duties with minimal supervision and problem solve as required.
• Possesses strong communication skills specifically in conflict resolution and nonviolent crisis intervention.
• Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with guests, staff, volunteers, and community agencies.
• Basic computer experience is required, and/​or willingness to undertake basic training. 

Conditions of Employment 

• Available to work scheduled shifts including evening and graveyard shifts
• Willing and available to undertake regular training and attend staff meetings.
• Must successfully complete a Vulnerable Sector Criminal Record Check and sign a confidentiality agreement.
• Certification or training in Food Safe, First Aid and Naloxone 

Qualifications

• Diploma in a related human / social service field and one (1) year recent related experience, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience

Please note that applications will be reviewed as they are received. Current Unitarian Shelter candidates will be considered before external candidates.

To apply, please send a cover letter and resume to Jody Braybrook at j_braybrook@nflabc.org.

Only those shortlisted will be contacted. Thank you for your interest.