Senior Program Specialist - Shelter Specialist

SCOPE OF WORKThe Senior Program Specialist helps maintain daily operations at the Visalia Navigation Center (VNC), a low-barrier, 24/7 shelter serving individuals experiencing homelessness. This position supports a trauma-informed, person-centered, and Housing First approach, ensuring the shelter environment remains safe, respectful, and supportive.Under the guidance of the Senior Program Coordinator, the Senior Program Specialist provides on-the-floor support to shelter staff and participants, promotes consistent service delivery, and assists with coordination tasks to help ensure smooth daily operations. This is a non-supervisory role, focused on direct participant and program support.KEY RESPONSIBILITIESParticipant & Shelter Environment SupportHelp maintain a welcoming, respectful, and safe environment for all participantsPromote trauma-informed, Housing First, and harm reduction principles in all interactionsRespond to participant needs, questions, or concerns with empathy and professionalismAssist with crisis prevention and de-escalation as neededConduct walkthroughs to monitor safety, cleanliness, and policy adherenceHelp ensure the shelter remains low-barrier and accessible to individuals with complex needsProgram & Team SupportProvide 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 consistencyOffer informal coaching and modeling of best practices during routine interactionsCollaborate with the Senior Program Coordinator to identify participant or operational needsSupport communication between shifts by entering clear and timely shift notesDocumentation & CoordinationReview entries in HMIS or participant logs for completeness and accuracyHelp ensure proper documentation of incidents, service delivery, and participant progressAssist in coordinating participant-related activities and services (e.g., meal delivery, appointments)Complete basic administrative tasks such as tracking services and preparing reportsParticipate in training, meetings, or community events as requestedOther DutiesProvide occasional shift coverage during staff shortages, as assignedMaintain ethical boundaries and uphold participant confidentiality at all timesPerform other duties as assigned by the Senior Program CoordinatorSKILLS & ABILITIESStrong understanding of low-barrier shelter models, Housing First, and trauma-informed careExperience working with individuals experiencing homelessness or similar marginalized populationsAbility to remain calm, empathetic, and solution-focused in high-pressure situationsComfort with engaging individuals with mental health, substance use, or behavioral health needsBasic knowledge of shelter protocols, safety procedures, and incident responseEffective communication skills (written and verbal)Competency using Microsoft Office and participant data systems (e.g., HMIS)Ability to support staff and participants while maintaining appropriate boundariesFlexible, reliable, and team-orientedSCHEDULEWednesday – Friday: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PMSaturday – Sunday: 8:00 PM – 4:30 AMMonday & Tuesday: OffWORK CONDITIONS & ENVIRONMENTThe work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. This position is typically situated in a standard office environment, resulting in little exposure to the weather and requiring no unusual physical abilities. Must be able to sit, walk, and stand for long periods.Must have the visual ability to perform detailed work at close distances (computer screens)Must be able to bend, stoop, and reach; must be able to exert physical effort in light to moderate work involving lifting, carrying, pushing, and pullingMust be able to read, understand, and explain various forms of written materialCOMPENSATIONPay Range: $21.36 – $23.68 per hour, depending on qualifications and experience. This position is classified as Non-Exempt under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and is eligible for overtime pay in accordance with California and federal law.EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYERCSET is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, ancestry, medical condition, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.CSET complies with the California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) and will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the Fair Chance Act. Reasonable accommodations are available for applicants and employees with disabilities upon request.DISCLAIMER STATEMENTThis job description lists typical examples of work and is not intended to include every job and responsibility of this position. An employee may be required to perform other related duties not listed, provided that such duties are characteristic of that classification.