Shelter Direct Care

Summary

Catholic Charities of Acadiana is seeking Shelter Direct Care staff to serve on the front lines of our emergency shelter. These team members are essential in ensuring a safe clean and compassionate environment for our guests. Shelter Direct Care staff provide for basic needs maintain order and safety and extend dignity and empathy to individuals experiencing homelessness or crisis. At Catholic Charities of Acadiana we live our mission of caring for the sacred gift of all human life especially the most vulnerable. Our work is guided by our core values-Dignity of the Human Person Solidarity Boundless Mercy Joyful Tenacity Humility and Justice. As a Shelter Direct Care staff member you will directly impact the lives of individuals in crisis by providing not only safety and stability but also compassion and dignity.

Key Responsibilities

• Ensure Guest Safety
  • Monitor the shelter environment through observation and camera systems.
  • Conduct security screenings (metal detector wand and bag checks) as required.
  • Respond appropriately to incidents or emergencies reporting to the Shelter Direct Care Lead I and Shelter Operations Supervisor.
  • Complete incident reports and notify supervisors immediately of critical events.
• Meet Basic Needs
  • Assist with distribution of food hygiene items bedding and clothing.
  • Support organized guest check-in and check-out procedures.
• Serve with Empathy and Dignity
  • Engage guests respectfully offering emotional support and active listening.
  • Utilize trauma-informed and non-judgmental approaches in all interactions.
  • De-escalate tense situations when needed with professionalism and care.
• Maintain Cleanliness & Sanitation
  • Keep shelter areas-including bathrooms sleeping spaces common rooms and dining areas-clean orderly and safe.
  • Perform cleaning tasks throughout the shift and encourage guest cooperation.
  • Report maintenance needs and follow organizational standards for hygiene and safety.
• Support Shelter Operations
  • Carry out shelter routines and enforce rules respectfully under the direction of the Shelter Direct Care Lead I.
  • Document notable guest interactions incidents or needs.
• Promote Stability
  • Model patience compassion and professionalism in all interactions.
  • Help create an environment of calm and stability for guests in crisis.

Job Qualifications

• Experience working or volunteering in a shelter or social service setting preferred.
• Strong interpersonal and conflict resolution skills.
• Demonstrated ability to remain calm in high-stress or emergency situations.
• Commitment to treating all individuals with empathy dignity and without bias or judgment.
• Willingness to perform cleaning and support tasks as needed.
• Ability to work flexible hours including evenings weekends and holidays.

Job Specifications

• Medium: Exerting 20 to 50 pounds of force occasionally and/or 10 to 25 pounds of force frequently and/or greater than negligible up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects. 100% of the time.
• Job Type: Full-time
• Benefits:
  • Dental insurance
  • Flexible spending account
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Retirement plan
  • Vision insurance