Residential Advocate

POSITION SUMMARY

The Resident Advocate is responsible for overseeing the safety and security of the shelter facility. They are responsible for providing services including assisting clients with crisis intervention, information/referrals. Acts as the monitor for individuals accessing the shelter to ensure client safety. Acts as operator of incoming phones and routes call accordingly. Ensures the safety and security of the shelter facility and clients via monitoring of 49 camera system.

Work Schedule: Sun & Mon 8a-4p, Tues-Thurs 4p-12a

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Monitor security systems for unusual activity and provide shelter access to clients, staff, and volunteers
• Manage access cards for clients, staff, and visitors utilizing EMERGE security program
• Performing necessary shelter operations, including providing access card to client, maintaining a Daily Activity report
• Enforce residential guidelines
• Provide crisis intervention and information/referrals
• Assist staff with program issues-e.g. relaying programs messages, resource referral, etc.
• Assist in conflict resolution with the objective of modeling and encouraging positive methods of problem solving, respectful communication and self-restraint
• Ensuring the security and safety of the shelter and its residents, and handling crisis situations
• Answer incoming calls and route them accordingly
• Work closely with Residential Mentors, Case Managers and Hotline Advocates
• Provide general information to clients, staff, volunteers, and visitors
• Being sensitive to issues of domestic and sexual violence as they relate to women and children
• Handling issues related to residential security monitoring
• Be available to provide coverage on holidays and weekends in unexpected emergencies.
• Other duties may be assigned

POSITION QUALIFICATIONS

SKILLS & ABILITIES

Education:

• High School Diploma or GED required

Experience:

• One year in Customer Service experience

Computer Skills: Experience with Microsoft Office and other computer applications.

Language: Strong verbal, writing, and listening skills

Certificates & Licenses: Valid Drivers license and reliable means of transportation is required

Competencies

• Accountability - Ability to accept responsibility and account for his/her actions.
• Accuracy - Ability to perform work accurately and thoroughly.
• Detail Oriented - Ability to pay attention to the minute details of a project or task.
• Ethical - Ability to demonstrate conforming to a set of values and accepted standards.
• Honesty / Integrity - Ability to be truthful and be seen as credible in the workplace.
• Organized - Possessing the trait of being organized or following a systematic method of performing a task.
• Relationship Building - Ability to effectively build relationships with customers and co-workers.
• Reliability - The trait of being dependable and trustworthy.
• Communication, Oral - Ability to communicate effectively with others using the spoken word.
• Communication, Written - Ability to communicate in writing clearly and concisely.
• Flexibility in schedule is needed for staff coverage, client issues, trainings, etc.
• Understanding of issues related to residential programs and sensitivity to cultural diversity.
• Ability to interact professionally with employees and the public at all levels.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality of clients information as well as shelter location for the safety of clients and staff.
• Ability to interact conscientiously and consistently in a clear, non-judgmental manner
• Ability to react to crisis situations in a calm and effective manner
• Critical thinking skills are also needed to perform duties.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Although most duties can be accomplished from a seated position with occasional walking and standing for extended periods of time, the incumbent may need to squat or bend, reach outward or upward to effectively discharge job duties.
• Job incumbent must be able to lift/carry and/or push/pull up to 40lbs.
• Job incumbent must be willing to travel to off-site locations for events and meetings.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

MISSION OF THE HOUSTON AREA WOMEN'S CENTER: The Houston Area Womens Center works to end domestic and sexual violence and supports all in building safe and healthy lives through advocacy, counseling, education, shelter and support services.

The primary work location for the incumbent in this position is at the agency's shelter location.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTION STATEMENT:

The Houston Area Womens Center has reviewed this job description to ensure that essential functions are included with the duties and responsibilities. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the essential duties satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.