Support Specialist, Safety/Engagement 

Role: Support Specialist, Safety/Engagement 

Location: Annenberg Center

Hours: M-F 8:30am- 5pm 1st & 2nd Wednesday 8am-4:30pm

Reports to: Assistant Director of Safety and Engagement 

Summary
Using evidence-based practices such as harm reduction, housing first, and trauma-informed care, the Support Specialist Safety Engagement will act as the first point-of-contact for all immediate client needs. Monitor and oversee the Access Center lobby, south courtyard, westside patio, bathrooms, and showers to ensure compliance with program policies and procedures. Provide excellent customer service by engaging welcoming and building relationships/ rapport with all participants.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities 

Under the supervision of the Assistant Director, the Support Specialist Safety and Engagement is responsible for:
• Provide excellent customer service by engaging and welcoming all participants.
• Provide accurate information regarding available Access Center and SHWASHLOCK (shower, washers & lockers) services and hours of operation.
• Collaborate with management, staff and security in maintaining order and smooth flow of services throughout the day.
• Provide Crisis Intervention using Non-violent Crisis Intervention techniques to disruptive participants.
• Monitor and oversee the Access Center Lobby, courtyard, west side patio, bathrooms and showers to ensure compliance with program policies and procedures.
• Provide and promote resources to participants that are available in the community and surrounding areas as well as directions and transportation assistance as needed.
• Provide linkage for participants to Venice Family Clinic (VFC) for medical care onsite as well as Case Management for further needs assessment.
• Document all incidents including those involving SMPD, fire department and paramedics and submit incident reports.
• Monitor and oversee the delivery of donations of food and clothing for the Access Center; give receipts when needed.
• Perform the weekly pickup of food items from the food bank Tuesday’s at 7am as needed.
• Assist with the daily operation of the facility as needed, including general cleaning duties; cleaning and sweeping the front of Access Center and perimeter.
• Communicate with the supervisor daily to report all issues, concerns, suggestions, and successes.
• Attending all staff meetings, safety team meetings, agency meetings, training and retreats as scheduled.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or Equivalent.
• Minimum of one (1) year experience in a responsible security/customer service position
• Ability to act professionally regardless of the circumstances.
• Commitment to improving the community through empowerment and dignity.
• Familiarity with non-violent crisis intervention.
• Ability to handle difficult situations and communicate effectively.
• Current, valid California License with acceptable driving record, reliable vehicle.
• Demonstrate knowledge of issues faced by population served.
• Ability to self-motivate, learn quickly, work effectively with a wide range of constituencies and be flexible in a fast – paced environment.
• Able to work in a high tolerance Harm Reduction model with members who have multiple barriers.
• Computer literate: able to use computerized database system for program participants file management and knowledge of Microsoft Word and excel.
• Bilingual preferred, but not required.
• Able to provide cleared TB test & pass a criminal background check.
• Ability to lift to 50 lbs. to move items as needed.
• Ability to work as a team member.

Work Environment 

1. Combination of field and office environment
2. Regularly required to sit, stand, bend; occasionally lift or carry up to 35 lbs.
3. On occasion walk or drive to different local sites
4. Will necessitate working in busy and loud environments.
5. Will be exposed to elements like cold, heat, dust, noise, and odor.
6. May need to bend, stoop, twist and sit throughout the day.