Client Support Specialist (PT - Oconee)

Position Summary

The Client Support Specialist (CSS) is a key member of the Shelter Operations and Client Support Team, responsible for providing trauma-informed support and promoting structure and community living within the shelter environment. CSS staff carry a shelter support caseload and offer consistent engagement, structure reminders, and behavioral support to clients as they navigate communal spaces. CSS staff play a vital role in reinforcing shelter expectations, building rapport with clients, documenting support interactions, and identifying patterns that may require additional attention or referral. The CSS works collaboratively with Shelter Operations team members and leadership to maintain an emotionally safe, structured, and welcoming space for all clients.

This is a part-time, hourly, non-exempt position 

Reports to: Lead Client Support Specialist

Key Responsibilities

Client Support & Community Living Engagement

Carry a caseload of assigned clients and provide consistent, trauma-informed support focused on shelter engagement, community living expectations, and emotional well-being

Offer regular check-ins, structure reminders, and behavioral guidance related to shared space use, boundaries, and routines

Support clients in adjusting to the shelter environment through emotional presence, structure reinforcement, and clear communication

Refer clients to the Advocacy Team for needs related to advocacy services

Document all support interactions accurately and in a timely manner

Observe and report emerging client patterns related to communal living, safety, or emotional regulation

Maintain awareness of assigned clients' shelter experience and provide timely follow-up on behavioral concerns, emotional needs, or program engagement

Maintains professional boundaries with clients while offering respectful, nonjudgmental support in daily shelter routines

Collaborate with supervisors to adjust support strategies when ongoing concerns arise

Respond calmly to moments of emotional distress, using de-escalation techniques when appropriate and promptly notifying leadership of safety concerns

Process new arrivals during assigned shifts by completing initial documentation, reviewing expectations, and assisting with orientation

Participate in room preparation and initial walkthroughs to ensure space readiness for each client

Provide welcoming, trauma-informed introductions to shelter routines and shared living expectations

Documentation & Communication

Document all relevant client interactions, incidents, or shelter concerns using agency-approved systems

Report emerging client patterns, concerns, or follow-up needs to Shelter Operations leadership

Respond to helpline calls in accordance with agency procedures and trauma-informed practices

Follow up on assigned tasks and ensure documentation is completed accurately and on time

Demonstrates reliability by completing assigned tasks within expected timeframes and notifying the supervisor of any delays or barriers

Shelter Operations Support

Conduct routine shelter walk-throughs to maintain a consistent staff presence, support respectful use of shared spaces, and observe for any safety, emotional, or environmental concerns that may need follow-up

Assist with room setup, restocking of staff/client supplies, and assigned cleaning checks

Assign and verify completion of client household chores based on shift responsibilities and communal living expectations

Monitor doors and gates during assigned shifts to help ensure safety and secure access

Participate in client engagement activities such as Fun Nights, shelter celebrations, and shelter decoration projects

Respond to and document helpline calls in accordance with agency procedures

Dispense over the counter (OTC) medications and personal care items as requested

Team Collaboration

Collaborate with Shelter Operations and Client Support team members to ensure consistent support and smooth shelter flow

Participate in team check-ins, shelter walk-throughs, trainings, and shift communication

Assist with shadow training of new team members to support consistent onboarding and modeling of expectations

Maintain regular communication with supervisors to report concerns, receive guidance, and ensure alignment with shelter standards

Adjusts to changes in client needs, shift demands, or shelter flow while maintaining consistency in role expectations

Additional Responsibilities

Attends required staff meetings, supervision sessions, and trainings to stay informed of program updates and expectations

Actively participates in onboarding, ongoing training, and professional development to strengthen trauma-informed practices and shelter operations knowledge

Enthusiastically represents and supports the mission, vision of Safe Harbor in all interactions with clients, teammates, and community partners

Completes other duties as assigned by the supervisor and/or agency leadership

Assists with any additional responsibilities necessary to support a safe, structured, and supportive shelter environment

Qualifications

1–2 years of experience in shelter, residential, or communal living environments preferred

Familiarity with trauma-informed care and structured support approaches

Strong communication, documentation, and follow-through skills

Computer literacy required, including the ability to navigate client databases and use Microsoft Office products (Outlook, Word, Excel, Teams) for documentation and internal communication

High school diploma or GED required

Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

Based in a residential shelter setting with active client engagement

Requires walking, standing, climbing stairs and light lifting, with a focus on direct support and shared space upkeep

Must maintain emotional composure and professionalism in high-stress or crisis situations

Follows all safety, documentation policies and procedures

Expected to uphold strict confidentiality in all shelter-related documentation, communication, and interactions both onsite and externally