Lead Resident Assistant

Position Summary

The Lead Residential Assistant supports the daily operations of an emergency shelter by ensuring a safe, respectful, and structured environment for residents and staff. This role provides direct supervision during assigned shifts, assists with crisis intervention, monitors shelter activities, and serves as a lead worker for Residential Assistants. The position requires strong communication, conflict resolution, documentation, and leadership skills while working with individuals and families experiencing homelessness, mental health challenges, substance use disorders, or other crises.

• Maintain a safe, clean, and supportive shelter environment
• Conduct resident check‑ins, room assignments, and orientations
• Monitor resident activities and ensure compliance with shelter rules
• Provide emotional support, active listening, and crisis de‑escalation
• Respond appropriately to emergencies, conflicts, and behavioral incidents
• Assist residents with accessing community resources and referrals

• Lead and support Residential Assistants during assigned shifts
• Provide guidance on policies, procedures, and crisis response
• Assist with staff training and onboarding
• Communicate important updates between shifts and management
• Help coordinate daily shelter operations and task assignments

• Maintain accurate shift logs, incident reports, and resident records
• Document behavioral concerns, safety issues, and service interactions
• Report emergencies, maintenance concerns, and policy violations promptly
• Ensure confidentiality of resident information

• Perform regular building rounds and security checks
• Monitor entrances, exits, and visitor access
• Enforce health, safety, and sanitation standards
• Respond to medical emergencies following shelter procedures
• Coordinate with emergency services when necessary

• Work closely with case managers, social workers, and community partners
• Participate in team meetings and trainings
• Support trauma‑informed and client‑centered care practices

• High school diploma or GED required; associate or bachelor’s degree in human services, social work, psychology, or related field preferred
• Experience working in shelters, residential programs, human services, or crisis environments preferred
• Leadership or supervisory experience preferred
• Knowledge of trauma‑informed care and crisis intervention techniques
• CPR/First Aid certification preferred

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to remain calm during crises
• Conflict resolution and de‑escalation skills
• Leadership and teamwork abilities
• Professional documentation and reporting
• Ability to work evenings, overnight shifts, weekends, and holidays as needed

VOAUPNY is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer committed to maintaining a non‑discriminatory, diverse work environment. In order to provide equal employment and advancement opportunities to all individuals, employment decisions at VOAUPNY will be based on merit, qualifications, and abilities.