Inclement Weather Center Attendant – On Call

Inclement Weather Center Attendant – On Call

This on-call position provides operational support for Walla Walla's Inclement Weather Center. The Center Attendant ensures safe, welcoming, and compliant center operations for individuals experiencing homelessness during extreme weather conditions. Responsibilities include supervising center activities, supervising volunteers, monitoring compliance with safety protocols, light janitorial work, managing client interactions, and maintaining accurate records. The role also includes client engagement, conflict resolution, and collaboration with community partners to ensure effective service delivery.

The Center Attendant works evening shifts of an estimated 8-10 hours, scheduled between 6:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. based on need. This is an on-call, as-needed position; work hours will vary depending on weather conditions and center activation.

Overview of responsibilities includes, but is not limited to:

• Center Operations:
  • Ensure center is set up and ready to operate according to BMAC policies, safety standards, and any applicable partner agreements
  • Open and close center according to BMAC procedures; secure facility upon closing
  • Issue appropriate, respectful, and timely lights out and wake-up announcements
  • Distribute any needed supplies according to BMAC procedures
  • Sweep, mop, wipe surfaces, take out trash, and perform other cleaning tasks as required to maintain a safe and sanitary environment throughout the shift. Use personal protective equipment (PPE) and follow appropriate protocols if cleaning bodily fluids.
  • Monitor all areas, including sleeping areas and restrooms, periodically throughout the night or cleanliness, safety, and adherence to capacity limits
  • Respond to emergencies and coordinate additional resources or support to respond to issues as needed
  • Maintain a calm, respectful atmosphere for all clients
• Client Engagement & Support:
  • Complete center intake, as needed, including professionally and accurately documenting client information and orienting new client to center policies and procedures
  • Help create a welcoming and supportive environment for all clients
  • Address concerns and resolve conflicts in a professional manner
  • Apply de-escalation, crisis-intervention, and non-violent communication techniques to maintain a safe environment for clients, volunteers, and staff
  • Maintain appropriate professional boundaries with clients
  • Work individually and as a member of the center team to engage in effective de-escalation in potentially dangerous situations
  • Connect clients with additional resources and referrals when appropriate
• Administrative & Reporting:
  • Maintain accurate attendance logs and incident reports; all reports should be completed and submitted by the end of each shift.
  • Participate in team meetings and required training sessions
• Performs other related duties as assigned

Qualifications:

Education & Experience:

• High school diploma or GED
  • Associates degree in Human Services or related field preferred.
• Minimum two (2) years' work experience; experience in social services, customer service, or client-facing roles preferred
  • Experience working with individuals in crisis, including use of de-escalation or crisis-intervention techniques, strongly preferred
  • Experience working with people experiencing homelessness or at-risk of becoming homeless; and/or work experience with the public in a healthcare or community/social services setting
• Bilingual/Bicultural – English/Spanish – strongly preferred.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Strong commitment to BMAC's mission of building thriving communities and to our values: hope, integrity, compassion, collaboration and community.
• Must have a flexible schedule and be able to work on call and overnight.
• Demonstrates the necessary attitudes, knowledge and skills to deliver culturally competent services and work effectively with diverse populations, including LGBTQ and people of color, as well as individuals impacted by poverty, food insecurity, and systemic barriers.
• Demonstrated excellent customer service and communication skills.
• Belief that shelter is a human right and that allowing individuals to access an inclement weather center when they need…