Job Description

REPORTS TO

: Program Director

We are currently hiring multiple Shelter Support Workers to cover a variety of shifts, including full time and part time day and evening shifts throughout the week.

Positions are expected to be filled in November 2025 (exact date to be confirmed). Applicants must be available for mandatory employment training in early November.

JOB FUNCTION

: Reporting to the Program Director (or delegate), the Shelter Support Worker is responsible for supporting the daily operations of Kirsten's Place and assisting the Caseworker in providing trauma-informed, client-centered care. This role plays a key part in creating a safe, calm, and welcoming environment for individuals and their children fleeing domestic violence.

Kirsten's Place is in Olds, Alberta and provides temporary shelter for individuals and their children who are fleeing domestic violence. We offer support for adults, and their children, through our trauma informed case management that focuses on individualized goals, emotional support, safety planning, resource navigation and advocacy to assist our clients and their children as they build a new life free from violence.

How to Apply

Please submit both your resume and cover letter In your cover letter, clearly state whether you are seeking full time shifts during the week, or part time shifts over the weekend, or if you are open to any available position. Applicants must also include three professional references.

Any submissions lacking these details may not be shortlisted due to incomplete information

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES

Client Interaction & Emotional Support

Welcome and orient new residents, helping them feel informed, comfortable, and safe during their stay. Engage with clients and their children in a respectful and trauma-informed manner, offering emotional support and modeling healthy communication and boundaries. Assist clients with implementing house rules and shelter protocols and communal living expectations in collaboration with the Caseworker. Provide informal supervision and support to children during appointments or daily routines through play, reading, or calming activities. Maintain a clean and inviting play area and support parents in engaging with their children positively. Create opportunities for clients, including children and youth, to connect with one another through inclusive, age-appropriate activities that foster a sense of community.

Team Collaboration & Shelter Coordination

Work closely with the Caseworker and other shelter staff to ensure coordinated and consistent support for all clients. Participate in team meetings, supervision, and training sessions to support shelter planning, reflective practice, and professional development. Communicate effectively with all team members, maintain confidentiality, and adhere to MVESS's ethical guidelines and operational policies. Recognize and support the role of volunteers, students, and community partners in fulfilling the mission of the shelter. Ensure accurate and timely documentation of relevant interactions, incidents, and shelter operations, in accordance with organizational policies.

Shelter Environment & Household Operations

Maintain a clean, safe, and welcoming environment for all shelter residents by supporting daily operations such as meal preparation, household cleaning, laundry, and tidying of communal areas. Support the implementation of the monthly meal plan, including arranging for groceries, preparing meals, and ensuring safe food handling practices are followed. Assist with the organization and distribution of donations, and ensure rooms are reset and prepared for incoming clients. Monitor shelter conditions and report any safety concerns or maintenance needs to the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Representative or Program Director. Collaborate with community volunteers and supporters to assist with shelter upkeep and maintenance tasks.

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum of 2 years of experience in social services, crisis intervention, or a related field (experience working with survivors of domestic violence is preferred). Understanding of trauma-informed care, crisis de-escalation techniques Clear Police Intervention Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Check, and Child Intervention Check Valid First Aid and CPR certification or willingness to obtain. Ability to work effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds and experiences. Strong communication, problem-solving, and boundary-setting skills. Ability to work flexible shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays. Ability to work in a team and with minimal supervision Demonstrated ability to think critically, problem solve and de-escalate situations in a fast-paced environment that requires prioritization of tasks. The role involves working in a domestic violence crisis shelter using a trauma-informed, client-centered approach. You will witness or respond to real-life incidents and events in real-time and require emotional resilience due to frequent exposure to trauma and crisis.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

Competitive salary and benefit package, including paid time off. Positive work environment where people can see the impact of the individuals we serve. Training and career development opportunities.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Requires occasional lifting and manual labor. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment. Commitment to self-care and resilience-building practices to manage the emotional demands of the role. MVESS is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status.
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time

Expected hours: 16 - 40 per week

Benefits:

On-site parking
Ability to commute/relocate:

Olds, AB T4H 1G3: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (preferred)
Work Location: In person