Job Description

Position Title: Winter Shelter Program Coordinator

Position Term:

October 17, 2025 - March 31, 2026

Location:

Upper Room Mission - 3403 27 ave Vernon BC

Winter Shelter Program Coordinator

Job Summary:

The Emergency Winter Shelter Coordinator is responsible for managing and overseeing the operation of The Upper Room Mission Emergency Winter Shelter. This role involves coordinating shelter services, managing staff and volunteers, and ensuring that the shelter meets the needs of individuals experiencing homelessness during the winter months. The ideal candidate will possess strong organizational skills, experience in social services or crisis management, and a commitment to providing compassionate care that aligns with Upper Room Missions' Values, Mission, and Vision.

(https://upperroommission.ca/about-us/)

Key Responsibilities:

Shelter Operations:

Oversee daily operations of the emergency winter shelter, ensuring it is functional, clean, and welcoming. Coordinate with the Operations Manager to ensure smooth shelter operations in the evenings. Implement procedures for intake, registration, and discharge of shelter guests.

Staff and Volunteer Management:

Train and supervise shelter staff based on their job descriptions and task lists Train and onboard new volunteers. Coordinate volunteers' schedules/needs with the volunteer coordinator Schedule staff shifts to ensure adequate coverage at all times. Provide ongoing support and guidance to staff and volunteers, addressing any issues that arise. Support Shelter Staff to ensure that shelter guests receive appropriate services, including meals, showers, and referrals to other service providers through wellness team meetings. Document your meeting notes and agreed responsibilities in staff meetings, and ensure that the Operations Manager signs them. Cover shifts when needed

Safety and Compliance:

Enforce policies and procedures to maintain a safe environment for guests, staff, and volunteers. Conduct regular check-ins to ensure that staff members are following the correct procedures and policies for guests. Report any issues or incidents through our incident reporting app. Follow up on shelter support staff incident reports to ensure staff receive support during difficult times.

Administrative Duties:

Maintain accurate records of shelter operations, including guest intake and discharge information, inventory, and incident reports. This will be done through HIFIS as per BC Housing requirements*
Ensure new guests are registered in Shepherdly Prepare a monthly report for the Operations Manager and Executive Director Keep up-to-date reporting for Shelter Budget Attend weekly one-on-one meetings with the Operations Manager, participate in the weekly wellness team meeting, attend the weekly team lead meeting, and attend a monthly staff meeting.

Community Engagement:

Work closely with other service providers to coordinate beds for individuals in need at hospitals, other shelters, jails, and similar facilities. Attend meetings of community service providers, such as the COOL Team meeting and the HART meeting.

Crisis Management:

Respond effectively to emergencies and crises, including conflicts, health issues, and extreme weather conditions. Provide leadership and direction during high-stress situations to ensure the safety and well-being of all individuals involved.

Qualifications:

A Human Service Work diploma or other human service work-related education, along with relevant experience, may be considered in lieu of a degree. Proven experience in social services, crisis management, or a similar field. Strong leadership and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with diverse populations. Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion. Knowledge of homelessness issues and best practices for winter shelters is preferred. Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed. First Aid/CPR CRC Clearance with Vulnerable Sector Check Naloxone Training VAT Trained considered a benefit HIFIS Trained considered a benefit De-Escalation Training considered a benefit

Physical Requirements:

Ability to lift and carry items up to 50 pounds. Capable of standing or walking for extended periods. Ability to respond quickly to emergencies.

Salary and Benefits:

Salary: 26- 28 an hour, pending experience

Application Process:

Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter detailing their qualifications, experience, and reasons why they would like this work in this role to amyflater@vernonurm.org.

Job Types: Full-time, Seasonal
Contract length: 5 months

Pay: $26.00-$28.00 per hour

Benefits:

Casual dress On-site parking
Application question(s):

Do you have experience working with vulnerable and marginalized people groups?
Experience:

Program Coordinating : 1 year (preferred) Social Work, Human Services or related: 1 year (required)
Licence/Certification:

First Aid Certification (required)
Work Location: In person