Social Services Assistant - Albuquerque Opportunity Center

Job Title: Social Services Assistant (SSA) I

Reports to: Program Manager

Status: Non-exempt

Grade: A02

Salary: Dependent on Qualifications

Position Summary:

The Social Services Assistant I coordinates social service activities, directly assisting and supporting Heading Home shelter residents with their day-to-day needs.  

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

• Supports the shelter team in the coordination of shelter services.

• Assists in and coordinates transportation if needed.  

• Assists in directing new residents to their assigned spaces.

• Provides shelter residents with an orientation of the shelter facility. 

• Maintains good rapport with residents to facilitate a safe and comfortable environment.

• Maintains accurate resident counts and files documentation.

• Communicates directly with supervisor, security personnel, and other staff.

• Performs once-a-day daily check-ins with residents.

• Monitors all spaces and conducts daily room and bed checks.

• Arrange room or dorm cleaning between clients and staff.

• Arranges linen exchange between clients and staff.

• Liaison for food delivery.

• Enforces resident policies and procedures.

• All other duties as assigned. 

Qualifications:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must have excellent communication and interpersonal skills, think strategically, and act quickly. They must also possess the ability to work well with others across a broad spectrum of situations. Prior experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness and mental illness is preferred.

The requirements listed represent the knowledge, skills, and abilities required. 

• Minimum: High School Diploma or GED.

• Practical experience working with people in customer service or a related field is required. 

• A minimum of one (1) year of experience working with the unhoused population is preferred.

• Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing in English.

• De-escalation, trauma-informed care, or similar training is highly desired.

• Must be able to maintain composure under difficult situations.

• Strong attention to detail.

• Strong organizational and multi-tasking ability.

• Ability to meet deadlines and prioritize competing demands.

• Data entry and file management experience.

• Knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.

• Maintain a clean and organized workspace.

• Reliable and a team player.

Other Requirements:

• Valid Driver’s License and reliable transportation.

• Ability to navigate stairs, ladders, ramps, and uneven terrain.

• Must become CPR/First Aid trained within 90 days of hire.

The responsibility of all Heading Home employees includes the following:

• Always represent and promote Heading Home positively and professionally.

• Maintain good attendance and punctuality.

• Attend all staff and agency meetings as required.