SUMMARY:
The Director of Operations is responsible for the overall management, leadership, and administration of a sanctuary shelter facility that provides a safe, supportive, and welcoming environment for individuals and families in need. The Director’s primary responsibility is to ensure the effective operation of the shelter, promote the well-being and safety of residents, and coordinate services and resources that support residents in transitioning to stable housing and greater self-sufficiency.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Core duties and responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.
- Develop, implement, and evaluate shelter programs and services in alignment with the organization’s mission, values, and strategic goals.
- Create and maintain a welcoming, safe, respectful, and supportive environment for all residents.
- Coordinate and oversee daily shelter operations, including intake, assessments, case management, resident services, and residential activities.
- Recruit, hire, train, supervise, and evaluate shelter staff, including supervisors, case managers, support staff, and volunteers, as applicable.
- Provide ongoing coaching, mentoring, guidance, and performance feedback to ensure staff are equipped to provide high-quality services and support.
- Ensure residents have access to essential resources and services, including food, clothing, medical care, mental health services, employment assistance, and job training.
- Facilitate and oversee workshops, counseling, educational programs, and other activities designed to promote residents’ personal growth, stability, and empowerment.
- Build and maintain positive working relationships with local government agencies, community organizations, service providers, donors, and other stakeholders.
- Represent the organization and shelter program at public forums, community meetings, events, and other engagements, advocating for the needs of individuals and families experiencing homelessness.
- Develop and manage the shelter program budget, ensuring the effective and responsible allocation of resources.
- Monitor expenses, track financial performance, and prepare regular financial and program reports for organizational leadership and funders.
- Ensure compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, licensing requirements, organizational policies, and standards related to shelter operations and resident safety.
- Maintain accurate and confidential records, statistics, and reports regarding shelter activities, resident demographics, services provided, and program outcomes.
- Monitor program performance and identify opportunities for improvement to enhance the quality and effectiveness of shelter services.
- Contribute to the development and implementation of the organization’s long-term strategic plans, goals, and initiatives.
- Promote a culture of respect, accountability, teamwork, and trauma-informed care throughout the shelter program.
QUALIFICATIONS:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below represent the knowledge, skills, and abilities required for the position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
OTHER SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to effectively lead, manage, negotiate, collaborate, and resolve problems.
- Excellent judgment and discretion, with the ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and remain effective in a fast-paced environment.
- Compassionate, courteous, service-oriented, professional, and approachable demeanor.
- Ability to remain calm, professional, and solution-focused when responding to stressful or challenging situations.
- Strong attention to detail while maintaining a positive and professional attitude.
- Ability to work independently and productively with minimal supervision.
- Ability to recognize problems, identify potential causes, and develop appropriate solutions.
- Strong team-oriented mindset and a willingness to take initiative in a fast-paced environment.
- Ability to establish and maintain professional relationships with employees, residents, community partners, and other stakeholders.
- Strong organizational, leadership, and time-management skills.
- Commitment to treating all residents with dignity, respect, and compassion.
BENEFITS:
- 15–25 vacation days annually, based on position level
- 12 sick days annually
- 1 floating holiday annually
- 401(k) retirement plan with 3% employer match after 90 days of employment
- Medical benefits through Cigna after 30 days of employment
- Dental and vision coverage available after 90 days of employment
- Access to gym/weight room
- Access to boxing ring
- Short-term disability insurance
- Life and accidental insurance available through Aflac
- Transit Check for eligible commuting expenses
- LegalShield legal services
- Eligible for participation in Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF), subject to applicable program requirements
JOIN OUR TEAM
Are you passionate about making a meaningful impact in your community?
Join Elmcor Youth & Adult Activities as a Shelter Program Director and lead a dedicated team committed to supporting individuals and families in need. This is an opportunity to provide leadership, guidance, and oversight for a program focused on safety, stability, dignity, and empowerment.
If you are a compassionate and experienced leader who is committed to helping individuals and families achieve greater stability and independence, we encourage you to apply today and take the next step toward a career with purpose.
Elmcor Youth & Adult Activities is committed to creating a safe, respectful, and supportive environment for the individuals and families we serve.
