Position Summary
The Direct Care Specialist serves as a frontline team member responsible for helping create a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment for clients at The Kearney Center. This role provides direct support to clients by assisting with daily needs, answering questions, connecting clients to services, maintaining shelter operations, and promoting a culture of dignity, accountability, and respect. Direct Care Specialists play a critical role in helping clients navigate shelter services while utilizing trauma-informed care, emotional regulation, and de-escalation techniques to support positive client experiences.
This position serves as a key point of contact for clients and helps ensure daily shelter operations remain safe, organized, and responsive. Essential Responsibilities Client Support & Engagement Serve as a primary point of contact for clients throughout assigned shifts. Assist clients with questions, requests, appointments, and daily shelter navigation. Build professional and respectful relationships with clients while maintaining appropriate boundaries.
Help connect clients with available services, resources, and staff support. Provide compassionate, client-centered service in all interactions. Shelter Operations & Safety Help maintain a safe, clean, structured, and welcoming shelter environment. Monitor shelter activities and respond appropriately to operational or behavioral concerns. Conduct routine facility walkthroughs to maintain awareness of client needs and shelter operations.
Assist with meal service, laundry services, and other daily operational activities. Support shelter policies and procedures while promoting a positive environment for clients and staff. Trauma-Informed Care & De-Escalation Utilize trauma-informed care practices in all client interactions. Remain calm and professional during stressful or high-conflict situations. Use de-escalation techniques to support positive outcomes and reduce tension.
Demonstrate patience, empathy, sound judgment, and emotional regulation. Documentation & Communication Complete timely and accurate documentation of incidents, client interactions, and services provided. Maintain accurate records within HMIS and other required systems. Ensure clear communication between shifts and team members regarding client needs, incidents, and operational updates. Protect client confidentiality and organizational information at all times.
Teamwork & Professionalism Work collaboratively with coworkers, supervisors, volunteers, and community partners. Participate in team meetings, trainings, and organizational initiatives. Maintain reliable attendance, punctuality, and professionalism. Support the mission, values, and culture of The Kearney Center in all aspects of the role. Perform other duties as assigned.
Preferred Qualifications
Job details are sourced from the employer's original posting.
Open job postingAbout the company
The Kearney Center is a non-profit organization focused on helping individuals experiencing homelessness move toward stability and independence. They aim to expand their impact by building meaningful partnerships and securing resources within the Big Bend community.