Overnight Shelter Support Worker
South Shore Open Doors Association (SSODA)
Position Objective
South Shore Open Doors Association is seeking compassionate, dependable, and emotionally resilient individuals to join our overnight shelter team in both full-time and casual positions. Overnight Shelter Support Workers play a vital role in creating a safe, respectful, and supportive environment for individuals experiencing homelessness, mental health challenges, addiction, and crisis.
This position is best suited for people who can remain calm under pressure, think critically in fast-moving situations, communicate respectfully, and maintain healthy boundaries while leading with empathy and compassion. We are a low-barrier shelter focused on dignity, harm reduction, and trauma-informed care, and we value team members who approach others without judgement and with an open mind.
At SSODA, we strongly value lived experience and believe it can be an incredible strength within this work. Training, mentorship, and ongoing support will be provided to successful applicants.
Position Type & Schedule
- Full-Time & Casual Positions Available
- 12-hour overnight shifts
- Full-time employees work on one of two overnight teams
- Rotating 3 on / 3 off schedule
Employee Benefits
- Employee Health & Dental Benefits
- Life Insurance Coverage
- Company Matching RRSP Program
- Up to 12% total contribution
- Overnight Shift Premium
Key Responsibilities
- Provide overnight support and supervision within a low-barrier shelter setting
- Build respectful, professional relationships with shelter guests
- Support individuals experiencing homelessness, mental health challenges, addiction, and crisis situations
- Utilize trauma-informed and de-escalation approaches during difficult situations
- Monitor shelter safety and respond appropriately to emergencies or crises
- Maintain accurate documentation and complete light computer-based tasks
- Perform routine cleaning and help maintain a safe, welcoming environment
- Work collaboratively as part of an overnight team
- Maintain professional boundaries while remaining compassionate and supportive
- Stay alert and awake throughout 12-hour overnight shifts
Qualifications & Personal Attributes
We are looking for individuals who demonstrate:
- Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills
- Ability to remain calm during crisis situations
- Trauma-informed and non-judgmental approaches
- Strong communication and boundary-setting skills
- Emotional resilience and professionalism
- Reliability and accountability
- Ability to work well within a team environment
- Compassion, empathy, and patience
- Open-mindedness and respect for diverse lived experiences
Preferred Assets
- Experience working in shelters, social services, healthcare, addictions, mental health, or community support settings
- Lived experience related to homelessness, addiction, recovery, or mental health
- Knowledge of harm reduction principles
- CPR/First Aid or willingness to obtain
Training & Support
SSODA is committed to supporting staff growth and wellness. Successful applicants will receive training, mentorship, and ongoing support to help build confidence, skills, and long-term success within the role.
To apply or inquire about joining our overnight team at South Shore Open Doors Association, applicants may submit a resume and expression of interest to:
Taylor Wentzel
Overnight Manager
[email protected]
Pay: From $23.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Casual dress
- Dental care
- Extended health care
- Flexible schedule
- Life insurance
- On-site parking
- Vision care
Work Location: In person
