Job Description

Summary:

The City of Lawrence is seeking compassionate and dependable individuals to serve as Emergency Shelter Support Staff on a temporary, as-needed basis. This position provides evening and overnight support when the City activates an emergency shelter during severe weather and existing shelters cannot meet immediate community needs. Staff help ensure a safe and supportive environment for individuals seeking refuge. Shifts include weeknights, weekends, and holidays, often on short notice.

Key Responsibilities

• Work alongside trained City staff to assist with setup, guest check-in, and overall shelter operations.
• Monitor guests, uphold shelter expectations, and assist in de-escalating conflicts.
• Provide basic hospitality, including distributing bedding, snacks, and essential supplies.
• Conduct regular safety rounds to ensure guest well-being and facility security.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of the shelter space.
• Complete required documentation, including attendance, incident reports, and shift logs.

Qualifications

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to remain calm, empathetic, and solution-oriented under pressure.
• Experience working with vulnerable populations preferred.
• Willingness to work evening and overnight shifts on weekdays, weekends, and holidays, often on short notice.
• Ability to stay awake and alert throughout overnight shifts.
• Ability to lift, stand, and perform light physical tasks during setup and cleanup.

Position Details:

• Pay: $16–$24 per hour.
• Employment type: Temporary, on-call.
• Schedule: Evening and overnight shifts, including weeknights, weekends, and holidays. Hours vary based on severe weather conditions and shelter activation needs. Scheduled hours are not guaranteed.
• Support: All staff will work alongside trained City personnel and receive on-site support throughout each activation.