About this position
Mission
Rod’s House empowers young people experiencing homelessness to achieve self-sufficiency through shelter, resources, and supportive services that promote stability and long-term success.
Vision
A community where every young person has access to safe housing, meaningful opportunities, and the support needed to thrive independently.
Position Information
Title: Support Specialist (On-Call)
FLSA Status: Hourly, Part-Time/On-Call, Non-Exempt
Location: Hope Center Young Adult Emergency Home
Reports To: Hope Center Young Adult Emergency Home Program Supervisor/Manager
Position Summary
Support Specialists at Rod’s House provide a safe, structured, and stable environment where young adults can develop the skills necessary to live independently. This role supports young people ages 18–24 experiencing homelessness throughout Yakima County.
Support Specialists play a critical role in maintaining a secure residential setting, supporting program operations, and assisting residents as they transition from emergency shelter to permanent, stable housing.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Create and maintain a safe, structured, and welcoming environment for residents
Work collaboratively with case managers and program leadership to support resident goals
Connect residents to community and on-site resources to ensure basic needs are met
Respond appropriately to verbal, physical, or emotional conflicts and assist in de-escalation
Monitor resident behavior and maintain program expectations and house guidelines
Escort residents to designated activities and mealtimes as needed
Assist with housekeeping duties to maintain cleanliness and organization of all program areas
Ensure the safety of residents, staff, and volunteers at all times
Conduct fire watch and complete required documentation
Complete closing and shift-change duties to ensure smooth daily operations
Transport linens and supplies as needed
Order supplies and maintain inventory as assigned
Complete required documentation and data entry accurately and in a timely manner
Maintain organized and accurate records
Follow established policies and procedures and recommend improvements when appropriate
Assist in monthly program outcome reporting
Demonstrate initiative in developing systems or processes when needed
Perform other duties as assigned
Education and Experience
Minimum of 1 year of experience working directly with youth (ages 13–17) and/or young adults (ages 18–24), particularly those experiencing homelessness
ORTwo (2) years of education in Social Services, Human Services, Social Work, Education, or a related field
Must be at least 21 years of age
Valid driver’s license and proof of auto insurance required
High school diploma or equivalent required
Bilingual (Spanish/English) preferred
Must be able to successfully pass a Washington State Patrol (WSP) and FBI background check
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Experience working with individuals impacted by trauma, mental health conditions, and substance use disorders
Knowledge of human services, social work, education, or related disciplines
Strong conflict resolution and de-escalation skills
Ability to maintain professional boundaries and exercise sound judgment
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Ability to follow policies and procedures consistently
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Strong organizational and documentation skills
Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism
Compensation and Benefits
Starting hourly wage: $17.30
Paid sick leave
Opportunities for professional growth and advancement
Work Conditions and Physical Requirements
Shifts may include overnight, evenings, early mornings, weekends, and holidays. (No guarantee shifts or hours)
This role requires daily interaction with young adults experiencing homelessness, community partners, and social service providers.
Physical requirements include frequent walking, standing, hearing, speaking, stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching, grasping, climbing, and repetitive motions. The position requires the ability to lift, carry, push, or pull up to 50 pounds.
Ability to safely operate a 14-passenger van is strongly preferred.
Equal Employment Statement
Rod’s House is an equal opportunity employer. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and organizational needs. All qualified applicants will be considered in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.
No Smoking Policy
Smoking, vaping, or the use of tobacco products is prohibited in all Rod’s House facilities and vehicles.
Drug-Free Workplace Statement
Rod’s House maintains a drug-free work environment. The use, possession, distribution, or impairment from any drugs, including marijuana, is prohibited at all times while on duty, on organizational property, or while representing Rod’s House, regardless of state legalization status.
At-Will Employment Statement
Employment with Rod’s House is at-will, meaning either the employee or Rod’s House may terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without cause or notice, in accordance with applicable law.
Non-Profit Funding Disclaimer
Rod’s House is a non-profit organization that relies on private donations, grants, and state and federal funding. Continued employment may be contingent upon the availability of funding and program sustainability.
Salary Information