Lead Housing Advocate

Position Summary 

The Salvation Army Northern Division Harbor Light Center (HLC) and satellite locations is “Doing the Most Good” by providing shelter, housing, and holistic, person-centered, supportive services to over 300 single adults each night. HLC also offers worship services, pastoral care, and connections to community partners. 

The Lead Housing Advocate provides direct support to adults experiencing homelessness by building relationships, offering advocacy, and ensuring a safe and welcoming shelter environment. Advocates assist participants in navigating shelter expectations, accessing services, and responding to crises. In addition to direct client care, the Lead Advocate provides on-site oversight in the absence of management, ensuring policies and procedures are followed and escalating concerns to on-call supervisors as needed. The role also includes accurate recordkeeping, promoting engagement in available programs, and collaborating with internal colleagues to support initiatives and maintain resource connections that foster long-term stability. 

Essential Functions (Approximate Time Spent)  

• Client Care (70%): Provide compassionate, person-centered support to adult participants through both short- and long-term advocacy. Assist participants in navigating shelter policies, responding to crises, and maintaining a safe, respectful environment, including supporting participants on the floor and at meals and conducting regular rounds. 

• On-Site Oversight (10%): Act as on-site supervisor in absence of management. Ensure adherence to policies and procedures and contact on-call supervisors as needed.  

• Participant Information Management (10%): Ensure participant records, including intakes and incident reports, are accurately maintained and consistently documented in accordance with organizational standards. 

• Program Promotion (5%): Connect participants with available social services and corps activities. 

• Organizational Engagement & Resource Development (5%): Collaborate with colleagues to support HLC initiatives and help maintain a catalog of local resources that support participant success.  

Education and Experience 

• High school diploma or GED required. 

• 2–3 years of experience in client- or customer-facing roles, including at least 1 year in a social services, shelter, or related setting. 

• Prior supervisory or shift lead experience preferred. 

• Must successfully pass all required background checks. 

• Valid driver’s license and ability to meet MVR (Motor Vehicle Record) requirements preferred.  

Competencies 

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to build rapport and work effectively with diverse populations. 

• Ability to work collaboratively within a team and accept supervision and direction. 

• Sensitivity to issues related to homelessn