Job Description for a Women's Shelter Worker
Women's shelter employees provide case management, advocacy and counseling for women and children escaping domestic violence. Things to consider when crafting a job description are the specific qualities and experiences a shelter worker should have and what kind of information about the job needs to be conveyed to prospective employees.
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Duties
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Women's shelter employees supervise the daily operations of a residential home. This includes physical tasks such as cleaning, laundering and changing linens, sorting donations and upkeep of the residence. It also includes providing support and short-term counseling, childcare, helping clients set goals, documenting client interaction, providing transportation and case management. Often, women's shelter employees also provide coverage for the agency hotline.
Skills
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Knowledge of intimate partner violence and sexual assault issues are essential to any job at a women's shelter. Employees should also have training and experience in counseling and social work. Most women's shelters provide extensive training upon hire, but prior experience is helpful.
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Environment
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Confidentiality and safety are extremely important for both clients and staff at a women's shelter. Often, the location of the shelter itself is on a need-to-know basis. Because clients and their families are escaping violence, it can be an emotionally demanding environment. Maintaining a safe environment for clients both emotionally and physically is paramount.
Requirements
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Some women's shelters require a Master's of Social Work or similar advanced degree. Other shelters only require a high school diploma or equivalent. Having a degree or considerable experience in social work, women's studies, psychology, sociology or a similar field is helpful. Staff will need to be available some weekends and evenings. Usually, a current driver's license is required so that staff can transport clients to their appointments.
Benefits
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Women's shelter jobs are typically paid and include basic benefits such as health insurance and a retirement plan. Women's shelters are usually tied to a social service agency that provides broad services for victims of violence. Women's shelter employees can often transfer to other jobs within the agency such as long-term counseling, court advocacy or administrative jobs. Working at a women's shelter provides substantial experience for future careers in social work, counseling or residential services.
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References
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