YAEH Support Specialist, Part-Time/On-Call at Rod s House – Sunnyside, Washington

Rod’s House is a non-profit organization, and all positions are funded through grants and federal funding. If funding is reduced or lost, positions may need to be reduced to ensure the organization can continue fulfilling its mission. At Rod’s House, every role is vital to supporting young adults in achieving stability, growth, and independence.

Our Mission: Rod's House builds authentic connections with young adults, encourages them to feel respected and secure, empowers them to reach their full potential, and connects them positively to the community.

Our Vision: Rod's House envisions an end to youth homelessness in the Yakima Valley. To break the cycle of homelessness, we engage volunteers, donors, and the community to ensure young adults’ basic needs are met, including safe and stable housing, education and employment opportunities, behavioral and physical health care, and individualized support.

Position Information
Title: Support Specialist
FLSA Status: Hourly, Part-Time/On-Call, Non-Exempt
Location(s): Young Adult Emergency Home
Reports to: Young Adult Emergency Home Program Manager

Overview:
Support Specialists at Rod’s House focus on providing a safe and stable environment for young adults to develop the skills needed to thrive independently. Support Specialists assist young adults (ages 18–24) experiencing homelessness and help guide them from temporary shelter to permanent housing.

Duties and Responsibilities

Relationship Building and Problem Solving

• Engage with young adults to create a safe and supportive environment

• Collaborate with case managers and program managers to meet needs

• Connect young adults to community and on-site resources

• Respond to and manage verbal, physical, or emotional conflicts

• Prevent and de-escalate challenging situations

• Maintain a professional and respectful approach

Safety and Cleanliness

• Escort young adults to designated activities and meal times

• Assist with housekeeping and maintain a clean, safe environment

• Conduct fire watch with proper documentation

• Complete closing duties to prepare sites for operations

• Transport linens and order supplies as needed

Data Management

• Participate in monthly program outcome reporting

• Complete assigned data entry and maintain accurate records

General

• Follow, update, and maintain standard operating procedures

• Recommend improvements to policies and procedures

• Provide general assistance as directed

Required or Preferred Education and/or Experience

• At least 1 year experience working directly with young adults (ages 18–24) experiencing homelessness, OR 2 years of social services education (required)

• High school diploma or equivalent (required) / bachelor’s degree (preferred)

• Strong problem-solving and communication skills (required)

• Experience working with individuals who have experienced trauma (preferred)

• Knowledge in human services, social work, education, or related field (preferred)

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Must be at least 21 years of age (required)

• Pass Washington State and Federal (FBI) criminal background checks (required)

• Valid driver’s license and auto insurance (required)

• Ability to work successfully with young adults in crisis

• Professionalism, patience, and flexibility in high-stress environments

• Ability to create systems and processes when needed

• Strong verbal and written communication skills

• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a team environment

• Ability to maintain confidentiality

• Commitment to Rod’s House mission and organizational goals

Work Conditions and Physical Requirements

• Shifts may include overnight, evening, early mornings, weekends, and holidays

• Frequent interactions with young adults, community members, and service providers

• Frequent walking, hearing, seeing, speaking, stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching, grasping, climbing, and repetitive motions

• Ability to lift, carry, pull, or move up to 50 pounds

• Ability to safely drive a 14-passenger van preferred

Rod’s House will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions unless it causes undue hardship.

Salary/Compensation and Benefits

• Starting hourly wage: $17.30

• Availability: Monday–Sunday, as the needs of the shelter require

• Paid time off and sick pay accrual

• Free CPR/First Aid, CPI, and WA State Food Handler Permit certifications

• Ongoing training and professional development

• Opportunity for career growth and advancement

Non-Profit Funding Disclaimer
Rod’s House is a non-profit organization. All positions are dependent on grants and federal funding. If funding is reduced or lost, positions may need to be reduced to ensure the organization continues fulfilling its mission.

At-Will Employment Statement
Employment with Rod’s House is at-will. Either the employee or Rod’s House may end the employment relationship at any time, with or without cause, notice, or reason. Nothing in this job description creates a contract or guarantee of continued employment.