About the Role
The Overnight Shelter Staff is an entry-level role responsible for supporting the safety, dignity, and basic needs of guests during overnight hours. This position maintains a calm, welcoming environment; monitors the facility; follows safety procedures; documents activities; and coordinates with the daytime team to ensure continuity of care. The ideal candidate is dependable, compassionate, and steady under pressure.
Requirements
Department: Operations
Reports To: Shelter Manager (or Shift Supervisor)
FLSA: Non-exempt, Part-time or Full-time
Location: Rainbow Place Shelter — Montgomery County, MD
Schedule: Overnight shifts (e.g., 06:30 PM–07:00 AM); includes weekends/holidays on a
rotating basis
Key Responsibilities
Guest Support & Services
Greet guests and conduct check-in following shelter policies; distribute linens and basic supplies.
Provide supportive listening, crisis-prevention, and problem-solving using trauma-informed practices.
Assist with nightly routines (showers, laundry sign-ups, quiet hours), curfew adherence, and wake-ups.
Coordinate distribution of meals/snacks and monitor food areas to ensure cleanliness and safety.
Respond professionally to guest concerns, conflicts, or escalations; seek supervisory support as appropriate.
Safety, Security & Facility Care
Maintain continuous awareness of the milieu; conduct regular walkthroughs and bed checks.
Enforce house guidelines consistently and respectfully; complete incident reports when required.
Monitor entry/exit points; manage visitor/vendor access per protocol.
Perform light cleaning tasks (common areas, restrooms) and support infection-control practices.
Identify maintenance issues and report promptly (e.g., HVAC, plumbing, alarms).
Documentation & Communication
Complete nightly logs (guest census, supplies distributed, notable events).
File incident reports, medication logs (if applicable), and other forms accurately and on time.
Relay key information to the next shift and supervisors to ensure continuity of care.
Use basic data systems or spreadsheets for attendance and outcomes tracking as directed.
Teamwork & Culture
Model Rainbow Place values of dignity, respect, equity, and inclusivity.
Participate in required trainings (trauma-informed care, de-escalation, CPR/First Aid, safety).
Collaborate with volunteers and partner staff on-site during evening/overnight hours.
Minimum Qualifications
High school diploma or GED required.
6+ months of customer service, community service, caregiving, youth work, or related experience preferred (volunteer experience welcome).
Comfort working overnight hours and maintaining professionalism in a low-barrier shelter setting.
Basic computer skills (email, data entry, shared drives).
Strong interpersonal skills: patient, non-judgmental, and culturally responsive.
Ability to maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries.
Required Certifications & Checks
Must pass background check per organizational policy.
CPR/First Aid certification (or obtain within 30 days of hire).
TB test/health clearance if required by county or funder.
Physical & Environmental Requirements
Ability to remain awake and alert throughout the shift.
Frequent standing/walking; occasional lifting up to 25 lbs.; ability to respond quickly in emergencies.
Work occurs in a shelter environment with shared spaces and occasional exposure to cleaning supplies.
Core Competencies
Trauma-Informed, Person-Centered Approach
De-escalation & Conflict Resolution
Reliability & Sound Judgment
Clear Verbal/Written Communication
Cultural Humility & Equity Mindset
Teamwork & Accountability
Compensation & Benefits
Hourly, non-exempt; competitive rate commensurate with experience.
Shift differentials may apply for overnight/weekend/holiday shifts.
Benefits eligibility per Rainbow Place policy (e.g., health, PTO) if full-time.
How to Apply
Send your resume and a brief note about your interest and availability to director@rainbowplace.org with subject line: “Overnight Shelter Staff – Your Name.”
Applications reviewed on a rolling basis.
About the Company
Rainbow Place Shelter has functioned as a seasonal overnight emergency hypothermia shelter in Rockville for women experiencing homelessness since 1982. Historically, the shelter has been open from November through March, keeping women safe in Montgomery County during the coldest months of the year. In addition to treating our guests with kindness and compassion, we actively help them transition out of homelessness and into more stable housing. However, the COVID pandemic has brought change to many social service organizations, leading them to adapt to changing needs. We’re in the exciting process of expanding and shifting Rainbow’s mission to focus on youth/young adults 18-24 years of age, including the LGBTQ+ community, with year-round emergency shelter.
Rainbow Place is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to building a diverse, inclusive team. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds and identities.