Employer: The Domestic Violence Shelter
Employee Type: Part Time
Base Salary: $18/hour to start
Website: https://thedvshelter.com/
Position Summary:
The Environmental Advocate is responsible for maintaining a clean, safe, and welcoming facility that supports the physical and emotional well-being of survivors. This role ensures that all shelter environments reflect trauma-informed, survivor-centered principles by prioritizing cleanliness, safety, organization, and respectful shared spaces.
Aligned with ODVN and OAESV standards, this position contributes to a healing-centered environment by supporting facility operations, maintaining sanitary conditions, assisting with basic repairs, and promoting environmental sustainability practices. The Environmental Advocate plays an essential role in ensuring the shelter remains a dignified, secure, and supportive space for all residents, staff, and visitors.
Key Responsibilities:
Cleaning, Sanitation & Safety (Primary Function)
• Maintain cleanliness and sanitation of all facility areas, including resident rooms upon departure or as requested, restrooms, kitchens, common areas, and exterior spaces
• Follow established cleaning, sanitation, and infection control protocols
• Ensure safe handling, storage, and use of cleaning products in alignment with safety guidelines
• Monitor and restock sanitation supplies and report inventory needs
• Support a physically and emotionally safe environment that minimizes health risks and promotes dignity
Facilities Maintenance & Repair (as requested)
• Perform basic maintenance and minor repairs (e.g., furniture, fixtures, walls)
• Identify, document, and report larger maintenance or safety concerns promptly
• Assist with room setup, furniture arrangement, and program/event logistics
• Complete routine outdoor maintenance, including grounds upkeep
Environmental Stewardship
• Promote sustainable practices such as recycling, waste reduction, and energy conservation
• Support environmentally responsible purchasing, use of green cleaning products, and resource management
• Assist with initiatives such as composting and recycling education for residents and staff
Space Organization & Inventory Support (Initiated after consistent completion of core cleaning duties)
• Organize storage areas, supply rooms, and shared spaces for accessibility and efficiency
• Maintain inventory systems for cleaning supplies and facility-related materials
• Assist with labeling, storage systems, and organization of donations and facility items
Collaboration & Team Support
• Work collaboratively with shelter staff to support program and facility needs
• Participate in team meetings and contribute to safety and facility planning discussions
• Respond respectfully and appropriately to resident and staff needs within a trauma-informed framework
• Perform additional duties as assigned by leadership
Qualifications
Education & Experience
• High school diploma or equivalent required
• Experience in custodial services, maintenance, or facilities support preferred
• Basic knowledge of cleaning methods, tools, and minor repair techniques
Knowledge & Skills
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
• Ability to complete physical tasks, including lifting up to 40 lbs., bending, and prolonged standing
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Strong time management and reliability
Core Competencies (ODVN/OAESV-Aligned)
• Trauma-Informed Practice: Maintains a safe, respectful, and predictable environment that supports healing
• Survivor-Centered Approach: Respects resident dignity, privacy, and autonomy in shared spaces
• Confidentiality & Ethics: Protects resident information and maintains professional boundaries
• Cultural Humility: Demonstrates respect for diverse backgrounds, identities, and experiences
• Safety Awareness: Identifies and responds to environmental risks and hazards
• Collaboration: Communicates effectively and supports a team-based environment
Additional Requirements
• Ability to maintain confidentiality in a shelter setting
• Ability to work within a trauma-informed, crisis-responsive environment
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed
• Demonstrated reliability, punctuality, and accountability
• Commitment to equity, inclusion, and respectful communication
• Professional appearance consistent with organizational standards
Work Environment
This position operates in a residential shelter and office setting with frequent exposure to shared living spaces. The role requires physical activity and interaction within a trauma-informed environment serving individuals in crisis.
Disclaimer: All staff are expected to communicate ethically engaged in providing excellent customer service and further their capacity to foster an environment of cultural inclusivity and sensitivity that is the foundation for all our work. Domestic Violence Shelter is an equal opportunity for employers committed to diversity and inclusion. For more information, visit https://www.thedvshelter.com/
The Domestic Violence Shelter is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.
