Overview

Open Arms Resource Centre is seeking Team Leads to support the day-to-day operations of our shelter and housing programs. This role provides on-shift supervision, coordinates staffing, and ensures consistent, high-quality service delivery across sites.

You’ll play a key leadership role in supporting front-line staff, maintaining safe operations, and ensuring guests receive respectful, housing-focused support grounded in a Housing First approach.

Job Specifics

- Job Type: Full-time, In-Person (predominantly working at shelter) days and evenings
- Location: Kentville, NS
- Number of Open Vacancies: 2+

Responsibilities Shift Leadership & Staff Support

- Provide on-shift supervision, guidance, and coaching to front-line staff
- Promote a positive, respectful, and collaborative team environment
- Address performance concerns in collaboration with management

Staffing & Scheduling

- Coordinate shift coverage, including short-notice staffing needs
- Build and manage staff schedules with the Shelter Programs Manager
- Support payroll coordination for assigned staff

Operations & Program Support

- Step in to support guest interactions, including crisis situations
- Ensure compliance with policies, procedures, and safety protocols
- Complete shift reports, incident documentation, and HIFIS entries
- Support food safety practices, inventory, and general site operations

Communication & Leadership

- Act as a liaison between staff and management
- Model professionalism, accountability, and strong leadership

Qualifications

- Completion of a high school diploma or equivalent is required. Post-secondary education in social work, human services, or a related field is preferred.
- A minimum of two years of experience in a shelter, housing program,



or similar human services environment is required. Previous supervisory or team-lead experience is preferred.
- Experience working with diverse populations, including individuals experiencing homelessness or housing instability.
- Strong organizational, multitasking, problem-solving, decision-making, and leadership skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Effective verbal and written communication skills to support staff coordination, documentation, and operational communication.

Physical and Operational Requirements

- Ability to safely carry out routine operational and support tasks associated with shelter and housing program environments, including light cleaning, food preparation support, and general upkeep duties.
- Ability to move between sites, remain on one’s feet for extended periods as needed, and handle light materials or supplies required for daily operations.

Compensation & Benefits:

- $24.00 - $25.00 per hour
- Casual dress
- Company events
- Dental care, Extended health care, Life insurance, Vision care
- Paid time off
- You will be part of a supportive team, with regular team meetings, team-oriented work, and opportunities for professional development and training.

About Open Arms: Open Arms is a dynamic and growing nonprofit organization dedicated to providing shelter, support, and community services to individuals experiencing homelessness. Rooted in Christian values, our mission is to create lasting, positive change by addressing the root causes of homelessness and fostering a supportive environment for those in need. We are committed to treating every individual with dignity and respect, recognizing the inherent worth and unique journey of each person.

Pay: $24.00 per hour

Work Location: In person

📌 Team Lead (Kentville)
🏢 Open Arms Resource Centre Society
📍 Kentville