WCS - Resident Assistant

Union Gospel Mission (UGM) is a dedicated, privately funded 501(c)(3) non-profit evangelical Christian ministry focused on serving the homeless and impoverished communities. Rooted deeply in Christian faith, UGM’s mission is to share the Gospel while providing critical supportive services to individuals facing homelessness, addiction, and poverty. With a strong emphasis on ministry and spiritual growth, every position at UGM is considered an essential part of its holistic mission. Employees are not only staff members but also vital ministry partners who are expected to have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and actively participate in spiritual activities such as Bible study, prayer, devotions, and gospel sharing. UGM operates with a firm commitment to its Statement of Faith and Core Values, fostering an environment grounded in Christian love, compassion, and service to those in need.

The role of Resident Assistant within UGM is a crucial position in the Client Services department that entails the supervision and management of daily shelter operations. Reporting directly to the Client Services Manager, the Resident Assistant oversees all aspects of client service delivery and house management to ensure a safe, clean, and healing environment for clients, volunteers, and staff members. This role is essential in maintaining the smooth functioning of the shelter, ensuring compliance with organizational policies and site-specific procedures, and providing leadership and supervision to volunteers and desk staff. The Resident Assistant acts as a first point of contact for clients, addressing inquiries and issues sensitively while maintaining order and safety within the facility.

In addition to operational oversight, the Resident Assistant plays a vital role in security, monitoring surveillance equipment, performing security checks, ensuring the safety of the facility and its occupants, and managing incident reports for any violent or critical episodes. Responsibilities include administering client intakes and exits, performing random substance use tests such as Breathalyzer and urinalysis, managing medication logs, and organizing supplies. They also monitor client behavior and enforce healthy boundaries, contributing to a respectful and supportive environment.

The position includes shift-specific duties, including swing and graveyard shifts, where the Resident Assistant must manage various operational and pastoral tasks such as overseeing meal lines, coordinating with chapel functions, managing visitor check-ins, and ensuring proper storage of client belongings. The role demands strong interpersonal skills, unwavering compassion, discernment, and a commitment to modeling the teachings of Jesus Christ. The Resident Assistant must demonstrate reliability, honesty, and professionalism, upholding the high standards expected by UGM and actively contributing to the ministry’s objectives.

This role requires the commitment of an individual who is not only professionally competent but also deeply motivated by faith and service. Essential qualifications include three years of sobriety if in recovery, valid Washington or Idaho driver’s license, and preferred experience working with low-income populations or individuals struggling with addiction. The Resident Assistant is also expected to maintain physical and emotional resilience, being able to work indoors for extended periods and handle challenging interpersonal situations with patience and empathy.

UGM offers a supportive work environment that provides extensive benefits, including paid time off, access to medical, dental, vision, and life insurance plans, and participation in a 403(b) retirement plan with company matching after one year of service. The Resident Assistant role is a full-time, ministry-centered position that not only supports vulnerable populations but also nurtures spiritual growth and community engagement within a faith-based organizational culture. This is an opportunity for a dedicated Christian professional to make a meaningful impact while advancing their commitment to service and ministry.