Front Desk Receptionist

The Committee on Temporary Shelter is currently recruiting for a reliable, community minded individual who is committed to our mission and is available to work in a full-time Front Desk Receptionist position. The Front Desk Receptionist supports various administrative functions and general operations for our organization. This role serves as the first point of contact for many of our guests, clients, tenants, donors, volunteers, and community stakeholders. They are responsible for maintaining the reception area at 95 North Avenue and ensuring we are serving as a safe, inclusive, and welcoming space for all, while addressing the needs of those visiting our space respectfully and effectively. Primary Responsibilities: • Reliably and consistently provide coverage for our Reception area, including: answering phones and directing callers to the appropriate resource; welcoming visitors, determining their reason for visiting, and connecting them to the appropriate COTS team member to address their needs; opening and closing the COTS main office following established protocols and safety measures. • Supporting supplies inventory including tracking and ordering supplies, notifying appropriate team members of arrival, and ensuring supplies are distributed as needed. • Working closely with the Development team during our annual events and giving season to support in-kind donation acceptance and organization. • Enter data into our HMIS (Homeless Management Information System) and other systems as applicable. • Assist with meeting and event preparation. • Ensuring the office environments are organized, stocked, and maintain an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere. • Proactively identify opportunities to enhance our visitor experience at COTS. • Partner closely with the Office Manager to ensure organizational documents such as phone lists are kept up to date. • Collect and distribute mail. This includes picking mail up from the post office and sorting. • Build and maintain positive, collaborative working relationships with all COTS team members and community partners as applicable. • This role will support all areas of the organization with administrative projects as needed. • Attend professional development and training opportunities as provided. • Attend program and organization wide staff meetings. • Other duties as assigned. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities • Requires the ability to travel locally within the Burlington area. • Strong organization skills and attention to detail. • Ability to multitask and adapt frequently. • Ability to work with individuals with mental health, medical, substance abuse and employment issues required. • Ability to work autonomously and manage time effectively. Reliability and timeliness are required. • Intermediate problem solving and critical thinking skills. • Ability to work effectively with team members from all levels within the organization. Required Education & Experience • High school degree required; some post-secondary course work preferred. • Minimum of one year of experience in office administration required, preferably in human services or a nonprofit environment. • A combination of experience and coursework in lieu of either requirement will be considered. • Must have advanced computer skills and be able to use Microsoft Office applications. • Demonstrated experience with crisis management and de-escalation required. • Strong candidates will have experience with individuals experiencing homelessness and crisis intervention. All positions at COTS require a commitment to our mission: Advocating for long-term solutions to end homelessness and provide emergency shelter, services, and long-term housing for Vermonters who are experiencing homelessness or are marginally housed. Benefits: • Dental insurance • Employee assistance program • Employee discount • Flexible spending account • Health insurance • Health savings account • Life insurance • Paid time off • Referral program • Vision insurance Schedule: • 8 hour shift • Holidays • Monday to Friday We are a team of passionate individuals who believe in the value and dignity of every human life. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer; we do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. We embrace diversity and encourage all to apply.

About COMMITTEE ON TEMPORARY SHELTER

For 40 years COTS has been working in Chittenden County to creatively find solutions to end homelessness; we aren’t afraid to try new things. We are looking for team members with a passion for doing good and creative thinking. COTS offers a competitive benefits package including access to healthcare, retirement savings, and robust time off, as well as benefits focused on supporting human services professionals with mental and emotional wellbeing. COTS strives to create a supportive, collaborative and fun work environment...consider joining us on our mission to end homelessness!