Overnight Shelter Counsellor

Position: Full-Time Awake Overnight Shelter Counsellor- Temporary Contract

Contract Length: January 27, June 30, 2026, with the possibility of extension. This contract is to back-fill an individual who is on a job-protected leave.

Reports to: Shelter Manager

Hours of Work: Regularly scheduled over 30 hours per week, awake overnight shifts (11pm – 7:30am). Week 1 (Monday through Thursday), Week 2 (Sunday through Thursday).

Hourly Wage: $23.08 plus a $2 per hour shift premium

In partnership with our diverse community, Bethesda House provides inclusive, secure emergency shelter, outreach services, survivor-centered advocacy, prevention, education, and other supports to women and their children, empowering them to overcome the fear and oppression resulting from all forms of gender-based violence and abuse.

Role Description

This is a Full-Time Awake Overnight Shelter Counsellor - temporary contract - based on-site in Bowmanville, ON. The role involves providing evening and overnight support to residents, including crisis intervention and support for women and children affected by abuse. Responsibilities include answering our 24-hour telephone line, maintaining the safety and security of the shelter, responding to emergencies, building upkeep, documenting activities and incidents, other administrative tasks, and offering emotional support and advocacy to residents as needed. The counsellor will also assist with daily tasks such as intake assessments, resource referrals, and facilitating a safe, confidential, and welcoming shelter environment.

Qualifications

• Experience in crisis intervention, conflict resolution, and providing emotional support to individuals experiencing abuse
• Knowledge of gender-based violence and community resources
• Excellent verbal and written communication, active listening, and advocacy skills
• Ability to work effectively in high-pressure situations and maintain confidentiality
• Proficiency in basic administrative tasks, documentation, and reporting
• Experience working in sensitive, diverse, and inclusive environments
• A working knowledge of mental health issues and comfort/competency working alone with individuals experiencing mental health concerns
• A working knowledge of addictions and harm reduction, and comfort/competency
  working alone with individuals experiencing addiction concerns
• Knowledge of trauma-informed practices
• Flexibility to work overnight and adapt to dynamic situations within the shelter
• Relevant education or certification in social work, psychology, counseling, or a related field required
• First Aid/CPR certification required

Posting Closes: When the job is filled

If you would like to be considered for this position, please submit your cover letter and resume to the Executive Director via email at or apply via LinkedIn.

As per the Employment Equity Act, Bethesda House welcomes and encourages applications from, and provides equal employment/volunteer/student opportunities to, women, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, and members of visible minorities. Accommodation will be provided for interviews for persons with disabilities. Bethesda House is an 2SLGBTQ+ positive space.

Although we welcome all to apply, only those chosen for an interview will be contacted.