Job Openings:

Shelter Advocate

Next Step Domestic Violence Project | Serving Washington County, Maine

Next Step Domestic Violence Project is seeking a compassionate, dependable, and collaborative individual to join our team as a full-time Shelter Advocate serving Washington County. We are sharing this opportunity internally and within our personal and professional networks as we look for someone who is committed to supporting survivors and helping create a safe, respectful, and welcoming shelter environment.

About the Position

The Shelter Advocate provides direct support and advocacy to residents of Next Step’s shelter while helping ensure the safe and effective operation of our residential program in Washington County.

This position works closely with shelter guests throughout their stay, assisting with onboarding and documentation, housing and community resource navigation, personal needs, and life and safety planning. The Shelter Advocate also helps foster a positive communal living environment through house meetings, activities and resources, attention to shelter conditions and supplies, and support with maintaining shared spaces.

Additional responsibilities include participation in helpline training and coverage, community engagement, documentation and data collection, trainings, and other organizational activities that support Next Step’s mission and services.

Who We’re Looking For

We are looking for someone who brings compassion, professionalism, strong communication and listening skills, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

Candidates should have knowledge of and sensitivity to issues related to domestic violence, sexual violence, dating violence, and stalking, as well as an understanding of diversity and cultural competency.

The position requires a high school diploma or equivalent, basic computer competency, and the willingness to complete Next Step hotline training and participate in ongoing training and education. A valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, required insurance, and satisfactory completion of required background checks are also required.

Position & Benefits

Location: Washington County, Maine
Position: Full-time, exempt (salaried)
Salary: $50,000 annually

Next Step offers benefits to eligible full-time employees, including health and dental insurance, employer HSA contributions, disability and life insurance, retirement benefits, vacation/EPL and sick time, and paid holidays. Benefits are subject to the terms of Next Step’s current policies and benefit plans.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit a letter of interest and résumé to:

Brandi Mason
Director of Housing
bmason@nextstepdvproject.org

Application deadline: October 9, 2026

Advertisement will be live until position is filled.

We are glad you might be interested in working at NextStep! When we have open positions, we post them here on our website and on our Facebook page.

We also actively recruit from among our active volunteer pool. Volunteering is a great way to experience what it is like to work with us. If you are interested in volunteering with us, you can learn more here.

NextStep Domestic Violence Project is an equal-opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status.