Front Desk - weekend shifts

At Bethesda House, our goal is to end the cycle of poverty and homelessness - not just manage the symptoms.

Our teams work to address each individual on a holistic level so they feel heard, respected, and safe in our care. We offer hands-on help to address chronic homelessness, mental health, substance abuse, disability, and systematic poverty by offering innovative solutions and proactive services to the most vulnerable in Schenectady County.

This position is based in the Bethesda House main building at 834 State Street in Schenectady. 

The Front Desk position is responsible for managing building access, answering the switchboard, monitoring security cameras, greeting the public and program participants while maintaining a safe and welcoming environment. Front desk coverage operates 24/7 - consistent attendance and punctuality are essential for this role. Responsibilities will vary depending on shift. 

Available Shifts (updated 12-29-25):

• Sat & Sun: 8am-4pm (8 hr shifts | 16 hrs/week) $16.00/hr 
• Sat & Sun: 10pm-8am (10 hr shifts | 20 hrs/week) $16.50/hr 
• Every other Sat & Sun: 4pm-10pm (6 hr shifts | 2 days e/o week) $16.00/hr 

Primary responsibilities:

• Monitor all visitors, residents, and guests who enter and exit the building.
• Monitor security cameras, control building access, and observe all movement in and out of the building. This position monitors the security cameras for all locations.
• During Code Blue Season (Nov - Apr), this role is responsible for laundering and folding the blankets—record activity on the Front Desk Check-list grid.
• Follow all safety, emergency, and after-hours on-call procedures as needed.
• Conduct hourly rounds to ensure building security and address any issues.
• Keep records as required for the Log Book with appropriate information written clearly and in detail.
• Utilize the Resident Guest Book to ensure that only approved guests for each resident are on the approved list.

Qualifications:

• High school diploma (or equivalent) and 2–5 years of related work experience.
• Strong communication skills, professional demeanor, and ability to maintain professional boundaries and confidentiality.
• Computer literacy with data entry skills and ability to operate phone systems professionally.
• Experience working with diverse populations, including individuals experiencing homelessness, mental illness, or substance use. 
• Ability to maintain appropriate boundaries and keep confidential information regarding employees, volunteers, residents, and guests.
• Ability to respond to emergencies, resolve conflicts, work independently, and provide flexible coverage when needed.
• Must have access to reliable transportation to and from work.

This description does not contain a comprehensive list of duties, responsibilities or activities that are required of the employee. Additional duties and responsibilities may be assigned as needed and at any time with or without notice. All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of a background check including a DMV record search if driving is required for the position.

Bethesda House is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In all employment and hiring decisions, the Agency complies with applicable anti-discrimination laws. This policy applies to all employment practices, including hiring, advertising, recruitment, promotion, demotion/transfer, layoff/termination of employment, rates of pay or other forms of compensation, and selection for training and development.