Position Summary 

The Client Support Specialist (CSS) is a non-clinical operational support role responsible primarily for maintaining clean, safe, and orderly program environments while supporting basic client needs such as meal service and room readiness. This position plays a critical role in site operations by ensuring client living areas, common spaces, and service areas meet cleanliness and safety standards. 

The CSS also performs limited client-facing support functions such as meal distribution, basic observation, and reporting concerns to licensed or supervisory staff. This role does not provide clinical care and works as part of an interdisciplinary team to support overall program operations. 

The Client Support Specialist supports CalAIM-covered services in a non-clinical capacity and works as part of an interdisciplinary team, escalating clinical, safety, and behavioral health concerns to licensed staff as required 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities - Environmental Services / Janitorial Operations (Primary Function) 

• Perform daily cleaning and upkeep of assigned client rooms, restrooms, common areas, and staff spaces 

• Ensure rooms are clean, safe, and ready for occupancy at shift change 

• Empty trash, replace liners, and maintain sanitation standards throughout assigned areas 

• Clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces (tables, chairs, door handles, railings, counters, etc.) 

• Sweep, mop, and spot-clean floors as required 

• Support linen management, including stocking clean linens and removing soiled linens to designated areas 

• Restock cleaning supplies, PPE, and basic site materials as assigned 

• Properly store cleaning equipment and materials at end of shift 

• Report maintenance, safety hazards, or supply shortages promptly 

Food Service & Meal Support 

• Assist with meal preparation setup, distribution, and cleanup in accordance with site protocols 

• Serve meals and beverages to clients in a respectful and orderly manner 

• Maintain cleanliness of kitchen and meal service areas, including counters, tables, sinks, and floors 

• Support dishwashing, trash removal, and restocking of meal service supplies 

• Always follow food safety and sanitation guidelines. 

Basic Client Support & Observation (Non-Clinical) 

• Provide limited non-clinical assistance related to daily routines (meal access, room readiness, basic mobility support as trained) 

• Observe client wellbeing and report changes in condition, behavior, or safety concerns to licensed or supervisory staff 

• Maintain professional boundaries and client dignity 

• Utilize non-clinical de-escalation techniques when appropriate and escalate concerns promptly 

Documentation & Communication 

• Complete required cleaning checklists, shift logs, and incident reports accurately and on time 

• Communicate operational needs, safety issues, and task completion to team members and supervisors 

• Participate in shift handoffs as required 

Team & Operations Support 

• Collaborate with coworkers to complete shared operational tasks 

• Assist with site readiness, supply stocking, and general upkeep during busy periods 

• Follow supervisory directions regarding daily priorities and assignments 

• Maintain a cooperative, professional attitude and contribute positively to team workflow 

SCOPE OF PRACTICE & ROLE BOUNDARIES 

This position is a non-clinical support role. 

The Client Support Specialist does not: 

• Provide medical, nursing, or licensed behavioral health treatment 

• Conduct clinical or diagnostic assessments 

• Provide psychotherapy or counseling 

• Make treatment decisions or clinical judgments 

• Administer or manage medications 

• Represent themselves as licensed or clinical staff 

QUALIFICATIONS 

Required 

• High school diploma or equivalent 

• Experience in residential services, healthcare support, shelter programs, or social services (preferred) 

• Strong communication skills and ability to work within a team 

Preferred 

• Experience working with vulnerable or high-acuity populations 

• Familiarity with trauma-informed care principles 

CORE COMPETENCIES 

The Client Support Specialist is expected to demonstrate the following core competencies: 

• Trauma-informed, client-centered support 

• Cultural humility and responsiveness 

• Professional boundary setting and adherence to scope of practice 

• Sound judgment regarding escalation and safety concerns 

• Effective verbal communication 

• Accurate and timely documentation 

• Team collaboration and reliability 

• Commitment to confidentiality, compliance, and ethical practice 

WORKING CONDITIONS & PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS 

• Site-based, residential, and/or community-based work environment 

• Regular walking, standing, bending, and assisting clients with mobility 

• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs 

• Exposure to individuals with behavioral health needs or infectious conditions 

• Compliance with WPCC safety, PPE, and Cal-OSHA requirements 

SCHEDULE & TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS 

• Full-time, non-exempt position with shift-based scheduling. 

• Evenings, weekends, and holiday shifts may be required. 

• Minimal local travel (e.g., clinics, pharmacies, service providers). 

ACKNOWLEDGMENT & DISCLAIMER 

This job description reflects the essential functions and scope of the Client Support Specialist role. 

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive list of all duties or responsibilities that may be required. Duties may change at any time provided they remain consistent with the position’s non-clinical scope, classification, training, and applicable law. 

Employees are required to stop and escalate when duties exceed scope or require licensed judgment.