Family Housing Intake Specialist

CAREER OPPORTUNITY

Agate Housing and Services is a forward-thinking nonprofit organization dedicated to eradicating homelessness and alleviating hunger through proactive measures and advocacy. Our mission is pursued by delivering emergency assistance, shelter, and housing initiatives for individuals and families. We engage with those facing homelessness at their point of need and support them on their path to secure, stable housing and improved well-being. We uphold the belief that housing is a fundamental human right.

Core Values of Agate Housing and Services:

Integrity: Upholding ethical standards consistently, even when faced with challenges.

Equity: Challenging existing norms by critically assessing and transforming practices to better serve those most affected by homelessness and hunger.

Humanity: Recognizing the collective impact of these issues on our community, our staff, and those we assist, and fostering relationships built on trust and understanding.

Creativity: Addressing community needs with innovative and tailored solutions.

Agate Housing and Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer/AAE, providing competitive compensation and outstanding benefits, including medical coverage, employer-paid dental and life insurance, short-term disability, four weeks of paid time off in the first year, and a 401k retirement plan with employer matching.

POSITION DESCRIPTION

Title: Family Housing Intake Specialist

Reports To: Family Housing Program Manager

Schedule: Monday to Friday, Flexible Daytime Hours

Compensation: $22.85 - $24.35 per hour

Classification: Hourly, Non-exempt, 40 Hours/Week

Union Representation: This role is represented by the AFSCME Local 999

The Housing Programs Department at Agate serves households facing or at risk of homelessness in the local area. Our offerings include Prevention, Diversion, Coordinated Entry Assessments, Fast Track, Rapid Rehousing, and Long-term Supportive Housing for families with children and individuals without children. By providing a range of services tailored to various needs, we aim to assist each household in achieving stability and self-sufficiency.

The primary responsibility of the Family Housing Intake Specialist is to serve as the main liaison with the Coordinated Entry System. This role involves conducting intake assessments with families and individuals referred to Agate's Rapid Rehousing and Fast Track programs. The specialist will evaluate eligibility and connect new referrals with designated case managers to facilitate the transition to permanent housing. This position requires the cultivation and maintenance of strong, collaborative relationships with case managers, program managers, and housing locators.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Collaborate with the Coordinated Entry in the local area to receive referrals for families and individuals experiencing homelessness.
• Conduct intake appointments with families referred to the Rapid Rehousing program.
• Assess eligibility for families and process referrals through the Coordinated Entry System.
• Enroll clients in the Family Rapid Rehousing program and ensure all intake documentation is uploaded into the internal database, including HMIS entry paperwork.
• Coordinate with Rapid Rehousing Managers to match clients with case managers based on their caseloads.
• Educate clients on tenant rights and responsibilities, financial management, and available affordable housing options.
• Work collaboratively with agency staff and local shelter personnel to address client needs.
• Manage various funding sources to assist clients while maintaining accurate expenditure records.
• Document case notes, data collection, and other necessary paperwork for assigned clients promptly.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

This position involves approximately 50% direct client interaction and 50% indirect client-related tasks, including documentation, communication with partners, preparation for client meetings, and participation in training and community events.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

This role is primarily sedentary, involving sitting for extended periods with occasional walking. The position may require exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally. The specialist must be able to conduct home visits and attend apartment showings, which may require navigating stairs.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Possession of a valid Driver's License and successful completion of a DHS NetStudy 2.0 background check, along with a driving record check.

Successful candidates will demonstrate the following skills and attributes:

• Dedication to the mission and values of Agate Housing and Services in combating homelessness and hunger.
• Commitment to fostering an anti-racist culture within the organization and the wider community.
• Belief in the potential of every household to achieve housing stability.
• Adherence to harm reduction and housing-first principles.
• Ability to engage respectfully with clients, colleagues, and stakeholders from diverse backgrounds.
• Skill in quickly establishing rapport with individuals in crisis through trauma-informed, client-centered, and strengths-based approaches.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, ensuring timely and accurate documentation and efficient use of technology.

Relevant experience that equips candidates with the necessary skills and perspectives may include:

• Personal experience with homelessness.
• Experience working, interning, or volunteering with individuals facing homelessness.
• A degree in a relevant field such as Social Work, Human Services, or Family Studies.

We encourage individuals with lived experience to apply. However, candidates who have received services from Agate Housing and Services within the past two years are ineligible for employment.

This position requires the use of a personal vehicle for agency-related activities, with a minimum liability insurance coverage of $100,000 per person and $300,000 per occurrence. In addition to background checks, candidates must possess a valid Driver's License and pass a driving record assessment.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Two years of experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness.
• Proficiency in languages spoken by our clients (e.g., Spanish, Amharic, Oromo, Somali, ASL).
• Highly organized with a keen attention to detail and familiarity with Client Track.

REFERRAL BONUS PROGRAM

If you know someone who would be a great fit for a position at our organization, Agate Housing and Services offers a referral bonus to employees who recommend qualified candidates for current openings.

APPLICATION PROCESS

To apply for this position, please visit our website and select the relevant opening. Submit your information under "Apply Now" to access the full application, where you can upload your resume and cover letter. If you have previously created an account to apply for a position at Agate Housing and Services, please log in to your account before applying for another position.

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Qualified candidates will be contacted for interviews as applications are reviewed. No phone calls, please.

Agate Housing and Services is committed to being an equal opportunity workplace and strives to create a diverse and inclusive environment where all individuals are treated with dignity and respect. Employees actively participate in various committees that empower staff to shape the future of our agency.

Agate Housing and Services is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from individuals of color, indigenous people, persons with disabilities, and LGBTQ+ individuals.