Intake Specialist in Red Bluff, California at Poor And The Homeless Tehama County Coalition

Intake Specialist Job Description
Job Title: Intake Specialist
Department: Programs / Client Services
Reports To: Program Supervisor or Case Management Supervisor
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Pay range: $20-25.00 per hour

Position Summary
The Intake Specialist serves as the first point of contact for individuals and families seeking services. This position is responsible for conducting client intakes, determining eligibility for programs, gathering and entering client information, completing assessments, and connecting clients with appropriate resources, case management, housing services, and community supports. The Intake Specialist provides compassionate, trauma-informed, and client-centered service while maintaining accurate records and ensuring compliance with program requirements.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities
• Welcome and engage clients in a professional, respectful, and culturally responsive manner.
• Complete intake interviews for the purpose of gathering demographic, household, income, housing, and service-related information.
• Complete program eligibility screenings and assessments in accordance with agency and funding requirements.
• Assist clients in completing required applications, releases of information, and program documentation.
• Enter, maintain, and update client records in HMIS and other applicable databases.
• Assess client needs and provide information, referrals, and linkages to internal and external resources.
• Coordinate referrals to case managers, homeless advocates, housing programs, behavioral health services, employment services, benefits assistance, and other community supports.
• Explain program policies, procedures, participant rights, and responsibilities.
• Schedule appointments and maintain communication with clients regarding program participation.
• Maintain confidentiality of client information and comply with all HIPAA, HMIS, and agency requirements.
• Monitor intake documentation to ensure completeness, accuracy, and compliance with funding source requirements.
• Assist with outreach and engagement activities as assigned.
• Participate in case conferencing, staff meetings, trainings, and program planning activities.
• Provide crisis intervention and de-escalation support when appropriate.
• Maintain professional relationships with community partners and service providers.
• Track and report intake data and program outcomes as required.
• Support clients with obtaining identification documents, benefits, housing resources, and other needed services.
• Maintain a safe, welcoming, and organized reception and intake environment.
• Perform administrative duties related to client services, including filing, copying, scanning, correspondence, and record management.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
• Knowledge of homelessness, poverty, housing instability, and community resources.
• Understanding of trauma-informed care, motivational interviewing, and client-centered service delivery.
• Ability to establish rapport with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
• Strong interviewing, communication, and active listening skills.
• Ability to manage confidential information with discretion.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and data management systems.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and manage multiple responsibilities in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to remain calm and professional during crisis situations.

Minimum Qualifications
• High school diploma or GED required.
• Associate degree in Human Services, Social Work, Psychology, or a related field preferred.
• Experience working with homeless, low-income, vulnerable, or underserved populations preferred.
• Experience with HMIS or similar client database systems preferred.
• Valid California driver's license, reliable transportation, and insurability may be required.

Physical Requirements
• Ability to sit, stand, walk, bend, reach, and lift up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to operate standard office equipment.
• Ability to travel locally as required.

Working Conditions
• Office, shelter, navigation center, and community-based environments.
• Frequent interaction with individuals experiencing homelessness, mental health challenges, substance use disorders, and other barriers to stability.
• Occasional evening or weekend work may be required.

Equal Employment Opportunity
The organization is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and maintaining a workplace free from discrimination and harassment.