Intake Specialist (FT) - Housing & Essential Needs

• Answer the main program phones receiving over 3,000 calls a month professionally and with compassion for the client’s situation.
• Verify client enrollment through the DSHS Benefit Verification System.
• Schedule nearly 1,000 appointments a month clients for an assessment with one of the Prevention Coordinators following specific program policies and procedures.
• Manage the schedule for eight Coordinators in six offices throughout King County.
• Research and referral of client resources. Inquiries from Public

• Follow communication procedures as defined by HIPPA and agency standards on proper handling of protected information.
• Troubleshooting client issues with clients, landlords, other social service agencies, DSHS, and family/friends of clients.
• Assist walk-in clients with scheduling questions, picking up of Essential Needs items, dropping off paperwork and answering basic questions about the program.

• Ensure client records are kept in accordance with agency and program standards.
• Input client level data on a regular basis into various data collection systems following specific data entry policies and procedures.
• Administration work as assigned which may include updating databases, maintaining spreadsheets, organizing and archiving client files, writing meeting minute notes, etc.

• The Intake Specialists also assist with distributing a high volume of high value transportation assistance items, such as orca LIFT cards valued at $54 each, to clients during the weekly bank.
• Assist with unloading and organizing of the storage room of essential need items.
• Serve clients at the Essential Needs bank by distributing transportation assistance and hygiene and cleaning items.
• Check database to make sure client is eligible for assistance and follow specific documentation procedures insuring accuracy and completeness. 

• Attend trainings required of employees as scheduled.
• Participate as team member in staff and supervisory meetings as required.
• Contribute to and support a positive, team-oriented, culturally-diverse work environment.
• Perform other job-related duties as assigned.
• Observe/follow guidelines on confidentiality rights of clients and respect their privacy.
• Maintain accurate record of hours worked and turn in timesheets on schedule.

• Associates degree in social services or a related field, or commensurate experience in social services.
• Understanding of problems homeless people often face, including alcohol and drug abuse, mental illness, domestic violence, and long-term homelessness.
• Excellent written and oral communication.
• Excellent office computer skills and phone skills.
• Applicant must successfully pass required background checks prior to an offer of employment.
• Ability to work independently in addition to working as a member of a team.
• Demonstrates the necessary attitudes, knowledge and skills to deliver culturally competent services and work effectively in multi-cultural situations.
• Support and uphold the mission, beliefs and values of Catholic Community Services and Catholic Housing Services.
• Support and contribute to a creative, collaborative and respectful environment that promotes teamwork.
• Criminal history background checks are required prior to employment.

• Customer service experience in call center setting.
• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Social Work or a related field.
• Experience providing information and referral.
• Fluency in second language that is spoken by a substantial number of HEN recipients.

Note to Internal Candidates: HR reviews internal compensation and determines any increase based on their experience and also agency internal equity factors. Please let us know if you need special accommodations to apply or interview for this position.