Wisconsin - Coordinated Entry Support Specialist

Job Title: Coordinated Entry Support Specialist Reports to: HMIS Manager

Job Class: Coordinated Entry

Status: Full Time, Exempt Location: Milwaukee, Wisconsin

POSITION SUMMARY

Under the direction of the HMIS Manager, and in cooperation with the Coordinated Entry Manager and other ICA team members, the Coordinated Entry Intake Specialist will complete assessments, provide supportive services, and coordinate appropriate housing and service referrals. The CE Intake Specialist will also work in partnership with local agencies to facilitate positive outcomes for individuals experiencing homelessness.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Coordinated Entry Assessment and Support Services

• Conduct in-person coordinated entry screening and assessment with clients seeking housing assistance at The Beacon Day Resource Center.

• Use progressive engagement, creative problem-solving skills, and motivational interviewing to complete triage, diversion, and Coordinated Entry intakes.

• Seek out housing resources that meet the needs of individual clients.

• Promote access and connection to mainstream resources.

• Coordinate with housing specialists at homeless service partner agencies.

• Act as advocate for clients experiencing housing issues.

• Attend community meetings to answer questions and concerns, conduct review of current HMIS procedures, and recommend adjustments as needed.

• Attend regularly scheduled client case conferences to review and monitor progress of cases already assigned.

• Proactively help to establish community-wide referral networks for outreach, mental health, healthcare, benefits, and other supportive services for program participants.

• Assist the CE Manager to educate, network, and represent HMIS CE activities with/to local agencies and stakeholders.

• Participate as a member of various committees and/or community groups within the homeless services Continuum of Care.

• Use company vehicle, provide transportation if other means are not available.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

Data Entry, Record-Keeping and Case Notes

• Enter data into the designated Homeless Management Information System (HMIS) with accuracy.

• Refer clients to the community housing priority list maintained in the HMIS.

• Assist the CE Manager to maintain the community housing priority list.

• Maintain regular communication with clients referred to the housing priority list to keep client information updated in HMIS.

• Document or obtain documentation of past medical, psychiatric, homeless, and social history as it pertains to Permanent Support Housing or other housing eligibility criteria.

• Maintain current, accurate, and comprehensive information in each record to include all activities, contacts, and communication on behalf of individual served.

• Maintain case notes and document contact with clients in a timely manner.

• Ensure accuracy, completeness, and confidentiality of client records.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS

Experience and Education

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university or combined equivalent of education and experience (Social Work, Public Health, Counseling, or a closely related field)

• Minimum of two years of paid experience or its equivalent providing direct services, service coordination, or case management

• Minimum of two years of paid experience in a position with a high degree of independence and responsibility

Required Background/Knowledge

• Knowledge of basic office equipment and technology; excellent computer skills

• Database software

• Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, etc.)

• Project management principles

• Good written and verbal communication skills

• Proficient use of inter- and intra-office communication tools such as email, video conferencing, teleconferencing, GoToMeeting, and similar tools

Preferred Background/Knowledge

• Three years of work experience in a diverse and multi-cultural environment specifically with individuals in programs that address the basic mental health, physical health, educational, cultural, and developmental needs of people experiencing homelessness

• Experience in HMIS software, especially with Bitfocus Clarity HMIS

Demonstrated Skills

• Ability to gather data, complete assessments using motivational interviewing and compassion

• Attention to detail and accuracy

• Use of discretion in handling confidential matters

• Ability to be supportive and provide guidance in a non-judgmental manner

• Interact tactfully, diplomatically, and objectively with consumers and the public

• Work and make sound decisions independently daily

• Ability to learn quickly, handle multiple tasks simultaneously, anticipate and meet established deadlines, and regularly deliver high quality services in a deadline-driven environment

• Interact one-on-one with individuals who may have serious and persistent mental illness and/or substance abuse disorder in various settings

• Ability to work effectively and professionally with people from diverse backgrounds and cultures

• Reliable team player and collaborator with a positive attitude

Physical Requirements

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to successfully perform the essential functions.

• Standing – Approximately less than 1/3 of on-the-job time

• Walking – Approximately less than 1/3 of on-the-job time

• Sitting – Approximately greater than 2/3 of on-the-job time

• Reaching with hands and arms – Approximately between 1/3 and 2/3 of on-the-job time

• Stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling – Approximately less than 1/3 of on-the-job time

• Talking or hearing – Approximately greater than 2/3 of on-the-job time

• Weight lifted/force exerted – An average of approximately up to 10 pounds, non-continuously

• Physical requirements listed are primarily applied to ability to lift and move paper supply, files, etc.

• Vision – Close vision (clear vision at 20 inches or less)

• Driving – Approximately less than 1/3 of on-the-job time

Other Requirements

• A valid driver’s license and proof of current automobile insurance

Travel/Work Schedule

• Occasional out-of-state travel for professional conferences/training (generally less than one week for each occurrence)

• Occasional local or in-state travel for community meetings or onsite CES support

• Schedule may fluctuate based on workload

Expense Reimbursement

• Direct and necessary expenses related to required job-related activities are eligible for reimbursement. The incumbent is responsible for the timely request and submission of complete and accurate reimbursement documentation and form(s). Refer to the Personnel Policies & Practices for full guidelines.