Community & Workforce Specialist I - Community Assistance Division

Pima County • Tucson, AZ

2d • $20 - $27 • Hybrid

About The Position

The Community and Workforce Specialist I plays a vital role in supporting residents seeking homelessness prevention resources, emergency assistance, Emergency Eviction Legal Services (EELS), and workforce‑related support. These multiple positions are part of the Homelessness Prevention Hub, which will replace the former Community Action Agency (CAA) hotline and begin receiving EELS program calls. The Specialist serves as the first point of contact for community members in crisis, conducting eligibility pre‑screening, providing resource navigation, completing referrals, and ensuring compassionate, timely service. This role requires strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate clearly and compassionately with individuals in crisis or experiencing housing instability. Specialists must be comfortable problem‑solving, asking clarifying questions, and navigating unfamiliar client situations, while maintaining professionalism and empathy. The position benefits from knowledge of community resources such as financial assistance, employment programs, tenant support, and workforce development services, as well as experience with conflict resolution, de‑escalation, or trauma‑informed care approaches. Success in this role also requires the ability to work collaboratively in a fast‑paced team environment and adapt to evolving program needs as the Hub continues to grow.

Requirements

• Associate’s degree from an accredited college, university or technical school in management, public or business administration or a field related as determined by the department head at the time of recruitment. (Relevant experience and/or education from an accredited college or university may be substituted.)
• One year of experience with Pima County as a Community & Workforce Technician I or II or similar Pima County position, as determined by the department head at the time of recruitment.
• Qualifying education and experience must be clearly documented in the "Education" and "Work Experience" sections of the application. Do not substitute a resume for your application or write "see resume" on your application.
• Valid driver license is required at time of application.
• Valid AZ driver license is required at time of appointment.
• The successful applicant will be subject to a 39-month DOT Motor Vehicle Record review to determine applicant’s suitability to operate county vehicles in accordance with Pima County administrative procedures.
• Failure to obtain and maintain the required licenses and certifications shall be grounds for termination.
• Any offer of employment resulting from this recruitment is contingent upon Fleet Services’ review and approval of the candidate’s driving record.
• The County requires pre-employment background checks.
• Successful candidates will receive a post-offer, pre-employment background screening to include verification of work history, education, and criminal conviction history.
• A prior criminal conviction will not automatically disqualify a candidate from employment with the County.
• Some positions may require completion of a satisfactory personal background investigation by the court or law enforcement agencies, due to the need for access to County Attorney and Court facilities, records, and communication systems.

Nice To Haves

• Minimum one (1) year experience handling high‑volume call centers, helplines, or client‑facing phone support lines.
• Experience with/knowledge of local housing resources, emergency assistance programs, utility assistance, and basic eligibility requirements.
• Experience conducting screenings, collect information, and accurately enter case notes or data into client management systems.
• Experience navigating client databases and scheduling tools.
• Minimum one (1) year experience working with diverse populations, including individuals with disabilities, seniors, veterans, or families in crisis.
• Experience organizing and managing multiple tasks (scheduling, documentation, follow‑up, referrals).
• Bilingual (English/Spanish).

Responsibilities

• Participates in the day-to-day operational and support activities of a functional program or work unit within the Community & Workforce Development Department
• Provides direct services urgently and compassionately to Community & Workforce Development clients, which may include working with clients via phone, email, online, or in person
• Assesses the needs of community members and provides guidance on appropriate resources based on individual needs
• Matches qualified candidates with resources, coaching, or support related to employment, education, or financial assistance
• Represents the program or work unit at community events and in meetings with County personnel and/or community partners
• Provides administrative and other support essential to the completion of program or work unit objectives
• Communicates with and participates in program activities in coordination with other County departments and community partners
• Provides input to management in the development of program goals and objectives
• Manages and maintains records of program participants and their progress
• Responsible for other duties as assigned in support of the overall goals and functions of both the Community & Workforce Development Department and Pima County

Benefits

• competitive salaries
• generous health insurance coverage
• retirement plans
• flexible work schedules
• a generous family leave policy
• wellness programs
• opportunities for professional advancement through training programs, workshops, and educational reimbursement programs
• County-wide employee recognition program

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree