Engagement Specialist I

CCSWW•Seattle, WA

2d•Onsite

About The Position

Catholic Housing Services (CHS) is dedicated to ensuring everyone has a safe and affordable place to call home. CHS manages affordable housing programs for low-income individuals and families, currently overseeing 2,100 units across 50 buildings in Western Washington. They offer supportive services to various populations, including those who have experienced homelessness, low-income seniors, farm worker families, and individuals with special physical and mental needs. In partnership with Catholic Community Services, CHS provides permanent supportive housing in King County. The Josephinum, a 221-unit historic building in Downtown Seattle's Belltown neighborhood, offers studio and one-bedroom apartments and supportive services to formerly homeless individuals. The building also houses Christ our Hope Catholic Church and other social service programs.

Requirements

One-year experience working in a social service and/or customer service role.
Experience or knowledge of mental illness, substance use disorders, and/or homeless services.
Knowledge and experience with crisis intervention.
Commitment to harm reduction and housing first program model.
Ability to work both independently and as a member of a team.
Ability to commit to developing and safekeeping a workplace that values and supports a culturally diverse work environment.
Experience with Microsoft office suite of programs and related databases.
Must have a reliable means of communication (e.g. phone, voicemail service, email, etc.) at all times in which to be reached.
Ability to adapt and respond to different people and situations through a trauma informed lens.
Support and uphold the mission, beliefs and values of the Coordinated Care Agency and the Archdiocesan Housing Authority.
Support and contribute to a creative, collaborative and respectful environment that promotes teamwork.
Demonstrates the necessary attitudes, knowledge and skills to deliver culturally competent services and work effectively in multi-cultural situations.
Criminal history background checks are required prior to employment.
Ability to obtain and maintain food handler’s permit within 30 days of employment.

Nice To Haves

Previous experience working with people experiencing housing instability.
Lived experience with poverty, housing instability, mental health, and/or substance use disorders.
College level classes toward degree in Social Service or related field.
Previous work experience in programs that work with clients with high support needs.
CPR/First Aid training.
Ability to speak secondary language that is commonly spoken by clients.

Responsibilities

Provide direct service to clients, including crisis intervention and advocacy.
Coordinate with other social service agency workers to meet clients' immediate needs.
Model interpersonal and living skills for clients.
Enforce building and program rules.
Maintain a safe and comfortable program environment.
Assist janitorial and maintenance staff as needed.
Work independently and as part of a team during shifts.
Attend required in-person agency meetings.
Register new clients, assess their needs, and maintain client records in databases.
Explain and implement policies and procedures.
Maintain an accurate client count throughout shifts.
Dispense personal belongings and supplies to clients.
Complete frequent scheduled checks of units, the building, and grounds.
Engage outside professionals when appropriate.
Manage front desk and site security, including welcoming visitors, receiving donations, sorting mail, monitoring security, and sanitizing client belongings.
Perform routine walkthroughs of the facility to engage with clients and ensure safety.
Process messages and maintain accurate client tracking records.
Answer phones and provide information about services.
Lead activities and/or groups.
Assist with serving and preparing meals, snacks, and beverages.
Assist in hosting events for clients and the public.
Assist clients with move-in and move-out processes.
Supervise volunteers on shift and provide support to off-site volunteers.
Attend staff meetings, workshops, retreats, and in-service classes.
Maintain accurate records of hours worked and approve timecards.
Contribute to a positive, team-oriented work environment.
Maintain cleanliness and organization in the program.
Assist with client and program laundry as needed.
Inform supervisors of facilities and client-related issues.
Perform other job-related duties as assigned.