Information & Referral Specialist

CAPECO Community Action Program of East Central Oregon•Pendleton, OR

4d•Onsite

About The Position

CAPECO is seeking an Information and Referral Specialist to serve as the initial point of contact for people visiting or calling the agency. The role supports clients seeking assistance through agency services and programs by answering inquiries, helping individuals and families obtain information and materials, directing them to appropriate departments, scheduling appointments, collecting data, and making referrals. It also provides clerical and office support. This is a customer-facing position requiring strong customer service, positive relationship-building, and the ability to work with a diverse population. The position is regular full-time, non-exempt, and located in Pendleton. It is supervised by the Asset Director. Bilingual English/Spanish ability is preferred and qualifies for a 6% differential when the employee is proficient in reading, writing, listening, and speaking both languages.

Requirements

An associate degree in a related field, or equivalent education, training, and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities; the posting states the associate degree may be substituted for two years of equivalent education, training, and experience.
A high level of tolerance and understanding for individuals and families who may be in crisis or experiencing mental health concerns or substance abuse.
Strong organizational skills.
Ability to maintain agency and client confidentiality.
Excellent communication, interpersonal, and customer service skills, and legible handwriting.
Computer experience and working knowledge of Microsoft Word and Excel.
Ability to pass a criminal history background investigation; a conviction does not necessarily disqualify an applicant.
Ability to pass the required pre-employment drug screening, which includes marijuana screening.
Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid driver's license and an insurable driving record.
Ability to travel within the service area using a personal vehicle when required.

Nice To Haves

Bilingual English/Spanish proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking; this is preferred and qualifies for a 6% bilingual differential.

Responsibilities

Greet and assist the public and staff in person, by email, and by phone.
Serve as the initial point of contact for individuals and households seeking assistance and services.
Conduct participant intakes and provide application assistance as needed.
Take accurate, detailed messages and communicate them promptly to appropriate staff by email, phone message, Microsoft Teams, or in person.
Assess information from callers, research their needs, and refer them to appropriate resources.
Distribute information pamphlets and provide current information about general eligibility requirements for assistance programs.
Maintain an up-to-date resource directory by coordinating with area partners and using online resources.
Schedule office and in-home appointments and explain what households should bring.
Open and route incoming mail, prepare outgoing mail, and deliver it to the Post Office each afternoon.
Maintain suggested office-supply lists; process supply, equipment, and furniture requisitions; record ordered supplies against appropriate grants; and ensure supplies reach the appropriate staff or department.
Maintain lists and logs based on usage and requests.
Enter client information into state and agency databases.
Maintain inventory records for energy education supplies and reorder as needed.
Prepare reports and correspondence and provide clerical support to program staff.
Participate in agency and community workgroups, committees, and trainings as needed.
Assist with CAPECO-sponsored events.
Perform other duties as assigned.