Information & Referral Specialist (Homeless Program)

City of Miami•City of Miami, FL

10d

About The Position

Provides specialized field-based intake, assessment, eligibility determination, and referral services supporting the City of Miami’s Homeless Outreach and service navigation operations. Conducts comprehensive assessments of individuals and families experiencing homelessness, reviews documentation, verifies eligibility, determines appropriate shelter, diversion, or housing pathways, and connects clients with federal, state, local, and community-based service providers. The role requires independent judgment and establishing and maintaining relationships with relevant agencies. Serves as the functional lead on an outreach team and makes final determinations regarding eligibility, referrals, and placement decisions. Provides functional guidance to Information & Referral Aides and other support staff but does not exercise formal supervisory authority unless otherwise designated. Maintains accurate client information and documentation in HMIS and other designated systems, following applicable data quality, reporting, confidentiality, funding, and program requirements. The position may be subject to grant provisions and continued grant funding. Employees must be available to work various shifts, including nights, holidays, and weekends. A Level II background screening is required, and screening through the Florida Clearinghouse may also apply.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent and two years of experience in public-facing clerical support roles or field-based community engagement, or an equivalent combination of education beyond high school and experience beyond the two-year experience requirement.
Valid driver's license from any state equivalent to a Florida Class E may be used at application; a Florida Class E or higher driver's license is required at appointment and must remain valid throughout employment.
Ability to work various shifts, including nights, holidays, and weekends.
Must undergo a Level II background screening; may also be subject to screening through the Florida Clearinghouse.
Applicants must submit required proof of education and a valid driver's license with the employment application.

Nice To Haves

Experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness or other vulnerable or underserved populations is preferred.
Experience in human services or healthcare support is desirable.

Responsibilities

Conduct outreach and engagement with individuals and families experiencing homelessness in field and community settings.
Conduct comprehensive assessments and determine appropriate shelter, diversion, or housing pathways.
Make final determinations regarding eligibility, service referrals, and placement decisions as the functional lead on an outreach team.
Identify service resources aligned with clients’ assessed needs and program requirements.
Develop and maintain a network of supportive service resources for accurate and timely referrals.
Explain eligibility requirements, provide service navigation guidance, and outline referral or placement next steps.
Provide functional guidance to Information & Referral Aides and other support staff on assessment procedures, documentation standards, and referral processes.
Review, verify, and approve documentation for compliance with eligibility criteria, funding requirements, and data quality standards.
Enter, review, validate, and maintain accurate and timely client data in HMIS and other designated systems, following data quality, reporting, and confidentiality standards.
Submit and authorize Coordinated Entry referrals and housing documentation in accordance with Miami-Dade County Homeless Trust policies.
Operate computers, tablets, radios, and mobile devices during field operations.
Prepare assessment summaries, referral documentation, and reports required for program performance and monitoring.
Establish and maintain contacts with appropriate agencies.
Perform related work as required.