Intake Specialist

Guest House of Milwaukee•Milwaukee, WI

18h•Onsite

About The Position

Guest House of Milwaukee, the largest housing program provider in Wisconsin, has been dedicated to addressing homelessness since 1982. Originally a short-term emergency shelter, we now offer a comprehensive range of onsite and community-based programs tailored to the evolving needs of individuals facing housing insecurity. As we enter an exciting growth phase, our commitment to client-centered solutions remains steadfast. With over 40 years of experience, our dedicated staff and partners work to create lasting change for our most vulnerable community members. We envision a Greater Milwaukee that prioritizes care and tackles the root causes of homelessness. The Intake Specialist is responsible for providing initial case management support to “cot” clients — individuals who have not yet been formally assigned to an Internal Case Manager. This position serves as the first point of engagement for guests beginning the case management process and supports the transition into full case management services. The Intake Specialist performs early-stage assessments, documentation, and service coordination tasks that mirror the initial functions of the Internal Case Manager role. This position also serves as a backup support to Internal Case Managers as needed. This role is designed as an entry-level pathway into Case Management and requires an Associate’s degree (or active pursuit of) in Human Services, Social Work, Psychology, or related field required as a condition of continued employment and advancement.

Requirements

Familiarity with issues related to homelessness, mental illness, and substance use
Strong interpersonal and engagement skills
Ability to build trust and rapport with clients
Strong organizational and documentation skills
Ability to manage multiple priorities and work independently
Ability to communicate clearly, both verbally and in writing
Computer proficiency (Microsoft Word, Outlook, and data entry systems)
Ability to maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries
High School Diploma or GED required
Minimum of one (1) year of experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness required
Associate’s degree (or active pursuit) in Human Services, Social Work, Psychology, or related field required
Training in crisis intervention and the ability to independently manage high-risk situations.
City of Milwaukee residency required.
Maintain a valid Wisconsin driver license, reliable transportation, and vehicle insurance in compliance with agency requirements.

Nice To Haves

Training in Motivational Interviewing or other client-centered practices preferred.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, case management software (e.g., Mission Tracker, Clarity), and electronic health record (EHR) systems.
First Aid and CPR certification a plus.

Responsibilities

Report daily openings of shelter space and participate in daily shelter call checking for eligibility.
Contact clients who have been identified on the shelter call to be admitted to an open shelter space.
Engage newly identified “cot” clients who have not yet been assigned a Case Manager
Conduct initial client interviews and gather eligibility and identifying documentation
Administer basic assessments to determine immediate needs and service priorities
Provide orientation to case management services and program expectations
Develop preliminary service plans to stabilize clients until assigned to a Case Manager
Positively and respectfully engage with clients to support goal identification and service connection
Ensure all client records are properly organized and documented according to program and funding requirements
Accurately enter client data into Gates, agency databases, and Mission Tracker in a timely manner
Maintain clear, complete, and professional case notes
Assist clients with referrals to internal and external resources including employment, benefits, housing readiness, behavioral health, and other supportive services
Coordinate with shelter staff, case managers, and other departments to ensure continuity of care
Support smooth transition of clients from Intake Specialist to assigned Internal Case Manager
Serve as backup support to Internal Case Managers as assigned
Assist with group meetings, workshops, and client education activities
Participate in efforts to improve intake processes and case management workflows
Attend required staff meetings, trainings, and case conferences
Perform other related duties and special projects as assigned