Problem Solving Specialist

Mission Action • San Francisco, CA

2d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Problem Solving Specialist will provide one-on-one support, assistance, and resources to individuals experiencing homelessness. The Specialist will work closely with the Licensed Care Coordinator and Housing Navigators to provide coordinated assessment and services to clients. The position will work primarily out of the Access Point based in the Mission and will be asked to visit other Mission Action sites as needed. Problem Solving provides opportunities to prevent people from entering the Homelessness Response System and to redirect people who can resolve their homelessness without the need for ongoing support. It is an approach that empowers households facing a housing crisis to explore and identify possible solutions outside of the Homelessness Response System (i.e. solutions that do not rely on shelter or housing resources).

Requirements

• At least 2 years of direct service experience in case management, counseling, or a similar field.
• Demonstrated knowledge/experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness.
• Experience with crisis intervention, establishing boundaries, conflict resolution, and de-escalation.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to work both independently and as a member of a multi-disciplinary team.
• Proficiency with basic computer programs including Microsoft Word, Outlook, and Excel.
• An understanding of intersectionality and the needs of communities impacted by homelessness in San Francisco, particularly in the Mission District.
• A strong commitment to housing justice, as well as inclusive and multi-cultural programming.

Nice To Haves

• Bilingual (written and oral) in Spanish preferred.
• Knowledge of the ONE System preferred.

Responsibilities

• Screen and assess single adults experiencing homelessness using standardized tools, prioritization, and referral protocols.
• Using a collaborative, client-centered, and trauma-informed approach, support single adults in avoiding entry to shelter or the experience of street homelessness by identifying creative solutions to exiting homelessness.
• Analyze information, problems, situations, and procedures in order to define any barriers to a Problem Solving resolution.
• Engage participants in problem solving conversations to assess for additional resources available within the participant’s own network.
• Recognizing each service seeker’s unique situation, support individuals to look for creative solutions that can be quickly implemented.
• Provide crisis intervention assistance as needed.
• Based on the client assessment and using the ONE System, make prioritized referrals into housing programs and internal DSCS Housing Navigation services.
• Conduct immediate and long-term follow-up to ascertain the effectiveness of Problem Solving activities.
• Keep accurate records and enter required data in ONE System.
• Provide professional, accessible, and culturally relevant support, advocacy, and information to program participants.
• Work within and promote the integrated services team model in an environment dedicated to harm reduction, recovery, and wellness.
• Serve as liaison to community-based and governmental service partners as requested.
• Participate in staff training, staff meetings, and development activities as directed.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
• Conduct business in accordance with the Mission Action Employee Handbook, exercising sound judgment and serving the best interests of the agency and the community.
• Commit yourself to treating each community member with respect and dignity.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• medical
• dental
• vision
• long-term disability
• life insurance
• flexible spending account
• commuter benefits
• paid holiday
• paid sick leave
• generous vacation with Summer Recess and Winter Recess
• 401(K) with employer matching

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed