Intake Specialist - Bilingual

Just-Compassion-of-East-Washington-Count; Portland (OR); On-site; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision insurance

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

IRA retirement plan

PTO and paid sick time

Paid leave benefits (OFLA/FMLA)

Job summary

Just Compassion of East Washington County is seeking an Intake Specialist to support the Housing-Related Social Needs (HRSN) program. You will conduct intake screenings, coordinate rental and utility assistance payments, and ensure smooth transitions to case management, all while maintaining accurate, confidential records.

The role requires attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and a compassionate, trauma-informed approach to client engagement across diverse populations.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required; associate or bachelor’s degree preferred in social services or related field.
• Experience in intake coordination, housing programs, social services, or related environments is preferred.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail are essential.
• Proficiency with computer systems and standard office software; ability to maintain confidentiality.

Responsibilities

• Conduct intake screenings to determine eligibility for the HRSN program based on guidelines and funding.
• Collect and review required documentation such as identification and proof of income.
• Explain program services, expectations, and next steps in a clear, supportive manner.
• Maintain accurate and confidential records in the program database.
• Coordinate rental and utility assistance payments per program policies.
• Facilitate transition of enrolled participants to the case management team and transfer records.

Skills

Attention to detail

Data entry

Verbal and written communication

Education

High school diploma or GED

Associate or bachelor’s degree in social services or related field preferred

Tools

Microsoft Office

Google Workspace

Job description

Position Summary

The Intake Specialist for the HRSN (Housing-Related Social Needs) Program plays a vital role in helping individuals secure stable housing by conducting intake screenings, facilitating initial rent payments, and ensuring a seamless transition into case management. This position requires strong attention to detail, financial coordination skills, and a compassionate, trauma-informed approach to client engagement.

Essential Duties

• Supports the HRSN (Housing-Related Social Needs) Program by conducting intake screenings, coordinating rental and utility assistance payments, and ensuring accurate documentation of client services.
• Facilitates the initial engagement process for program participants and supports their transition to case management services.
• Ensures compliance with program requirements, financial documentation standards, and confidentiality policies.

Job Functions

• Conduct intake screenings to determine eligibility for the HRSN program based on program guidelines and funding requirements.
• Collect and review required documentation including identification, proof of income, and other eligibility materials.
• Explain program services, expectations, and next steps to potential participants in a clear and supportive manner.
• Maintain accurate and confidential records of client information in the program database.
• Coordinate rental assistance payments in accordance with program policies and procedures.
• Process utility assistance payments for eligible program participants.
• Maintain accurate financial records of payments issued and documentation required for financial tracking and reporting.
• Provide payment confirmations or documentation to clients, landlords, or partners as appropriate.
• Facilitate the transition of enrolled participants to the assigned case management team.
• Ensure client documentation, intake notes, and financial information are accurately transferred to case management staff.
• Communicate relevant client needs or concerns to case managers to support coordinated service delivery.
• Maintain accurate data entry related to client intake, payments, and program participation.
• Assist with preparation of program documentation and reports required for program oversight or funding compliance.
• Ensure records meet applicable program, Medicaid, county, or grant reporting standards.
• Provide trauma-informed and client-centered support to individuals entering the program.
• Serve as a primary point of contact during the intake process to answer questions and provide guidance.
• Promote equitable access to services consistent with housing-first and low-barrier service principles.
• Perform additional duties as assigned in support of program operations.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required; associate or bachelor’s degree in social services, human services, public administration, or a related field preferred.
• Experience working in intake coordination, housing programs, social services, or related service environments preferred.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Experience handling financial documentation or payment coordination is preferred.
• Ability to work effectively with diverse populations including individuals experiencing homelessness or housing instability.
• Proficiency with computer systems, databases, and standard office software such as Microsoft Office or Google Workspace.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive client information appropriately.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel locally if required.
• Bilingual skills (Spanish, Russian, or other languages commonly spoken by participants) preferred.

Why Just Compassion: Benefits & Total Rewards

Just Compassion is committed to supporting the health, well-being, and professional growth of our team members. Benefits for eligible employees may include:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance plans
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP), providing confidential counseling, financial, and legal support at no cost to team members
• Individual Retirement Account (IRA) retirement savings option
• Paid time off (PTO) for eligible employees
• Paid sick time in accordance with Oregon law
• Paid leave benefits in compliance with Oregon Paid Leave Oregon (PLO), Oregon Family Leave Act (OFLA), and the federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), as applicable
• Wellness time to support overall employee well-being
• Eleven (11) paid holidays annually
• Professional development opportunities

Just Compassion of East Washington County is committed to a policy of Equal Employment Opportunity with respect to all employees and applicants for employment. This policy prohibits discrimination on all legally recognized bases including, but not limited to, race, creed, color, gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, marital status, family relationship, disability, national origin, or service in the uniformed services.