Shelter Intake Specialist — Trauma‑Informed Care & Resources

Chicanos Por La Causa, Inc. (CPLC); Albuquerque (NM); On-site; USD 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid Holiday

Paid Time Off

Health Insurance

Dental & Vision

401(k)

Telemedicine

Tuition Reimbursement

Pet Care

Job summary

Chicanos Por La Causa, Inc. seeks an Intake Specialist for Gateway West Shelter in Albuquerque, NM. You will manage guest intake, document interactions in HMIS, and assist guests in accessing housing, health, and employment resources.

This full-time role requires weekend/holiday availability, driving may be required, and a trauma-informed, compassionate approach to help guests transition to stable housing.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; additional education in social work, human services, or a related field preferred.
• Experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness or in a supportive housing setting is highly desirable.
• Proficiency in using HMIS or similar client management systems for data entry and reporting.
• Valid driver's license and ability to travel locally as needed; some staff may be eligible to drive 15-passenger vans.

Responsibilities

• Guest Intake & Assessment: Conduct thorough intake interviews to understand guest needs, complete and maintain accurate records in HMIS, and administer VI-SPDAT assessments for guests staying over 15 days to support coordinated entry into housing programs.
• Service Coordination & Resource Navigation: Act as a key liaison to connect guests with housing, healthcare, mental health services, employment opportunities, and other community resources. Manage pet care agreements and coordinate with external agencies to ensure a safe environment for both guests and their pets.
• Shelter Operations & Crisis Management: Support daily shelter operations, including maintaining cleanliness, monitoring policy compliance, and assisting with meal distribution and transportation scheduling. Respond to emergencies with effective crisis intervention and de-escalation techniques to ensure safety and stability.
• Driving & Flexible Scheduling: Some Intake Specialists may operate a 15-passenger van to transport guests and referrals to community locations and shelter access points (DEPENDING ON ELIGIBILITY). Position requires flexibility for evening and weekend hours based on shelter needs and emergency situations.

Skills

Data Management

Reporting

Trauma-Informed Care

Crisis De-Escalation

Communication

Documentation

Education

High School Diploma or Equivalent

Social Work / Human Services coursework

Tools

HMIS

Job description

Chicanos Por La Causa, Inc. seeks an Intake Specialist for Gateway West Shelter in Albuquerque, NM. You will manage guest intake, document interactions in HMIS, and assist guests in accessing housing, health, and employment resources.

This full-time role requires weekend/holiday availability, driving may be required, and a trauma-informed, compassionate approach to help guests transition to stable housing.