Homeless Resource Outreach Specialist

Summary Objective

The purpose of this position is to engage and connect houseless individuals to services and resources. Coordinates, monitors, and evaluates needs of those experiencing houselessness utilizing client‑centered communication and response. This class works under general supervision, independently developing work methods and sequences.

• Builds relationships with houseless individuals in encampments and the areas where transient individuals frequent.
• Connects houseless individuals with resources and services (by building trust and rapport) to address their individual needs.
• Engages and mitigates crises through de‑escalation, harm reduction, and conflict resolution.
• Anticipates and is responsive to Homeless Services Division team requests and the needs of the team.
• Articulates positive reinforcement, proactiveness, and transformation.
• Makes necessary connections to services, support, and opportunities (i.e., emergency shelters, SUD services, mental health services, Common Assessment, Single Point of Entry, etc.) that lead to stabilization and/or housing security.
• Conducts neighborhood friendly approach with grass‑roots organizations, homeless providers, and business stakeholders.
• Educates citizens on the Homeless Encampment ordinance and the Homeless Encampment Protocol.
• Builds and/or strengthens relationships within the community to be able to assist with identifying the gaps and barriers and establishes and maintains liaisons with other service providers.
• Documents and records daily client interactions, including triage of individual needs, contacts, referrals, and site conditions.
• Works cooperatively with members of government‑related agencies and the general public.
• Coordinates property maintenance and monitors for compliance or assessment for encampments.
• Performs related work as assigned.

• High School Graduation or GED equivalent.
• One (1) year of customer service experience, or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.

• Must be eligible to complete Trauma‑Informed Care, Harm Reduction, and Equity training within 90 days.
• Must be willing to work first or second shift, weekends, extended hours, overtime and/or vary duty hours as deemed necessary.
• Must possess and maintain a valid state driver’s license with an acceptable driving history.

Performs light to medium work that involves walking or standing virtually all of the time and also involves exerting between 20 and 50 pounds of force on a regular and recurring basis or considerable skill, adeptness and speed in the use of the fingers, hands or limbs in tasks involving close tolerances or limits of accuracy.

Involves routine and frequent exposure to:

• Bright/dim light; dusts and pollen.
• Extreme heat and/or cold; wet or humid conditions.
• Extreme noise levels, animals/wildlife.

Louisville Metro Government is an Equal Opportunity Employer. ADA requires the Louisville Metro Government to provide reasonable accommodations to qualified persons with disabilities. Prospective and current employees are encouraged to discuss ADA accommodations with management.

May be required to work nights, weekends, holidays and emergencies (man‑made or natural) to meet the business needs of Louisville Metro Government. This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of essential functions and responsibilities that are required of an employee for this job. Other duties, responsibilities, and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice.

It is the responsibility of each employee to comply with established policies, procedures and safe work practices. Each employee must follow safety training and instructions provided by their supervisor. Each employee must also properly wear and maintain all personal protective equipment required for their job. Finally, each employee must immediately report any unsafe work practices or unsafe conditions as well as any on‑the‑job injury or illnesses.

Every manager/supervisor is responsible for enforcing all safety rules and regulations. In addition, they are responsible for ensuring that a safe work environment is maintained, safe work practices are followed and employees are properly trained.