Interim Access Specialist

Description

The Access Specialist facilitates and coordinates the timely acceptance of clients referred from partner agencies, walk‑ins, and call‑ins that request homeless services. The role focuses on assessment, intake, and entering client information into the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS). A skilled assessor conducts low‑barrier intake and assessment processes, evaluates clients for potential diversion opportunities, and serves as a resource to intake support staff when problem‑solving.

Wednesday–Sunday, 2 p.m.–10 p.m.

• Operate within Du Page Pads  Core Values and the Agency’s trauma‑informed policies and practices.
• Ensure agency policies and procedures are followed by clients.
• Alert staff and management to client and programmatic issues.
• Participate in all Interim Housing meetings, supervision meetings, and staff meetings.
• Attend community meetings to network and develop resources for program participants.
• Mediate client conflict and manage client crisis.
• Collect and upload documentation, including identification and income source, to support transitions into internal and external housing programs.
• Prepare and maintain accurate confidential case files, contractual compliance paperwork, and status reports.
• Complete individualized screening, assessment, and intake for those eligible for homeless services.
• Provide appropriate referrals to partner agencies, enrichment programs, and outside providers.
• Coordinate with the Street Outreach team to verify client homeless status.
• Advocate for increased community education, relationships, and solutions that benefit the client population.
• Teach independent living skills and manage crisis situations effectively.
• Perform general front‑office administrative tasks such as managing mail, client check‑ins, and answering the phone.
• Respond to facility needs and relay relevant information to the administrative team.
• Perform other duties as assigned by supervisor.

• Bachelor’s degree in social work, a related field, or equivalent experience/education that demonstrates the ability to complete the required work.
• Experience in case management.
• Experience with issues related to homelessness, poverty, and mental health (preferred).

• Excellent engagement and advocacy skills.
• Effective oral and written communication.
• Crisis intervention skills.
• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and record‑keeping systems.
• Strong interpersonal, creative thinking, and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Knowledge of homelessness, housing, disability, recovery, and equity issues.
• Ethical decision‑making foundation.

Wednesday–Sunday, 2 p.m.–10 p.m.
Provide own transportation; will travel between two locations.

Full‑time non‑exempt