First Response Specialist - FSC (5762)

WHY WORK FOR US? We are mission and values driven and your contributions will make a difference. We make a positive difference in people’s lives and help an average of 23 people per week to find a place to live. If you join us, you will be able to advocate for change while also working with influential people who effect changes in policy and devote time to issues of racial and social justice. We prioritize your work/life balance and provide various scheduling options in addition to generous time off, health, and wellness benefits and we’re committed to helping you reach your potential by providing opportunities for professional growth across the state.

JR 5762

First Response Specialist Los Angeles, CA 90018 Salary: $23.24 to $28.28 per hour Pay Frequency: 24 Pay Periods Per Year Full Time Non-Exempt Driving Required Lower end of range will apply to candidates who meet minimum experience or have limited years of relevant experience. The higher end of range will apply to seasoned candidates with considerable years of relevant experience. PATH is seeking candidates passionate about helping others make a positive change in their lives to join our Program Admin Support - FS team as the First Response Specialist at the Family Solutions Center office. ABOUT PATH Since its foundation in 1984, PATH (People Assisting The Homeless) has pioneered bold and effective approaches to assist people experiencing homelessness. PATH operates services throughout California, connecting our clients to a comprehensive continuum of homelessness prevention, street outreach, employment preparation and placement assistance, individualized case management, supportive services, interim housing, and permanent supportive housing. ABOUT THE JOB As part of the Program Admin Support - FS team, the First Response Specialist provides regional coordination among providers in SPA 4. To do so, they are stationed at both the FSC and at partner agencies on specific days during the week. The Family Response Specialist coordinates referrals from 211 and community-based organizations (e.g. family shelters), facilitating individualized assessments and triage of needs. After intake and assessment, the Family Response Specialist also provides targeted services focused on returning families to permanent housing as quickly as possible. Position Responsibilities include: Coordinate Family Response Team referrals into the Family Solution Center. Provide strengths-based service coordination services designed to assist clients in obtaining crisis housing. Conduct crisis and risk assessments in consultation with supervisor/team or LCSW. Provide crisis intervention services focused on enhancing the clients’ ability to independently problem solve, utilize effective coping skills, and manage their own care. Utilize evidence-based practices in service delivery such as, Motivational Interviewing, Harm Reduction, Critical Time Intervention and Housing First practices. Manage shelter waitlist and placements for multiple agencies within the Metro LA area. Manage utilization and tracking of motel vouchers when needed. Issue and track transportation vouchers and tokens for client use. Maintain documentation standards as set forth by the program contract and PATH policies. Complete progress notes on every face to face/ telephone contact with client or collateral contact by the next business day at 5pm. Collect all necessary documentation needed to support assistance provided. Find temporary housing opportunities for eligible participants. Manage and track financial assistance funds by using updated technological and tracking tools. WHAT YOU BRING We’re looking for candidates with: Analytical Skills and Attention to Detail: Gather and interpret data, identifying trends, patterns, and insights to inform decision-making. Ability to consistently produce high-quality work, ensuring accuracy and precision in all tasks. Collaboration and Teamwork: Work effectively with others, seeking out and building positive working relationships with colleagues, participants, and stakeholders. Work effectively with others, contributing to team goals and recognizing the strengths and contributions of others. Communication: Convey information clearly and effectively (both verbally and in writing) to individuals and groups in a manner that informs, engages and maintains their attention. Creativity and Initiative: Take action and make decisions without being prompted, demonstrating a proactive approach to work and a willingness to take on additional responsibilities. Think outside the box, generating innovative solutions to problems or challenges. Critical Thinking and Problem Solving: Analyze and evaluate information and situations, identify key issues, consider alternatives, and make logical decisions based on sound reasoning that will achieve the desired outcome. Ethics and Boundaries: Maintain ethical and professional standards, demonstrating honesty, integrity, and a commitment to doing the right thing in all situations while maintaining professional boundaries. PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work or related field. Two (2) years of experience in healthcare, case management, homeless services or working with vulnerable populations or a related field. Four (4) years of professional experience in the human services field or related field. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS All levels of education and experience are welcome. MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS Regardless of qualifications, candidates must: Have employment eligibility verification Have or be able and willing to obtain CPR/First Aid training Successfully complete the following as a condition of hire: Tuberculosis Test Background Screening Drug Test DRIVING Driving is an essential function of this position. To meet the employment requirements for this role, all candidates must: Have reliable transportation A valid driver’s license Proof of insurance and ownership for personal vehicles used during work duties The ability to qualify for PATH’s insurance coverage EMPLOYMENT ELIGIBILITY Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa. CALIFORNIA-BASED WORK EXPECTATIONS We are a California employer. Therefore, all regular and customary work must be performed within the state. Approval for work outside of the office, does not establish approval for work to be conducted outside of California. PATH does not offer fully remote positions. While some roles may include a schedule that involves multiple designated worksites or approved off‑site locations (e.g., hybrid schedules), this does not imply that work will be performed from home. Many positions are fully on‑site with no off‑site work. All work schedules are determined by the responsibilities of the role and operational requirements, and may be adjusted at any time. WHAT WE OFFER In addition to a rewarding work environment, we offer our employees a competitive benefits package that includes medical, dental and vision coverage, vacation and sick time, paid holidays, and a retirement plan. PATH provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, PATH complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training. PATH will consider for employment all qualified Applicants, including those with Criminal Histories, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the City of Los Angeles’ Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. PATH is dedicated to racial and social justice by centering equity in our service delivery and maintaining a diverse and inclusive work environment for the communities we serve.We seek awareness and insight from witnessing the stories of our clients and learning from the experiences of our staff to ensure impactful systems change. If people are empowered, they can bring their authentic, whole selves to work and when people feel like they belong, they can become part of a unified effort of ending homelessness for all. #J-18808-Ljbffr PATH (People Assisting the Homeless)