Intake Specialist

Job Description

Job Description

MISSION STATEMENT

Are you ready to give back to the community while pursuing your passion?  For over 50 years, Acacia Network and its affiliates have been committed to improving the quality-of-life and wellbeing of underserved communities in New York City and beyond.  We are one of the leading human services organizations in New York City and the largest Hispanic-led nonprofit in the State, serving over 150,000 individuals every year. Our programs serve individuals at every age and developmental level, from the very young through our daycare programs to mature adults through our older adults centers. Our extensive array of community-based services are fully integrated, bilingual and culturally competent.

POSITION OVERVIEW

Seedco is an affiliate of The Acacia Network, one of the leading human services organizations in New York City and one of the largest Hispanic-led nonprofits in the State, providing integrated, culturally competent, and trauma-informed programs in the areas of health, housing, social services, economic development, and cultural revitalization to more than 150,000 individuals annually. Seedco is a national nonprofit organization that advances economic opportunity for people, businesses and communities in need.

The Recovery Works  program responds to the reality that fewer than one in five individuals exiting treatment maintain long-term employment. By pairing clinical recovery with training, employment linkages, and retention coaching, the program promotes sustainable economic independence. The Recovery Works program integrates workforce development and recovery support services to help individuals in substance use or behavioral health treatment achieve sustained employment and stability. Services are trauma-responsive, evidence-informed, and coordinated through strong partnerships with clinical providers, employers, and community organizations. Building on more than 25 years of Seedco’s workforce and family-strengthening experience, the program connects job readiness, sector-based training, and long-term coaching with recovery services. opportunities.

The Intake Specialist serves as the primary point of contact for individuals seeking services through the organization's recovery transition program. This position is responsible for developing and maintaining referral relationships with community partners, treatment providers, correctional institutions, probation and parole agencies, employers, workforce development organizations, and other referral sources. The Intake Specialist conducts participant screenings and intakes, verifies eligibility, maintains accurate documentation, and facilitates access to case management, employment services, training opportunities, and community-based resources that support successful recovery and community reintegration.

The Intake Specialist plays a key role in promoting program services, communicating eligibility requirements, and ensuring a smooth transition for participants entering the program.

KEY ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Referral Development and Community Outreach

• Develop, maintain, and strengthen relationships with referral sources and community partners.
• Conduct outreach activities to increase awareness of program services and participant eligibility requirements.
• Present program information to treatment facilities, criminal justice agencies, community organizations, workforce development partners, and other stakeholder groups.
• Serve as a liaison between the organization and referral partners to ensure effective communication and collaboration.
• Provide technical assistance and guidance to referral sources regarding referral procedures and required documentation.
• Track referral activities and maintain records of outreach efforts and referral outcomes.

Intake and Eligibility Determination

• Receive and review participant referrals from internal and external sources.
• Conduct intake interviews and assessments using established program guidelines and procedures.
• Verify participant eligibility and collect supporting documentation.
• Explain program services, participant rights and responsibilities, and enrollment requirements.
• Complete enrollment forms, releases of information, and other required documentation.
• Enter and maintain accurate participant data in agency databases and case management systems.
• Ensure all participant files comply with organizational, contractual, and regulatory requirements.

Participant Engagement and Coordination

• Facilitate participant enrollment and coordinate referrals to case managers and program staff.
• Connect participants with employment services, vocational training opportunities, housing resources, healthcare providers, recovery support services, and other community resources.
• Provide participants with information regarding available services and program expectations.
• Maintain regular communication with participants during the intake and enrollment process.
• Assist in resolving barriers that may impact successful program entry and engagement.

Documentation and Reporting

• Maintain accurate, timely, and confidential records in accordance with agency policies.
• Prepare reports related to referrals, intakes, enrollment activities, and participant demographics.
• Monitor intake performance metrics and referral trends.
• Support program audits, monitoring visits, and quality assurance activities.
• Adhere to confidentiality standards and applicable privacy regulations.

REQUIREMENTS

• Associate's degree in Human Services, Social Work, Psychology, Criminal Justice, Public Health, or a related field required; Bachelor's degree preferred. 
• Equivalent combination of education and relevant experience may be considered.
• Minimum of two years of experience in intake, case management, social services, workforce development, behavioral health, recovery services, or a related field.
• Experience working with individuals in recovery, justice-involved populations, or underserved communities preferred.
• Experience conducting assessments, eligibility determinations, and maintaining participant records.
• Experience developing community partnerships and referral networks preferred.
• Knowledge of community resources, recovery support services, employment programs, workforce training opportunities, and social service systems.
• Understanding of challenges faced by individuals transitioning from treatment or recovery programs into the community.
• Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to conduct interviews and gather sensitive information professionally and compassionately.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and electronic case management systems.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.
• Experience working in a data-driven environment and a proven record of achieving performance targets preferred. Knowledge of health insurance options preferred.

WHY JOIN US?

Acacia Network provides a comprehensive and competitive benefits package to our employees. In addition to a competitive salary, our benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage. We also offer generous paid time off, including vacation days and paid holidays, to support a healthy work-life balance. We prioritize the well-being of our employees both professionally and personally.

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply.