Intake Specialist

Intake SpecialistAre you one of the real ones empowering our most vulnerable? The Shelter team wants to meet you! We are hiring for an Intake Specialist to work full-time, including weekends and holidays. LOCATION: 7440 Jim McDowell Rd ABOUT GATEWAY WEST Gateway West is Albuquerque’s largest shelter, serving an average of 600 people per night, offering a safe and welcoming environment to people experiencing homelessness. The center is open year-round, offering meals, a warm overnight bed, and secure under-bed storage. Shuttle service is provided daily. The team provides easy access to trauma-informed services such as case management, job searching, and other supportive services. The team’s goal is to guide guests through a successful exit from the shelter to safe, stable housing and a plan for ongoing support.HOW WILL YOU MAKE AN IMPACT? You will manage the intake process for guests at the shelter, maintaining accurate records of all interactions and service provisions, and supporting guests in accessing necessary resources and services. You will use Homeless Management Information System (HMIS) for data entry and reporting, coordinating with external agencies to ensure a safe environment for both guests and pets, and assisting guests with the completion of assessments such as the VI-SPDAT. Your role is critical in ensuring a smooth transition for guests into the shelter and supporting their pathway towards stable housing.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.WHAT MAKES YOU A GREAT INTAKE SPECIALIST? Data Management Reporting: Proficient in using HMIS or similar client management systems to accurately maintain guest records, track shelter occupancy, and generate reports for internal and external stakeholders. Trauma-Informed Care Crisis De-Escalation: Skilled in applying trauma-informed principles to create a safe, respectful environment; experienced in crisis intervention and de-escalation techniques to ensure guest and staff safety. Assessment Resource Coordination: Experienced in administering Vulnerability Index - Service Prioritization Decision Assistance Tool (VI-SPDAT) assessments and connecting guests to housing, healthcare, mental health services, employment opportunities, and other community resources. Communication, Compliance Documentation: Verbal and written communication skills with the ability to document service plans and interactions clearly; able to adhere to shelter policies and procedures and communicate them to guests; knowledgeable in managing pet care agreements and coordinating with external agencies.MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS AND COMPETENCIES High school diploma or equivalent; additional education in social work, human services, or a related field preferred. Previous 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 to transport guests. Additional Requirements Understanding of trauma-informed care principles and a commitment to applying them in practice. Ability to work effectively with diverse populations and demonstrate cultural competency. Excellent communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills. Ability to maintain professionalism and confidentiality in a fast-paced, high-stress environment. Ability to assess and respond to clients’ needs with sensitivity, creating a supportive space that acknowledges the effects of trauma on behavior and communication.BENEFITS We recognize that our success is driven by great talent, and that’s why we provide a comprehensive and competitive suite of benefits. Full-time employee’s benefits below: Generous Paid Holiday Employee Recognition Program Paid Time Off Paid Sick Days Free Preventative Services Wellness Rewards Medical, Dental, and Vision for Spouse/Domestic Partner Children to age 26 Health Savings Account Flexible Spending Account Life + Disability options Employee Assistance Program Telemedicine Concierge Services 401(k) Retirement Plan Pet Care, Life Mart Purchase Discounts Tuition Reimbursement for qualifying degrees Identity Theft Protection Voluntary Benefits