Intake Specialist

Intake Specialist

The Kearney Center is seeking a compassionate, dependable, and detail-oriented Intake Specialist to serve as a primary point of contact for individuals seeking shelter and supportive services.

The Intake Specialist plays an important role in creating a welcoming, respectful, and trauma-informed experience for clients from their very first interaction with The Kearney Center. This position is responsible for conducting client intakes, determining eligibility, maintaining accurate documentation in HMIS, coordinating with other departments, and helping clients navigate available services.

We are looking for someone who communicates well, remains calm under pressure, pays close attention to detail, and is passionate about serving individuals experiencing homelessness with dignity and professionalism.

Position Details

• Department: Supportive Services / Intake & Diversion
• Reports To: Intake Supervisor
• Status: Full-Time or Part-Time
• Schedule: Schedule may vary based on operational needs and may include evenings and weekends.

Key Responsibilities

Client Intake & Support

• Serve as a primary point of contact for clients seeking shelter and services.
• Welcome clients and guide them through the intake process in a respectful and professional manner.
• Conduct intake assessments and gather required information to determine shelter eligibility and service needs.
• Respond to client questions, phone calls, and walk-in requests.
• Assist with shelter check-ins, referrals, and coordination of services.

Documentation & HMIS

• Complete timely and accurate documentation within HMIS and other organizational systems.
• Maintain client records, service notes, intake forms, and eligibility documentation.
• Ensure documentation meets organizational procedures, grant requirements, and confidentiality standards.
• Identify and correct documentation errors promptly.
• Communicate documentation concerns or operational issues to supervisors.

Client Care & Communication

• Utilize trauma-informed practices during client interactions.
• Remain calm, patient, and professional during stressful or emotionally difficult situations.
• Demonstrate empathy while maintaining appropriate professional boundaries.
• Use appropriate de-escalation techniques when responding to client concerns or difficult interactions.

Shelter Operations & Coordination

• Help maintain efficient shelter flow throughout the intake process.
• Coordinate with case management, direct care, and leadership staff regarding client needs.
• Maintain awareness of shelter capacity, procedures, and available services.
• Support clear communication during shift transitions and daily shelter operations.

Teamwork & Professionalism

• Work collaboratively with staff, supervisors, volunteers, and community partners.
• Participate in required trainings, supervision, and staff meetings.
• Maintain reliable attendance, punctuality, organization, and professionalism.
• Protect client confidentiality and organizational information.
• Demonstrate strong attention to detail and consistent follow-through.
• Support the mission, values, and culture of The Kearney Center.

What We're Looking For

The ideal candidate will demonstrate:

• Strong interpersonal and customer-service skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication.
• Strong attention to detail and documentation accuracy.
• Ability to remain calm and professional in a fast-paced environment.
• Compassion and respect when working with individuals experiencing homelessness or other challenging circumstances.
• Ability to maintain appropriate professional boundaries.
• Strong organization and follow-through.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• Dependability and consistent attendance.
• Comfort learning and using electronic client-record systems such as HMIS.

Experience in human services, social services, shelter operations, behavioral health, case management, customer service, or a related field is preferred.

What Success Looks Like

A successful Intake Specialist helps ensure that every client receives a professional, respectful, organized, and welcoming intake experience. They maintain accurate and timely documentation, communicate effectively with clients and coworkers, remain composed during challenging situations, and contribute to smooth and consistent shelter operations.

The Kearney Center is committed to serving individuals in our community with dignity, compassion, and professionalism. If you are dependable, detail-oriented, and passionate about helping others, we encourage you to apply.