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.

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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