Outreach Specialist-Citywide (84894)

POSITION: Outreach Specialist

PROGRAM/LOCATION: Citywide Outreach, Santa Clara County

SUPERVISOR: Program Manager     

JOB TYPE: Full Time, Non-Exempt

COMPENSATION: $30.89/Hourly

ABOUT HOMEFIRST

Established in 1980, HomeFirst™ is a nonprofit organization passionately working to end homelessness. We serve the Bay Area community through low-barrier programming and systems leadership – meeting each person where they are by offering support and resources that address immediate and long-term housing needs. With 45 years of experience, we view housing as a fundamental human right and understand that solving homelessness requires a collaborative effort.

OUR VALUES

• Kindness: We act with empathy toward others.
• Passion: We ignite change to fulfill our mission.
• Excellence: We deliver exceptional service to our communities.

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

HomeFirst Citywide Outreach is designed to connect street and encampment homeless individuals to shelter, services, and housing. The target populations for this program are vulnerable, chronically homeless individuals living on the streets or in encampments throughout San Jose. Program staff will provide a consistent presence on the roads and other outdoor locations throughout San Jose to build rapport and trust with unsheltered homeless
residents. The program aims to connect clients to services resulting in permanent housing.

 REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS

The position reports to the Program Manager.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
Direct Service 80%
• Provide street and encampment-based outreach to the homeless in San Jose.
• Provide information and referrals to community services, such as employment counseling, health care, mental health services, etc.
• Transport clients, in an agency vehicle, to the BRC shelter or other appropriate destinations. Provide UPLIFT requests for those who qualify.
• Conduct VI-SPDATS assessments to determine client vulnerability, self-sufficiency, and appropriate housing or service program referral and placement.
• Complete all appropriate data collection, Salesforce, HMIS data entry, paperwork, and tracking of activities within two business days.
• Respond to the Homeless Helpline calls/emails for assistance within one business day.
• Assist clients with accessing public benefits and assistance as appropriate.
• Connect or refer clients to services provided at the BRC shelter service center.
• Make timely and accurate decisions in emergencies or crises with particular awareness of the need for the safety of all clients, staff, or volunteers involved.
• Provide street-based case management to the unhoused population.
• To provide access to emergency shelter, meals, showers, and laundry services to unsheltered homeless individuals.
• Staff the Hotline weekly and monitor/update the Outreach bed list.
• Provide excellent customer service when staffing HomeFirst Homeless Helpline.
• Weekend and after-hours support are required when requested by the City.

General 20%
• Utilize supervision appropriately, maintaining open lines of communication and providing updates on activities regularly.
• Know and follow agency and program policies and procedures.
• Properly report any suspected cases of abuse.
• Other duties as assigned.

Skills, Abilities, and Knowledge
• Knowledge of highly-utilized locations in San Jose where the homeless congregate and camp
• Ability to walk long distances and on rough terrain (such as trails to creek-side encampments and high-traffic areas)
• Ability to lift and carry outreach supplies (usually in a backpack, up to 30 lbs.)
• Understanding of and sensitivity to the needs of the homeless
• Commitment to increasing the housing stability and self-sufficiency of the homeless
• Strong verbal and written skills; knowledge of multiple languages is desirable
• Good problem-solving skills and the ability to prioritize multiple tasks
• Ability to work with people of diverse social backgrounds and professional rank
• Demonstrated effective communication skills
• Knowledge and understanding of community resources and human services
• Initiative, flexibility, and the capacity to respond effectively in all situations
• Good collaboration skills and the ability to work independently with limited supervision
• Ability to work as part of a diverse team
• Basic computer skills, including knowledge of MS Office applications and the internet

Other
• Clean driving record
• Valid CA driver's license and legally required insurance; reliable transportation

BENEFITS

HomeFirst provides comprehensive benefits, including 100% employer-paid medical, dental, and vision coverage and additional wellness options like chiropractic care, mental health support, pet insurance, and an Employee Assistance Program. We offer a 401(k)-retirement plan with generous matching, life and disability insurance, flexible spending accounts, commuter benefits, and workers’ compensation. Employees enjoy 12 holidays, sick leave, and PTO starting at 15 days annually, increasing with tenure, plus 8 hours of civic engagement leave annually to volunteer.

ORGANIZATIONAL EQUITY STATEMENT

At HomeFirst, diversity, equity, and inclusion guide our services, workplace, and decisions. Recognizing housing as a social justice issue, we prioritize equitable practices, honor lived experiences, and uphold dignity for all. By fostering belonging, accountability, and continuous improvement, we embed DEI values in our processes, recruitment, and leadership, striving for excellence at every level.

HomeFirst Services is proud to be an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer and considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by law. We also consider qualified applicants with criminal histories consistent with applicable federal, state, and local law. Additionally, HomeFirst participates in the E-Verify program, as required by law.

HomeFirst is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in our job application process. If you need assistance or accommodation due to a disability, please let your recruiter know.

QUALIFICATIONS (YOU HAVE)
Education and Experience
• High school diploma or GED; Bachelor’s degree in Social Work or related field is a plus
• Having personal or professional experiences with homelessness

• Valid Drivers License, insurance and ability to be added onto agency insurance (required)

Salary : $31