Housing & Essential Needs (H.E.N.) Specialist

Housing & Essential Needs (H.E.N.) Specialist Share and Care House - 2.0 Tacoma, WA Job Details Full-time $19 - $22 an hour 2 hours ago Benefits Health insurance Dental insurance 401(k) Tuition reimbursement Paid time off Vision insurance Flexible schedule Life insurance Qualifications Housing advocacy Working with individuals with disabilities Fair Housing regulations Housing and Urban Development (HUD) regulations Local agency collaboration Compliance audits & assessments Filing High school diploma or GED Working with individuals experiencing homelessness Case management Time management Full Job Description Position Summary The Housing and Essential Needs (HEN) Specialist serves as the first point of contact for clients, visitors, and community partners while providing comprehensive support to individuals and families experiencing housing instability. This position delivers professional, compassionate customer service at the front office window, conducts client intakes, verifies eligibility documentation, maintains client records, and coordinates the distribution of essential needs items. In addition to front office responsibilities, the HEN Specialist assists participants with housing navigation, housing stability planning, and connections to community resources. The position works to reduce barriers to housing by coordinating rental assistance, facilitating access to essential needs support, and providing referrals to appropriate services. The HEN Specialist ensures accurate documentation, maintains compliance with program requirements, and supports data collection and reporting standards, including HMIS and other applicable funding and regulatory guidelines. Responsibilities Greet clients, visitors, and community partners in a professional, respectful, and welcoming manner. Serve as the primary point of contact at the front office window. Answer phone calls, monitor voicemail, return messages, and direct inquiries to appropriate staff. Provide information regarding agency programs, services, eligibility requirements, and community resources. Maintain confidentiality of all client information in accordance with agency policies and applicable regulations Front Office Customer Service Greet clients, visitors, and community partners in a professional, respectful, and welcoming manner. Serve as the primary point of contact at the front office window. Answer incoming phone calls, monitor voicemail, return messages, and direct inquiries to appropriate staff. Provide information regarding agency programs, services, eligibility requirements, and community resources. Maintain confidentiality of all client information in accordance with agency policies and applicable regulations. Client Intake & Eligibility Support Conduct client intakes and assist individuals in completing required forms and applications. Review and verify intake documentation for completeness and accuracy. Collect, organize, and upload required eligibility documents. Prepare new client files and maintain accurate records. Schedule appointments and coordinate follow-up services as needed. Assist staff with client enrollment and program participation requirements. Essential Needs Distribution Maintain inventory of essential needs items and supplies. Distribute approved essential needs items to eligible clients. Track inventory usage and notify supervisors when supplies require replenishment. Ensure storage and distribution areas remain organized and stocked. Assist clients in identifying immediate needs and connecting them with available resources. Administrative Support Prepare and maintain client files, both electronic and paper. File documents accurately and timely. Assist with document collection, mailings, and routine correspondence. Maintain copies of program materials, resource guides, applications, and landlord packets. Support staff with data entry and administrative tasks as assigned. Team Support Collaborate with program staff to address client needs and ensure quality service delivery. Assist with office coverage and special projects as needed. Participate in team meetings, trainings, and professional development opportunities. Help maintain a positive, client-centered environment that supports the agency's mission. Qualifications High school diploma or GED required; associate degree preferred. Minimum one year of customer service, administrative support, or human services experience preferred. Experience working with vulnerable populations preferred. Strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills. Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise professional judgment. Proficiency with Microsoft Office and database systems. Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Demonstrated ability to provide compassionate and trauma-informed customer service. Strong attention to detail and accuracy in documentation. Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment. Effective problem-solving and conflict-resolution skills. Ability to interact respectfully with individuals from diverse backgrounds. Physical Requirements Ability to sit, stand, and move throughout the office during the workday. Ability to lift and carry essential needs supplies up to 25 pounds. Ability to operate standard office equipment.

Core Competencies Client Focus Professionalism Teamwork Adaptability Communication Organization Cultural Humility Reliability Mission Impact:

This position plays a vital role in creating a welcoming first impression for clients while ensuring they receive timely access to services, resources, and essential needs that support housing stability and overall well-being.

Pay:

$19.00 - $22.00 per hour

Benefits:

401(k) Dental insurance Flexible schedule Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Tuition reimbursement Vision insurance Application Question(s): Do you have reliable transportation & valid ID? Do you have any concerns with making/answering phone calls (not cold-calling)?

Work Location:

In person