UTILITY INTAKE SPECIALIST

Job Description

Job Description

Founded in 1991 to address the overwhelming need for affordable housing in Monmouth County, the Affordable Housing Alliance (AHA) has grown from a small $25,000 grant into a multi-million-dollar annual operation and powerhouse non-profit. In our decades of service, we've developed over 600 affordable housing units with a strong pipeline fueling future growth. Our passionate team of difference-makers’ guides residents through every step of the housing journey - from homelessness prevention and rental assistance, to homebuyer education and foreclosure counseling.

At the Affordable Housing Alliance (AHA), we believe that safe, decent and affordable housing is a fundamental human right. Everyone deserves to feel secure, comfortable and supported in the place they call home. As a catalyst for change in our community, the AHA strives to uphold this right by providing comprehensive housing services and solutions for all who need it most.

Our Core Values

● Integrity- We demonstrate honesty and unwavering ethical conduct in all of our actions. At the AHA, we build trust through transparency and hold ourselves accountable to the highest standards.

● Hope - We meet each person where they are in their unique journey with genuine understanding. By offering tangible assistance, we nurture hope and empower individuals to build their path forward.

● Adaptability- We embrace change as an opportunity to innovate and grow stronger. At the AHA, we respond dynamically to evolving community needs, turning challenges into possibilities for those we serve.

● Community Service - We dedicate ourselves to uplifting others and improving lives through meaningful action. At the AHA, we create positive change by empowering individuals, fostering independence, and building a more vibrant community for all.

The Utility Intake Spe cialist provides initial contact to clients seeking utility assistance. The Intake Specialist greets and assists walk-in clients and responds to client calls and emails. This position directs and secures client documents to ensure the applications may be reviewed and processed. The Intake Specialist utilizes two different systems and online files.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS/DUTIES:

• Work in a fast-paced environment as the first contact to respond to and assist clients in need.

• Utilize multitasking skills to respond to clients calling, emailing and walking in for assistance.

• Demonstrate empathy, patience and professionalism while reviewing program requirements to help clients determine eligibility for programs.

• Receive and file (or scan and file) documents received by mail or fax from clients.

• Utilizing two different systems, enter initial intake information for clients indicating documents received and then file the documents either electronically or in paper filing system.

• Demonstrate strong sense of teamwork and effective communication skills essential to contribute to a positive work environment.

• Occasionally attend community outreach events promoting assistance programs and assisting clients.

• Other duties as assigned and necessary for the administrative functioning of the department

QUALIFICATIONS/EDUCATION

• High School Diploma

• Bi-Lingual Spanish a plus

PLUS

• One to 2 years of experience preferred in providing intake and referral services, community outreach, or other related social service experiences.

• Strong interpersonal skills to communicate with clients, some of whom may be in crisis. Ability to listen respectfully and demonstrate empathy.

• Computer proficiency, experience with data entry and ability to learn new systems.

• Attention to detail and ability to maintain confidential information.

UPON EMPLOYMENT:

• Ability to pass a drug test.

• Ability to pass a criminal background check.

• If required to drive an agency vehicle, NJ driver’s license in good standing with no more than six (6) points.

We Encourage Applicants Who:

• Have lived experience with homelessness or housing insecurity, with insight into both the barriers and opportunities that come from these circumstances.

• Demonstrate a passion for using personal experience to support others and advocate for meaningful change.

• Offer a firsthand understanding of systemic challenges connected to poverty and economic insecurity.

Community Outreach:

This position may require participation in community outreach events and organizational activities outside of regular business hours. Staff members are expected to attend assigned evening and weekend outreach events as part of their role responsibilities. These events may include but are not limited to community fairs, educational workshops, promotional activities, networking events, and public engagement initiatives. Participation in outreach events is considered an essential function of this position. Candidates should be prepared to work flexible hours including evenings and weekends as business outreach needs arise.