The 211 Veterans Specialist focuses on the veteran community. This position will include a focus on homelessness, employment, transportation, Veteran benefits and other needs. The position will respond to calls from veterans and San Bernardino County callers, collect information, enter data, perform caller assessment, provide information and referrals and conduct follow-up calls. This part-time, non-exempt, grant-funded position carries with it the possibility that it may not be renewed if further funding is not obtained. The availability of grant funds does not guarantee continued employment. No contract is implied; this position is “at-will” and employment may be terminated at any time by the employee or the employer. This position reports to the 211 Operations Manager.
Essential Functions 90%
- Answer incoming calls efficiently and according to established standards, ensuring appropriate data is collected and entered accurately and appropriately into database
- Assess needs of callers and determine necessary resources to best satisfy those needs
- Refer callers to appropriate resources and assist them in navigating systems to ensure they are able to make connections to needed services
- Conduct specialized assessments in various programs, such as HMIS, VI-SPDAT
- Create housing plans which includes coordinating outreach, matching and referring to appropriate housing provider and identifying financial opportunities from employment to benefits. Participate in Homeless Veteran Community Planning Group (HVCPG)
- Participate in Veteran collaborative and partnerships with a focus on documenting employment outcomes
- Measuring impact on all Veteran activities
- Conduct follow-up surveys by facilitating ongoing evaluations of the quality and delivery of services provided to the target population
- Assist with keeping 211 VetLink updated as necessary
- When necessary and appropriate, identify veteran organizations that could be added to the 211 database in order to increase the availability of resources for veterans and help facilitate the registration of these agencies into the 211 system
- Successfully maintain performance parameters and improve skills through various means
- Develop and maintain knowledge of program guidelines and contact requirements necessary for performance of responsibilities
- Build partnerships that will assist with information flow, resource availability and system improvement efforts pertaining to veterans
- Attend conferences, training sessions and other events as necessary to promote ongoing development and to broaden awareness of issues and resources related to the target population
- Represent 211 San Bernardino County at public and private events as needed, particularly as they pertain to veterans
- Research and prepare presentations as requested by supervisors to better inform beneficiaries of services
Secondary Functions 10%
- General clerical duties, which may include letter writing, faxing, copying, message handling, reports, office inventory, filing, data input and maintenance of marketing materials
- Maintain accurate and complete records of community interests and requests, aid in research and data input, participate in outreach events and assist with grant maintenance
- Other duties as assigned
- Must have served in US military (DD-214 required) and have a clear understanding of veteran issues
- Strong computer skills with expertise in Windows, Microsoft Office and familiarity with internet protocols
- Bilingual English/Spanish preferred, but not required
- Must be willing and able to become AIRS/CIRS certified
- Must have reliable transportation, a valid California driver’s license, proof of minimum required California vehicle liability insurance and a good driving record
- Must be available and able to work outside traditional office hours, including some evenings and weekends
- In the event of a disaster, may be required to work 12-hour shifts, 7 days per week
Wage: $16.00/hour. Benefits include accrued vacation and sick-leave.