INFORMATION & REFERRAL SPECIALIST

Do you want to use your education and commitment to make a positive difference in people's lives every workday?

The Loudoun County Department of Family Services is seeking to fill a grant-funded, full-time (37.5 hours per week) position as an Information and Referral Specialist to join the Information & Referral/Coordinated Entry team.

This position provides information on myriad programs and services in response to specific inquiries from residents and community-based organizations. Using an updated resource file and database, Information and Referral Specialists link individuals in need of information or services to the appropriate resources. The Information and Referral/Coordinated Entry team also works to objectively assess individuals experiencing housing instability and homelessness. This position will connect individuals experiencing housing instability and homelessness with the type and level of services and programs that best meet their needs. The Information & Referral Specialist represents the Information and Referral team at trainings, community meetings, events, and other venues as needed.

Responsibilities include:

• Assessing an individual's needs
• Identifying appropriate resources, exploring options, and assisting the individual in solving as appropriate
• Advocating on behalf of the individual, when necessary
• Maintaining accurate data records. 

Seeking candidates who have:

• Exceptional oral and written communication skills, as well as organizational and time management skills
• Excellent listening skills and the ability to apply critical thinking to respond effectively to situations
• The ability to prioritize tasks and work with frequent interruptions
• Knowledge of human services systems, community resources, and referral processes
• Ability to work with people of all backgrounds and sensitivity to the challenges of those experiencing homelessness and/or unstable housing situations with complex presentations, including chronic trauma
• Ability to interact constructively and work in harmony with diverse community interests 
• High level of personal accountability for the quality and impact of work
• Ability to function well in a team environment as well as independently
• Knowledge and Microsoft Suite, Homeless Management Information System

Bachelor's degree in Psychology, Sociology, Public administration, or other health-related field; two (2) years of work experience in a social or human service setting; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Preferred: Bi-lingual skills (Spanish/English).

• Must be available for duty beyond the typical workday (8:30 am- 5:00 pm), which includes weekends and holidays, as required to perform functions of the position for the assigned department.
• May be required to work and may be assigned to an alternate worksite(s) to carry out duties that support operational needs.

Pass pre-employment background checks to include criminal, credit, DMV, and CPS. Valid driver's license and good driving record (driving records may be reviewed annually for continued qualification).