Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
JOB TITLE Intake Specialist PROGRAM: Illinois Welcoming Center (IWC) REPORTS TO: Illinois Welcoming Center Program Manager EMPLOYMENT STATUS: Full-time FLSA CLASSIFICATION: Non-Exempt WORK SCHEDULE: Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM-5:00 PM HOURLY RATE: $21 POSITION SUMMARY The Intake Specialist is the first point of contact for individuals seeking support through the Illinois Welcoming Center (IWC) at the Spanish Community Center. This role supports walk-in clients and phone inquiries by conducting holistic intakes, identifying needs, and connecting participants with internal programs and community resources. The Intake Specialist also provides information on eligibility and enrollment processes, ensures accurate documentation, and supports ongoing care coordination in collaboration with the SCC team. ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES AND KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Front Desk & Communication
- Greet walk-in clients and answer phone calls, responding to general inquiries and directing individuals to appropriate staff or services
- Manage appointment scheduling and follow-up communication with clients
- Maintain an organized and professional front desk space with updated materials and referral information
Intake, Navigation & Support
- Conduct holistic intakes to identify individual and household needs, complete risk assessments, and develop contingency plans as needed
- Provide clear guidance on eligibility criteria, required documentation, and enrollment processes
- Offer on-the-spot assistance with applications and refer participants to appropriate internal or external providers
- Maintain accurate, confidential records in Charity Tracker and related systems
Case Coordination & Follow-Up
- Collaborate with the IWC Program Manager to assign clients requiring ongoing case management.
- Communicate key client information-such as goals, needs, and barriers-to the IWC Program Manager prior to the start of services
- Conduct follow-up with current and former participants to ensure needs are addressed and identify any additional support required
- Participate in case reviews and coordinate care with SCC program staff
Resource Development & Intern Support
- Maintain up-to-date information on local agencies and referral contacts to effectively connect clients to services
- Participate in community activities, networking, and outreach events representing SCC and the IWC Program
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
- High school diploma or equivalent required; Associate's degree preferred
- Fluent in reading, writing and speaking in Spanish and English
- 1-2 years of experience in a client-facing or administrative role, ideally in a nonprofit or social services setting
- Must be able to pass a criminal background check
- Must have a valid driver's license and reliable transportation
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
- Strong interpersonal and organizational skills
- Knowledge and skill in working with families in crisis or in sensitive situations
- High degree of cultural sensitivity and ability to work effectively with families from diverse racial, socio-economic, ethnic and educational backgrounds
- Familiarity with local human service systems
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office; experience with case management software
PHYSICAL AND WORK ENVIRONMENT REQUIREMENTS
- Regular travel to community events, partner agencies, and a second site in Joliet
- Ability to sit, stand, or walk for extended periods
- May involve occasional evening or weekend work depending on client needs and events
Benefits:Health InsuranceDental InsurancePaid time off401kCompensation: $21.00 per hour HistoryThe Spanish Community Center (SCC) has a special place in Will County's history as an example of what a small group of committed individuals can do to make a difference.Over 50 years ago, the Adler, Maher, and Hernandez personally responded to the needs of the migrant community in Joliet by founding the SCC out of a house located at 205 Herkimer St, before relocating to its current location in the early 1980's.Today, the SCC stays true to its mission of serving as Will County's only bilingual one-stop shop of social and educational services. Although originally focused on Spanish-speaking peoples, we proudly serve individuals of all backgrounds.Our MissionThe Spanish Community Center helps improve the life for Latinos, immigrants, and low income people through educational and social services.Our VisionThe Spanish Community Center is a bridge to the well-being of all members in an inclusive and engaged community.Our Values
- Excellence
- Trust through integrity
- Welcoming environment through empathy and respect for all
- Belief in the potential of each individual
- Advocacy for and with the community
- The power of a diverse local community