Bilingual Intake Specialist

Under the general direction of the Assistant Lead Case Manager, the Intake Specialist is responsible for coordinating and implementing intake services for unaccompanied alien children (UAC) in accordance with agency policy, DFPS Minimum Standards and ORR Policy. The specialist must be on‑call based upon programmatic needs to ensure that the intake process is completed for each UAC placed at St. PJ’s, promoting best practice and facilitating the optimum delivery of quality trauma‑informed care and case management services.

Schedule

Tuesday‑Saturday, 10 am – 7 pm

Responsibilities

• Managing the UAC Bed Capacity Workspace to ensure accurate counts of UAC in care, UAC pending placement, and closed beds.
• Responding to incoming placement confirmation emails and/or calls in a timely manner.
• Working collaboratively with ORR intakes to ensure that the UAC referral process is conducted.
• Communicating information about incoming UAC to program staff and keeping them aware of arrival dates/times.
• Conducting intake interviews and orientation, and assessing client needs and strengths.
• Completing intake and orientation interviews and processes within required timeframes.
• Maintaining the safety and well‑being of children through supervision, adherence to program policies, and appropriate interventions, including approved crisis‑management techniques such as physical containment when necessary.
• Delivering client services and all daily interactions within the Sanctuary Model framework.
• Assisting with case manager assignment to ensure all UAC are effectively assigned within the allotted time frame.
• Completing documentation in the UAC case file and entering required information in the UAC portal within required timeframes.
• Adapting to changing program needs, including work in evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.
• Actively participating in the enhancement and/or improvement of the living and working environment for residents and employees.
• Attending administrative staff meetings, staff retreats, and other team‑building activities as scheduled.
• Demonstrating proficiency in agency policy, DFPS Minimum Standards and ORR Policy.
• Demonstrating knowledge and sensitivity to cultural norms, values, and heritage.
• Assuming on‑call duties after regular business hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Attendance and successful completion of a 10‑day New Employee Orientation (mandatory).
• Completing all required professional development assignments in a timely manner.
• Being sensitive to the service population’s cultural and socioeconomic characteristics.
• Adhering to safety training and protocols daily, taking precautionary measures to ensure safety and well‑being of self and others.
• Protecting the confidentiality of any information or material obtained in the service with the organization.
• Adherence to the Code of Conduct and the Faith and Moral Policy.
• Taking a solution‑oriented approach, promoting collaboration and commitment to the organization’s Mission and Vision.
• Other duties as assigned by the Program Director or Senior Director of Emergency Services.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in behavioral science, human services, social services or a related field.
• Child welfare and/or case management experience is strongly recommended.

License / Credentials

• Must be at least 21 years of age.
• Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record.
• Maintain valid vehicle liability insurance and reliable transportation.
• Proof of immunity to vaccine‑preventable diseases transmitted by the respiratory route when working directly with unaccompanied children:
  • Varicella: two doses (4 weeks apart) OR birth in the United States before 1980 with documented chickenpox history OR titers indicating immunity OR documentation from a healthcare provider verifying previous infection.
  • MMR: two doses (4 weeks apart) OR titers indicating immunity to all three diseases.
  • Tdap: one dose within the past 10 years.
  • Influenza: one dose annually during flu season (August/September – June).
• Compliance with state licensing requirements for all other health screenings and requirements, including tuberculosis (TB) screening, as applicable.

Minimum Knowledge and Skills

• Bilingual: fluent in English and Spanish (reading, writing, speaking, comprehension).
• Computer literate with working knowledge of Microsoft Windows, Microsoft Word, Excel, and various web‑based database systems; able to manage files, design forms, and perform office procedures.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and critical‑thinking skills.
• Ability to read and interpret policy, procedures, and standards.
• Detail‑oriented, organized, self‑motivated; works well independently and on a team.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Effective problem‑solving abilities and calm composure in crisis situations.

Travel Requirements

0% local travel, 0% overnight travel.