Engagement Coordinator

The Intake, Assessment and Capacity Management Unit is responsible for planning, implementing, administering, and effectuating the provision of services of the Division's seven assessment shelters, which operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. During the Assessment process, clients who are new to the Adult Services System, or who have previously left the system for twelve (12) months or more are assessed to determine individual needs, which helps to locate an appropriate shelter program to overcome the contributing factors of homelessness, i.e., substance abuse, mental health, domestic violence, and/or lack of employment, towards the goal of returning clients to the community as quickly as possible.

The Department of Homeless Services is recruiting one (1) Community Coordinator to function as an Engagement Coordinator, who will:

• Canvass a defined area in and around the shelter to identify, engage and offer services to individuals who are creating quality of life situations within the neighborhood.

• Deter loitering, aggressive panhandling, sleeping in public spaces and the public consumption of alcohol and illegal drugs within the community and the shelter which is not consistent with the behavioral expectations of a DHS client.

• Screen all persons attempting to enter Shelter seeking services.

• Engage clients to promote positive involvement in and around the shelter; make recommendations based on client observations and interactions .

• Establish and maintain effective relationships with clients and community residents; actively participate as a representative of DHS in assigned community meetings, committees, and coalitions to develop and enhance community partnerships.

• Serve as a knowledgeable resource about DHS programs and services.

• Plan, coordinate and participate in community relations projects, activities, and events in partnership with DHS offices of Communications and External Affairs, and other internal departments, to maintain positive stakeholder relationships and cultivate support for DHS programs.

• Conduct presentations for community-based organizations to increase awareness about DHS programs, services, and organizational goals. Work on special projects and all other professional duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

1.A baccalaureate degree from an accredited college and two years of experience in community work or community centered activities in an area related to the duties described above; or

2.High school graduation or equivalent and six years of experience in community work or community centered activities in an area related to the duties as described above; or

3.Education and/or experience which is equivalent to "1" or "2" above. However, all candidates must have at least one year of experience as described in "1" above.

Preferred Skills

• Excellent written, verbal and communication skills.

• Excellent computer skills.

• Knowledge of HRA 2000/2010E Housing Application process, EXCEL and CARES a plus.

Residency Requirement

New York City residency is generally required within 90 days of appointment. However, City Employees in certain titles who have worked for the City for 2 continuous years may also be eligible to reside in Nassau, Suffolk, Putnam, Westchester, Rockland, or Orange County. To determine if the residency requirement applies to you, please discuss with the agency representative at the time of interview.

Additional Information

The City of New York is an inclusive equal opportunity employer committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual's sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.