Job Descriptions

DEFINITION

Under general direction, the Homeless Program Coordinator will coordinate existing services for the homeless in areas such as prevention, early intervention, emergency and support services; develop and implement new strategies in collaboration with other agencies; provide staff assistance to the Commission on Homelessness; organize and participate in public outreach, education and advocacy efforts; perform research, report and grant writing; and to supervise assigned staff.

This position is assigned to the Turlock City Employees Association Bargaining Unit for labor relations purposes and is subject to overtime, standby and call back assignments.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED

General direction is provided by the Deputy City Manager. The incumbent may supervise and train full-time, part-time, seasonal and volunteer staff responsible for Homeless related program areas..

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

Duties and responsibilities are performed in accordance with municipal codes, laws, ordinances, City policy, federal, and state regulating entities.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS - Duties may include, but are not limited to:

• Develop and coordinate a working group of representatives from city departments who will implement homeless prevention and intervention strategies.
• Coordinate City's policies and activities with local, regional, state and federal homeless programs.
• Network with City departments and the business community to create expanded services and employment opportunities for homeless people; serve as liaison on homeless issues with non-profit and public agencies and coalitions.
• Advocate for greater support and expansion of homeless programs at all appropriate levels of government.
• Establish, maintain and enhance cooperative relationships with local service providers and the homeless community.
• Conduct and participate in public outreach and educational programs; advocate for and promote acceptance of homeless persons and/or programs in localities and neighborhoods.
• Maintain data and statistics on the City’s existing homeless population and services.
• Research and develop grants, donations and other funding sources; write reports.
• Operate a motor vehicle in the performance of assigned duties.
• Provide a presence and monitor homeless campsites throughout the City.
• Engage in conflict resolution with campers.
• Receive, investigate, and respond to complaints of violations of local and state laws, ordinances, or codes and regulations related to homeless campsites designated by the City.
• Interact with campers and members of the public in situations that may involve disputes regarding camp sites, outreach efforts, camp rules, and camp conditions.
• Analyze, evaluate, and interpret all City, state, and federal codes regarding homeless, public property camping, and public safety/health issues involving public property camping; explain and educate members of the public on laws as well as outreach efforts.
• Conduct interviews with campers and those who are in need of services to better assist in coordinating social services.
• Assists with and coordinate homeless outreach and engagement efforts; provide assistance to the homeless population.
• Participate in prevention activities by working with various departments, groups, and individuals on addressing issues, concerns, and complaints.
• Administer public information programs and education programs to inform campers and homeless of the social service programs and outreach efforts occurring in the City.
• Prepare and present information regarding social service and campers at administrative meetings as required.
• Coordinate and facilitate with other agencies and City departments regarding the needs of campers and the needs and conditions of the campsites.
• Confer with departments on initiatives, programs, and projects; provide input regarding strategic planning and implementation.
• Collaborate with staff to identify and seek co-sponsorship community outreach opportunities.
• Monitor homeless camp activities and notify city staff of any health, safety, and maintenance issues.
• Coordinate crews to clean up homeless campsites.
• Provide information to City management on emerging and urgent issues related to homeless campsites throughout the City.
• Maintain records and statistics related to homelessness. Performs other administrative tasks as needed.
• Drive City vehicles in a safe and knowledgeable manner.
• Build and maintain positive working relationships with co-workers, other City employees, and the public using principles of good customer service.
• Perform related duties as assigned.
• Manage funding associated with homeless programs and cleanup efforts.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Knowledge of:

• Basic principles and practices of service provision to the homeless.
• Program planning, development and coordination.
• Principles and practices of management, supervision and training.
• Community outreach, advocacy and public education.
• Methods and techniques of researching funding sources, fund raising and grant writing.
• Municipal government and organization.

Ability to:

• Work cooperatively with diverse agencies, service providers and community groups.
• Develop creative and effective solutions to complex problems and issues.
• Develop and implement goals, objectives, policies and procedures for programs.
• Coordinate activities with City staff and other agencies.
• Communicate effectively in both oral and written form.
• Prepare clear and concise research reports, correspondence and other written materials.
• Follow oral and written directions.
• Establish and maintain effective work relationships with those contacted in the performance of required duties.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Any combination of education and experience that is equivalent to the following minimum qualifications is acceptable:

Education:

Possession of a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in social sciences or a related field.

Experience:

Four years of progressively responsible experience in the field of social services with homeless or low income services. Experience working with diverse agencies and community groups in a local government or non-profit agency preferred.

LICENSE AND CERTIFICATES

Possession of a valid California Driver’s License in the category necessary to perform essential duties of the position will be required at the time of appointment. Individuals who do not meet this requirement due to a physical disability will be considered for accommodation on a case-by-case basis.

Maintenance of a valid California Driver’s license and proof of automobile liability insurance thereafter is a condition of continued employment.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Maintain the required physical abilities: See well enough to drive a vehicle; hear and speak well enough to converse on the telephone and in person; communicate clearly without amplification; bodily mobility to move rapidly from one area to another sometimes over uneven terrain; climb stairs or ladders; use of hands and fingers to write; operate a computer keyboard and handle plans and documents; stamina to work long hours and attend night meetings several times a week.