Department DescriptionThe PATH program (Projects for Assistance in Transition from Homelessness) is a program designed to increase outreach and assistance to persons with serious mental illness who are homeless or at imminent risk of becoming homeless. This position does outreach and case management with persons experiencing homelessness. Case management services can be provided up to one year following housing only if specifically requested by the client (These individuals often have a history of chronic homelessness and may have little recent experience in independent living. This position assists in successfully transitioning from homelessness. Case Managers assist clients to secure funding, food, transportation, medical services, and other social services as needed. Connecting and referring to community mental health and substance use treatment centers is another key function. Case Managers may assist clients in learning the basic skills to live independently in an apartment once housing is secured. The PATH team is a partner in the Coordinated Entry System in Pierce County. Case Managers will complete a vulnerability assessment and enter data collected into HMIS (Homeless Management Information System). Essential Functions Provides outreach, screening and provisional diagnosis to individuals who are in areas where homeless are known to congregate, and to specific areas identified by community partners. Assists homeless clients, as needed and wanted, to obtain housing, medical services, mental health counseling, alcohol and drug treatment, job training, and educational services. Provides effective case management services to assure appropriate client-centered care. Coordinates and maintains effective working relationships with contracting organizations and/or other community providers. Assures that all administrative and clinical documentation, written and online, is completed in a thorough, accurate, timely and appropriate manner. Secondary Functions May provide back-up assistance to other Case Managers as assigned. Attend all Program and Agency mandated trainings and meetings. Job Scope Works under general supervision of the AOS Manager. Manages a caseload of clients in a highly competent and professional manner. Work involves a significant variety of non-routine tasks of moderate complexity which are guided by formal policies and general procedures. While this position has limited direct budgetary accountability, errors in work can have significant impact on customer service, outcomes, and liability implications. Communication / Customer Contacts Knowledge and understanding of mental disorders, including the ability to do provisional diagnoses; an ability to develop and implement treatment plans, based on client need and level of functioning; a basic understanding of substance use disorder; a thorough knowledge of community resources, with the ability to develop appropriate links for consumers; a sensitive perception of the needs of individuals with disabilities; a keen understanding of the importance of clear, professional boundaries, and maintenance of such; possession of proven teamwork skills; good written and oral communication skills; entry-level computer skills; an ability to work independently effectively and efficiently in the community; and demonstration of good, common sense. Must have a reliable automobile; possess a Washington State Driver's License, a good driving record, and provide proof of auto insurance; and ability to drive agency van.Education and/or Experience High school diploma/GED and 1 year of relevant experience. Associates degree preferred. Experience working with chronically homeless individuals with mental illness preferred. Must be eligible for a Washington State Department of Health Agency Affiliated Counselor Registration credential. Job ConditionsWhile some work is performed in an office setting, this is a very physically active position, with most of the work performed in the community, including meeting with clients in the community, libraries, in the street and in encampments. Must be able to go into client's residences and encampments, which may require climbing stairs and walking on uneven terrain. Incumbents must be able to bend, twist, squat, reach overhead, and lift 20 pounds. Must be able to speak and hear at normal conversational levels. #LI-JG1

Position Type: Full-Time Regular
Full Time Employee: Yes
Primary Shift: Day
Work Schedule: Day shift