Program Specialist -Reception/Resource Navigator

Program Specialist -Reception/Resource NavigatorThe purpose of this position is to serve as the first point of contact for individuals and families visiting or contacting CSET's rural community offices. This position provides front-desk reception, administrative support, and basic resource navigation to help community members identify and connect with available programs and services.This position will support access to community resources, including food assistance, employment services, housing resources, health and human services, and other basic-needs programs. The employee maintains current resource information, assists with general inquiries, refers individuals to appropriate CSET staff or outside service providers, and helps maintain an organized, welcoming, and professional office environment.The employee must demonstrate professionalism, confidentiality, cultural sensitivity, and respect for individuals from diverse backgrounds, including residents who may experience language barriers, transportation challenges, limited access to technology, or other barriers to services.Reception and Customer ServiceGreet visitors and provide a welcoming, respectful, and professional first point of contactAnswer incoming telephone calls, respond to general inquiries, take accurate messages, and direct calls to appropriate staffAssist walk-in customers with identifying the purpose of their visit and connecting with the appropriate CSET program or staff memberMaintain the reception area, visitor information, sign-in procedures, and general office organizationFollow established office procedures, including opening and closing duties, as assignedSchedule appointments or assist with appointment coordination when authorizedCommunicate office hours, service availability, and general program information accuratelyResource Navigation and ReferralsAssist individuals and families in identifying available community resources based on their stated needsMaintain and use current resource directories, referral lists, program information, and community resource bindersProvide information about food distribution, emergency assistance, housing resources, employment services, copies/faxes, and other basic-needs resourcesContact community organizations or service providers, when appropriate, to confirm current service availability, hours, eligibility requirements, required documents, and referral procedures; ensure that service and resource information is updated in the Service Binder located in each officeRefer individuals to appropriate CSET program staff, partner agencies, or other service providersProvide information in a clear, respectful, and culturally responsive manner, including Spanish-language assistanceDocument referrals and customer contacts according to established procedures and privacy requirementsFollow up on referrals when assigned and help individuals understand the next steps for accessing servicesRecognize when a request requires specialized assistance and promptly refer the individual to qualified program staffAdministrative and Office SupportMaintain organized resource materials, brochures, forms, and community service informationAssist with data entry, copying, scanning, filing, appointment logs, and other routine administrative tasksMaintain accurate records of calls, visitors, referrals, and services provided, as requiredAssist with updating office resource binders and electronic resource directoriesSupport outreach activities, community announcements, and distribution of approved program information as assignedCommunicate recurring service gaps, community needs, and resource availability concerns to the supervisorCustomer Privacy, Safety, and Professional ConductProtect confidential and sensitive customer information and follow CSET policies and applicable privacy requirementsCollect only the information necessary for authorized duties and avoid discussing private customer information in public areasFollow established procedures for handling difficult interactions, safety concerns, emergencies, and customer complaintsTreat all individuals fairly and respectfully, without discrimination or judgmentAvoid guaranteeing benefits, eligibility, appointments, or services before confirmation by the responsible program or service providerMaintain appropriate professional boundaries and refer eligibility determinations and specialized case-management matters to authorized staffTeam Communication and Office OperationsCommunicate customer needs, referral concerns, and operational issues to the supervisor or designated staffCoordinate with CSET program personnel to ensure customers are directed to the appropriate servicesFollow established office procedures and participate in training and staff meetings as assignedComplete assigned duties within the approved temporary work scheduleSkills & AbilitiesAbility to communicate professionally in person and by telephoneBasic computer skills, including email, data entry, and common office applicationsAbility to organize information, maintain accurate records, and follow established proceduresAbility to communicate respectfully with people from diverse cultural, economic, and language backgroundsAbility to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment when handling customer informationAbility to work independently on routine assignments and seek guidance when neededStrong customer service and interpersonal communication skillsClear verbal and written communicationOrganization, attention to detail, and accurate recordkeepingBasic problem-solving and resource research skillsAbility to manage multiple tasks and prioritize customer needsRespect for confidentiality, diversity, and individual dignityAbility to recognize the limits of the position and refer complex questions to appropriate staffWillingness to learn CSET programs, office procedures, and community referral resourcesBilingual communication skills in English and Spanish (preferred)Education and/or ExperienceOne year of previous experience in reception, customer service, clerical support, community services, or a related field preferredHigh school diploma or equivalentCurrent driver's licensePreferred:Experience working in a rural community office, nonprofit organization, family resource center, or social services settingFamiliarity with Tulare County community resources and referral networksExperience maintaining resource directories, tracking referrals, or assisting individuals with accessing public or community servicesWork Conditions & EnvironmentMust have the visual ability to perform detailed work at close distances (computer screens)Must be able to sit for long periodsMust be able to bend, stoop, and reachMust be able to perform substantial movements (motions) of the wrists, hands, and/or fingersMust be able to exert physical effort in light work involving lifting, carrying, pushing, and pullingMust be able to read, understand, and explain various forms and written materialCompensationPay Range: $19.29 - 20.67 per hour, depending on qualifications and experience.

This is a part-time position classified as Non-Exempt under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and is eligible for overtime pay in accordance with California and federal law. Overtime requires prior supervisor approval.Equal Opportunity EmployerCSET is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, ancestry, medical condition, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

CSET complies with the California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) and will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the Fair Chance Act. Reasonable accommodations are available for applicants and employees with disabilities upon request.