COMMUNITY RELATIONS SPECIALIST

Full Job Description

Applications Accepted From: All Persons Interested

Division: Public Health Branch
Location: Multiple Locations
Workdays & Hours: Monday- Friday; Nights/Weekends; hours are various*
*Subject to change*

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES/ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Organizes daily, weekly, and monthly activities to increase participant engagement and support program retention.

• Prepares, maintains, and submits accurate daily attendance logs for all program activities.

• Assesses participant needs related to meal distribution, transportation, and participation in evidence-based intervention programs for inclusion in monthly reports.

• Trains, coordinates, and supports site volunteers who assist with activity delivery and program operations.

• Maintains and monitors the social engagement of congregate meal program participants to promote socialization and overall well-being.

• Connects participants with community agencies and industry-related programs that enhance social engagement and service access.

• Assesses individual participant needs and documents circumstances requiring additional assistance or referral to support services and programs.

• Completes the required Food Manager certification course to support safe and compliant program operations.
  Performs special projects as assigned.
  
  

WORKING CONDITIONS
The position occasionally requires stooping or bending. Occasional very light lifting, such as three or four reams of papers or books (up to 20 pounds or an equivalent weight) may be required.

Requirements

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Basic knowledge of grammar, spelling, punctuation and simple mathematical functions like percentages, ratios, etc. as might normally be acquired through attainment of a high school diploma or a GED.

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS
Six (6) months of experience are required.

LICENSE REQUIREMENTS
May require a valid Driver's License and compliance with the City of Houston policy on driving (AP 2-2).

Qualifications

**Preference shall be given to eligible veteran applicants provided such persons possess the qualifications necessary for competent discharge of the duties involved in the position applied for, such persons are among the most qualified candidates for the position, and all other factors in accordance with Executive Order 1-6.**

• Experience organizing activities, events, or engagement programs for seniors or community-based participants.
• Experience working with congregate meal programs, social engagement programs, or evidence-based intervention activities.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build rapport and maintain participant engagement.
• Experience preparing attendance logs, tracking participation, and completing monthly program reports.
• Experience training, coordinating, or supervising volunteers.
• Knowledge of community resources, social service agencies, or programs that support older adults and individuals with social engagement needs.
• Ability to assess participant needs and determine when referrals to support services are appropriate.
• Strong organizational skills to manage daily, weekly, and monthly activity schedules.
• Ability to obtain or willingness to successfully complete the required Food Manager certification.
  
  

Additional Information

SELECTION/SKILLS TESTS REQUIRED None
However, the Department may administer a skills assessment test.

SAFETY IMPACT POSITION: Yes
If yes, this position is subject to random drug testing and if candidate is promoted into this position, he/she must pass an assigned drug test.

FUNDING INFORMATION - GRANT FUNDED
Grants & Special funded positions are dependent upon continued available funds. If funding is no longer available, employee may be laid off or transferred. Factors used in determining the salary offered include the candidate's qualifications as well as the pay rates of other employees in this classification.

Pay Grade 11

APPLICATION PROCEDURES
Only online applications will be accepted for this City of Houston job and must be received by the Human Resources Department during active posting period. Applications must be submitted online at: www.houstontx.gov.

To view your detailed application status, please log-in to your online profile by visiting: http://agency.governmentjobs.com/houston/default.cfm or call (832.395.8357).

If you need special services or accommodations, call 832.393.4888. (TTY 7-1-1)

If you need login assistance or technical support call 855-524-5627.

Due to the high volume of applications received, the Hiring Department will contact you directly, should you be selected to advance in our recruitment process.

All new and rehires must pass a pre-employment drug test and are subject to a physical examination and verification of information provided.

EOE - Equal Opportunity Employer
The City of Houston is 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, genetic information, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.