Are you ready to make a difference in our community? At Jewish Community Services of South Florida (JCS), you’ll join a team of passionate professionals dedicated to making a positive impact in the lives of those we serve. Joining our team means contributing to a well-respected organization with over a century of service to the South Florida community, rooted in the values of compassion, inclusivity, and resilience. Our team members find purpose in empowering individuals and families through meaningful programs and initiatives. We foster a collaborative environment where your talents are valued, and you’ll have opportunities for personal and professional growth. If you’re looking to be part of an organization that values your contributions and promotes a culture of unity and support, JCS is the place to be.

The Intake Counselor serves as the first point of contact for individuals and families seeking services. This position involves conducting professional intake and assessment interviews, primarily via telephone, but also in person, to evaluate clients’ needs and determine the most appropriate level of care or referral. The Intake Counselor provides information, emotional support, and linkage to agency programs or community resources that promote client well-being. This role requires strong interpersonal communication skills, cultural sensitivity, the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment, and a comprehensive understanding of community resources and behavioral health systems. The Intake Counselor must be able to engage clients compassionately while maintaining professional boundaries and accurate documentation. Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish is required.

Essential DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

Client Assessment and Engagement

• Conduct initial intake and needs assessments with individuals and families seeking assistance, utilizing trauma-informed and culturally competent approaches
• Gather and document detailed information regarding clients’ presenting concerns, including emotional, behavioral, financial, housing, and social needs
• Identify whether clients require clinical, case management, or other supportive services within the agency or through external community providers
• Engage clients with empathy, professionalism, and respect to establish rapport and foster trust

Information, Referral, and Resource Coordination

• Provide accurate information and referral (I&R) services, connecting clients to appropriate community resources such as behavioral health programs, housing, food assistance, employment support, and healthcare services
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of community resources, eligibility requirements, and agency programs
• Collaborate with internal departments to ensure smooth coordination and continuity of care for clients referred internally

Documentation and Administrative Responsibilities

• Ensure that all client interactions, referrals, and outcomes are accurately documented in the agency database or case management system within required timeframes
• Respond promptly to incoming calls, voicemails, and referrals while managing multiple priorities and maintaining excellent customer service
• Uphold confidentiality and ethical standards in accordance with agency policy, HIPAA, and relevant regulations

Collaboration and Professional Development

• Participate in departmental and inter-agency meetings, trainings, and supervision sessions
• Represent the agency at community events, outreach initiatives, and networking meetings as needed
• Perform other duties as assigned by the supervisor or agency leadership

SUPERVISION:

This position has no supervisory responsibilities.

We are proud to offer a competitive benefits package to all full-time employees, including medical and dental plans. A generous vacation and holiday pay benefit and a 401(k) match is available. Staff receives monthly in-service training and CEU opportunities. This is a one of a kind opportunity for leadership in talent management to contribute to a team of mindful, caring and passionate people at work every day in service to our community!

ABOUT: Jewish Community Services of South Florida (JCS) is the foremost non-profit, human services agency whose mission is to improve the quality of life and self-sufficiency of the Jewish and broader communities throughout South Florida in accordance with Jewish values. Founded in 1920, JCS delivers exemplary social services through compassionate and comprehensive programs that help people stay healthy and productive.

JCS is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization and equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, disability, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, or veteran status.

JCS strictly enforces a Drug-Free Workplace Policy, which prohibits the use, possession, distribution, or sale of controlled substances and alcohol on company premises, during work hours, or while representing the company. Pre-employment and random drug testing may be required as part of our commitment to a drug-free workplace.

All of Senior Management and Managers are required to actively participate in JCS' Milk and Honey, Matzah Mitzvah and other similar events. These events are essential to our organizational culture, and leadership participation is key to fostering team unity, supporting our values, and engaging with our community. By attending, managers and supervisors help set the standard for involvement and demonstrate our commitment to these meaningful traditions.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Social Work, Human Services, Counseling, or related field required; Master’s degree preferred
• Minimum three (3) years of experience in social services, behavioral health, or community outreach; experience in intake, assessment, case coordination, or crisis response highly desirable
• Strong verbal and written communication skills with the ability to engage diverse populations and maintain professionalism, empathy, and confidentiality
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and data entry systems
• Knowledge of community resources, human service systems, and referral processes; knowledge of the Jewish community a plus
• Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and sound judgment
• Ability to manage multiple priorities effectively and work both independently and as part of a team
• Demonstrated cultural humility and sensitivity when working with diverse populations
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) required
• Must have a car and a valid Florida Driver’s License with proof of insurance in accordance with agency requirements and have the ability to travel within Miami-Dade County