211 Transportation Specialist (Client and Community-Focused) (Full time, non-exempt)
We are looking for a helpful and supportive staff member to join the 211 Helpline team.
The 211 Helpline is a program of the Human Services Coalition of Tompkins County that connects people who are in need to the services that may help them.
This position will be part of the One Call One Click Center, a transportation assistance program at the 211 Helpline. This center will be a place for Tompkins County residents to receive information about all transportation services available in the community and assistance in using those services. This position will be responsible for building connections with transportation providers and employers, and managing a caseload of clients, providing solutions-focused assistance to meet individuals’ short- and long-term goals. The position will focus on individuals underserved by transportation services, individuals in rural communities, and inter/cross-county commuters without consistent access or affordable transportation options.
About the Human Services Coalition:
The Human Services Coalition (HSC) envisions a community that embraces the dignity and well-being of all people, supported by a vibrant not-for-profit sector. We are committed to creating an environment that is welcoming, inclusive, and supports the retention of passionate, talented employees, from a variety of personal and professional backgrounds. We strive to cultivate a workforce that represents the populations we serve.
HSC supports historically marginalized communities, and organizations that are led by and/or serve them. We join with other not-for-profit organizations to explore inequities in systems of institutional power and are working to dismantle them in the not-for-profit sector. We seek to meet the highest standard of performance, quality, and services as we work to achieve our mission. Please visit hsctc.org to learn more about our commitment to these values through our programs and work.
Duties of the Position:
- Receive training as a 211 Community Services Specialist, including on using 211 database systems and on providing information and referrals using multiple communication channels (such as phone, text message, email, chat, and in-person).
- Receive client inquiries or referrals. Gain an understanding of the client’s transportation needs and develop short- and long-term approaches to address these needs. Maintain a caseload of clients with complex transportation needs as appropriate.
- Develop connections with area transportation providers and receive training to learn service procedures for each provider.
- Help travelers by providing assistance, including bus passes, access to emergency ride services, and other supports for eligible participants.
- Conduct outreach and work closely with other project partners and transportation providers.
- Other duties as designated in the full job description (.pdf).
This position will collaborate with another open position at 211 that will focus more on volunteer transportation services. For more information on the Volunteer Transportation Network Development-Focused position, please see its job posting. Applicants will be considered for both positions unless you indicate your interest in only one of the positions.
Qualifications:
If you are interested in the work described in this posting, we strongly encourage you to apply, even if you do not meet all the listed qualifications.
- Strong verbal communication skills and comfort with communicating in person and by phone, email, text message, and other mediums. Able to present to groups and meet with clients, employers and transit providers. Written ability to keep case notes, contribute to reports, and develop outreach materials.
- Comfort with computers and web-based systems. Familiarity with databases, Microsoft Office, and Google Apps a plus.
- Knowledge of or interest in learning the human services network. Knowledge of area transportation providers, services, and/or barriers is preferred.
- Self-directed, and able to work well independently as well as part of a team.
- Creative thinking, sharing ideas that will help ensure project success.
- Demonstration of a helpful, positive, and nonjudgmental approach, showing respect and fairness for each client and for all stakeholders.
Pay Rate & Benefits:
$24/hour. Non-exempt, full-time, 37.5 hours per week. This position is funded through a year-long government contract that is renewable based on successful performance.
HSC offers a cafeteria benefit plan with employer contributions that can be used towards medical, dental and/or vision insurance, Health Savings Account contributions, or taken as taxable income. HSC also offers a 403(b) retirement account, an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), and generous time off, with paid holidays, vacation, and sick time.
Consistent with the Human Services Coalition’s Hybrid Work Policy, a flexible, hybrid schedule (in-office and remote) may be possible. Some in-office hours are required. Remote work requires access to high-speed internet and router.
After an initial training period, evening hours (currently until 8:00 pm) will be required in order to provide customer service to commuters and full-time workers outside of business hours. Final schedule to be determined in conjunction with supervisor.
For the full job description, please see this link (pdf).
How to Apply:
Email a resume and cover letter to Tamara Beardsley at tbeardsley@hsctc.org. The deadline for submissions is February 7, 2025.
In your cover letter, please include answers to the following: 1) What is your interest in this position and in helping people in the community? 2) Describe the professional or personal lived experiences that make you a strong candidate for this position. Feel free to include any knowledge you have about transportation and social care systems in Tompkins County or how you might learn about them.
HSC is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace and encourages applications from people from all backgrounds, ages, races, ethnicities, gender identities, and abilities.
If you are interested in the work described in this posting, we strongly encourage you to apply, even if you do not meet all the listed qualifications. We value experience in the field and recognize that there are a variety of ways that relevant experience can be gained. Candidates should include experience gained through internships, volunteer work, lived experience, and community involvement beyond paid positions related to this position.
All hiring, appointments, promotions, and terms/conditions of employment shall be made on the basis of merit and without discrimination, including but not limited to biases of color, race, national or ethnic origin, gender, creed, sexual orientation or affectation, gender identity, marital status, age, religious preference, disability, economic status, political beliefs or veteran status.
The Human Services Coalition is an equal opportunity and Living Wage employer.