09/21/2026
Intake Specialist – Ministry Job Description
Position Title
Intake Specialist
Reports To
Program Director or Executive Director
Employment Status
Part-Time
Position Summary
The Intake Specialist serves as the compassionate first point of contact for individuals and families seeking assistance through the ministry. This role is responsible for welcoming guests, conducting comprehensive needs assessments, gathering required documentation, coordinating referrals, and connecting participants to ministry programs and community resources.
Guided by biblical principles and the philosophy of "Hand Up Over Handout" the Intake Specialist seeks to empower individuals toward long-term stability, self-sufficiency, and spiritual growth while preserving dignity and fostering meaningful relationships.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Guest Engagement & Hospitality
• Welcome every guest with warmth, respect, and Christ-centered compassion.
• Create an environment where participants feel safe, valued, and heard.
• Explain ministry services, eligibility requirements, and expectations clearly.
• Demonstrate empathy while maintaining healthy boundaries and accountability.
Intake & Needs Assessment
• Conduct thorough intake interviews to identify immediate and long-term needs.
• Complete intake forms accurately and maintain current participant records.
• Verify eligibility and collect supporting documentation.
• Assess barriers related to food insecurity, housing, employment, transportation, finances, education, and family stability.
• Identify participant strengths, skills, and opportunities for growth.
Mission Hub Navigation
Connect participants with appropriate ministry programs including:
• Food Pantry
• Clothing Closet
• Budget Coaching
• Financial Education
• Job Readiness
• Life Skills Training
• Housing Assistance
• Spiritual Care
• Volunteer Opportunities
• Family Support Programs
Coordinate referrals to outside agencies when specialized services are needed.
Case Coordination
• Schedule appointments with coaches, volunteers, and ministry leaders.
• Track participant progress and follow-up activities.
• Maintain communication with staff regarding participant needs.
• Ensure continuity of care across all ministry services.
Data Management & Documentation
• Maintain confidential participant files.
• Enter accurate data into ministry software systems.
• Generate reports for leadership and grant compliance.
• Protect sensitive information in accordance with ministry policies.
• Monitor service utilization and participant outcomes.
Relationship-Based Ministry
• Encourage participants to engage in coaching and educational opportunities.
• Promote responsibility, stewardship, and personal ownership.
• Help individuals develop practical action plans toward independence.
• Build trust through consistent follow-up and encouragement.
Volunteer Support
• Assist in training intake volunteers.
• Provide guidance on intake procedures and hospitality standards.
• Support volunteer scheduling during ministry events.
• Help maintain consistency in guest interactions.
Prayer & Spiritual Care
• Offer prayer when welcomed by participants.
• Share biblical encouragement and ministry resources appropriately.
• Connect guests with pastors, mentors, or discipleship opportunities.
• Model Christian values through every interaction.
Qualifications
Education
• High school diploma or GED required.
• Associate or bachelor's degree in social work, ministry, nonprofit management, counseling, or related field preferred.
Experience
• Experience in nonprofit ministry, church operations, social services, customer service, or case management preferred.
• Experience working with vulnerable populations strongly preferred.
• Spanish language proficiency required
Required Skills
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills
• Active listening and interviewing techniques
• Compassion balanced with accountability
• Organization and attention to detail
• Strong documentation and data entry skills
• Problem-solving and critical thinking
• Ability to maintain confidentiality
• Time management and multitasking
• Conflict resolution and de-escalation
• Computer proficiency with databases and Microsoft Office or Google Workspace
Core Competencies
The Intake Specialist consistently demonstrates:
• Christ-centered servant leadership
• Integrity and professionalism
• Respect for human dignity
• Emotional intelligence
• Cultural humility
• Team collaboration
• Dependability
• Adaptability
• Wisdom and discernment
• Commitment to continuous improvement
Physical Requirements
• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods.
• Frequent use of computers and office equipment.
• Occasional lifting of up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to move throughout ministry facilities and outreach events.
Ministry Philosophy
The Intake Specialist is expected to embody the ministry's commitment to transformational care by:
• Treating every individual as an image-bearer of God with inherent dignity and potential.
• Prioritizing relationships over transactions.
• Seeking restoration rather than dependency.
• Encouraging participants to use their gifts and abilities to overcome challenges.
• Walking alongside families through coaching, discipleship, and practical support instead of providing one-time relief alone.
Mission Statement for the Role
"The Intake Specialist exists to welcome every person with the love of Christ, assess needs with compassion and wisdom, and connect individuals to pathways that foster hope, responsibility, and lasting transformation through a hand-up approach that empowers lives and strengthens communities."
Success in This Role
A successful Intake Specialist is more than an administrator—they are a trusted guide who helps individuals move from crisis to stability by listening well, coordinating resources effectively, and inspiring participants to pursue sustainable change through faith, accountability, and community support.
