Job Details

Jackson County Library Services

RESOURCE SPECIALIST

40 HOURS- ASHLAND/MEDFORD

NON-EXEMPT

$19.79 TO $24.79 PER HOUR

CLOSES APRIL 24, 2023 - OPEN UNTIL FILLED

Full job description and OFFICIAL application available ONLY at: https://jcls.pshire.com/jobs/367.html

THE POSITION

The Resource Specialist works under the direction of the Social Worker to address the systemic issues and needs faced by library patrons, providing appropriate support and intervention to minimize behavior incidents. Provides services to disengaged, marginalized, or at-risk populations while also working to maintain a safe, secure, and pleasant environment for library patrons and staff through the enforcement of policies and procedures while keeping in mind the library's objectives for access and equitable treatment for all. 

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Works with staff at assigned library location(s) to ensure the security and safety of all library patrons and staff members, including frequent visits through the entire facility to ensure safety and security.

• Works with staff at assigned library location(s) to provide information, support, referrals, and assistance to at-risk, vulnerable youth and adult patrons who are experiencing mental health, addiction, homelessness, or issues of general exclusion or disengagement.

• Serves as a resource and model to library staff on how to work effectively with challenging behaviors.

• Assists the Social Worker in working with community members and agencies to address the systemic issues and needs faced by at-risk library patrons.

• Connects and builds rapport with library patrons through roving services, creating an environment of empathy and goodwill that establishes boundaries for appropriate use of library resources.

• Communicates with community members in order to understand their needs and share information that may be relevant to library services.

• Provides excellent customer service to all staff and patrons.

• Responds to incidents and emergencies; defuses conflicts among library patrons and proactively works to deescalate situations.

• Closes and secures the library and may open the library. May occasionally walk staff members to their cars.

• Writes reports and gathers information to be shared with staff, and which may be used in a court of law to prosecute offenders.

• Adheres to confidentiality and privacy standards set by JCLS and Social Worker.

• Contacts Police as needed, including filing complaints and making court appearances.

• Maintains professional working relationships with local law enforcement personnel.

• May participate in training of new safety and resource staff members.

• Participates in safety and security meetings.

Reads professional literature and maintains working knowledge of latest trends in the field of library security and social services.

Regular attendance.

Perform other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Ability to communicate effectively and kindly with both patrons and staff, in person, on the phone and in writing;

• Ability to keep a log and record incidents accurately and thoroughly, filling out forms as required;

• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with a diverse group of patrons and staff throughout the Library and outside the organization;

• Ability to effectively deescalate a wide variety of conflicts;

• Ability to recognize the need to call law enforcement when necessary;

• Knowledge of resources and social services in Jackson County;

• Skill in addressing the needs of unhoused or at-risk individuals.

• Skill in providing strong, dedicated, and compassionate service.

• Ability to thrive in a working environment with constant public contact with people from all backgrounds and age groups.

• Ability to take initiative and direction and to work independently.

• Ability to model positive attitude, excellent interpersonal skills, cultural sensitivity, and a sense of humor in working with customers, coworkers, and community.

• Ability to solve problems creatively and to negotiate and handle stressful situations in a positive manner.

• Ability to exercise reasonable and professional judgment.

• Ability to use extensive workplace technology including email, internet, database, and other software.

• Read, comprehend, and analyze internal policies and procedures, manuals, rules, regulations, journals, memos, letters, reports and legal documents;

• Ability to multi-task many variable duties, requests and responsibilities;

• Use computers and other office equipment, effectively and efficiently;

• Keep sensitive information confidential;

• Manage records and information in any format, in accordance with applicable statutes, regulations and District policy, guidance and records retention schedule.

• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, after-hours and holidays.

QUALIFICATIONS

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• High School Diploma or GED.

• One year of social services experience.

• One year of work experience with safety and security.

• Customer service experience.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS/LICENSES

• Criminal background check required.

• Must be able to travel to other locations to perform work, and/or attend work-related meetings, workshops or conferences.