Desk Clerk/Housing Assistant

Met Council is America’s largest Jewish charity dedicated to serving the needy. We fight poverty through comprehensive social services and by treating each client with compassion, integrity, and respect. Our programs are staffed by experts who help over 325,000 clients each year and advocate on behalf of all needy New Yorkers. Our services include 100% affordable housing at 21 locations, family violence services, Holocaust survivor assistance, geriatric social work, crisis intervention and the largest free kosher food distribution program in the world. Our network of 101 food pantries, affordable housing sites, and affiliated JCCs provide services directly in neighborhoods across New York City.

Position Summary:

The Desk Clerk/Housing Assistant is responsible for ensuring the safety and well-being of residents and visitors while managing the front desk. The Desk Clerk/Housing Assistant will act as a key point of contact for residents, handle inquiries, and perform routine checks on the property. This role requires excellent customer service skills, effective communication, and the ability to handle various administrative and security-related tasks.

Please note: This position is an on-site position based out of residential buildings located in Sea Gate, Brooklyn, NY 11224.

Principal Responsibilities:

• Provide front desk coverage by greeting residents and visitors in a professional manner, answering phone calls, and directing inquiries to the appropriate staff member.
• Make copies, handle mail distribution, schedule appointments for staff and residents, and manage other clerical tasks as needed.
• Listen to residents' concerns, refer them to the appropriate staff member, and provide assistance as needed.
• Distribute notices to tenants and remind them about upcoming events or deadlines.
• Screen all visitors and guests and document details into a security log, ensuring accurate record-keeping.
• Conduct regular inspections of the building, walking through all floors to ensure the premises remain secure (at least two times per shift).
• Write clear and accurate incident reports when required.
• Distribute work orders, ensuring all maintenance and repair requests are communicated and followed up with the appropriate staff.
• Assist with responding to emergencies, including fire drills, medical emergencies, and police-related incidents, ensuring proper procedures are followed.
• Notify the superintendent in case of emergencies and escalate issues as appropriate.
• Additional responsibilities as required.

Competencies:

• Strong attention to detail with the ability to accurately document and maintain logs, incident reports, and work orders.
• Ability to assess situations, identify potential problems, and take appropriate action, including referring issues to the relevant staff members.
• Ability to maintain professionalism when dealing with residents and visitors, ensuring their needs are met while maintaining a safe environment.
• Understanding of security protocols and the ability to react calmly and effectively in emergencies.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously while prioritizing responsibilities.
• Ability to build relationships, establishing and maintaining positive working relationships with others.

Skill and Education:

• High School diploma or equivalent (required); Associate’s degree (preferred)
• 2 years of relevant experience in customer service, security, or administrative support (required)
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and other relevant software

Compensation: $20 per hour.

Benefits: Major medical, dental, vision and life insurance; pre-tax commuter benefits; FSA; 403(b) with employer contribution; plus generous vacation, sick leave and holidays.