City of Austin - JOB DESCRIPTION

Homeless Strategy Deputy Officer

Under the general direction of the Homeless Strategy Officer, the Deputy Officer will oversee the effective leadership, strategic planning, and management of multiple activities and operations of the Homeless Strategy Office. This position creates and executes policies included in City ordinances, resolutions, administrative regulations, and State law.

1. Supports the Homeless Strategy Officer in leading and managing programs, functions, and initiatives to ensure effectiveness and efficient delivery of services to individuals experiencing homelessness.
2. Collaborates with City leadership, outside agencies, and the community to develop and implement effective, data-informed strategies, policies, and initiatives aimed at making homelessness rare, brief, and non-recurring.
3. Oversees the development and implementation of policies, procedures, and best practices for homeless services, ensuring compliance with City, State, and Federal regulations.
4. Assists in the planning, development, and administration of the department’s budget; forecasts funds needed for staffing, equipment, materials and supplies; approves expenditures; and implements budgetary adjustments as appropriate and necessary.
5. Fosters and maintains strong relationships with City departments; Local, State, and Federal agencies; community organizations; and service providers to support and improve homelessness strategies.
6. Responds to urgent issues related to homelessness, including incidents involving vulnerable populations, program challenges, or public concerns.
7. Contributes to the Continuum of Care (CoC) program, ensuring City-funded services are aligned with best practices and federal funding requirements.
8. Ensures accurate reporting and tracking of program outcomes through the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS) and City databases, using data to drive improvements in program delivery and efficiency.
9. Serves as a lead expert on the City’s homelessness strategy and investments, presenting key programs, initiatives, and strategic direction to the City Manager, Mayor, City Council, department directors, and community stakeholders.

Responsible for the full range of supervisory activities, including selection, training, evaluation, counseling and recommendation for dismissal.

• Knowledge of business case development, strategic business planning, reengineering, organizational change strategies, performance measurement, and project management.
• Knowledge of fiscal planning and budget preparation.
• Knowledge of Federal, State, and Local laws.
• Knowledge of City practices, policies, and procedures.
• Knowledge of City Council mandates and municipal needs.
• Knowledge of supervisory and managerial techniques and principles.
• Skill in oral and written communication.
• Skill in handling multiple tasks and prioritizing.
• Skill in using computers and related software.
• Skill in data analysis and problem solving.
• Skill in planning and organizing.
• Skill in handling conflict and uncertain situations.
• Ability to manage and/or develop grant funding opportunities.
• Ability to analyze and resolve irregular events.
• Ability to give public presentations.
• Ability to work with frequent interruptions and changes in priorities.
• Ability to establish and maintain good working relationships with City employees and the public.
• Ability to work in partnership with stakeholders and constituents.
• Ability to work with diverse populations, groups, and staff.
• Ability to use critical thinking and apply cultural sensitivity to interactions with the general public.
• Ability to develop strategic direction and program implementation collaboratively with various stakeholder and community groups.

• Graduation with a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in human services, public administration, business, or related field, plus five (5) years of experience at services programs in homelessness, social services, low-income housing and community development, or administration, including at least two (2) years of experience in a management capacity.
• Graduation with a Master’s degree from an accredited college or university may substitute for non-management experience up to a maximum of two (2) years.