Temp Front Desk Receptionist

POSITION: Front Desk Receptionist (Temp) 

LOCATION: Pioneer Office, San Jose   

STATUS: Temporary/Full-time/Non-Exempt  

COMPENSATION: $25-30/hourly 

ABOUT HOMEFIRST 

Established in 1980, HomeFirst™ is a nonprofit organization passionately working to end homelessness. We serve the Bay Area community through low-barrier programming and systems leadership – meeting each person where they are by offering support and resources that address immediate and long-term housing needs. With nearly 45 years of experience, we view housing as a fundamental human right and understand that solving homelessness requires a collaborative effort. 

OUR VALUES 

• Kindness: We act with empathy toward others. 

• Passion: We ignite change to fulfill our mission. 

• Excellence: We deliver exceptional service to our communities. 

POSITION OVERVIEW 

We are seeking a highly organized and detail-oriented Front Desk Receptionist to serve as the first point of contact for visitors, clients, and employees. This position is responsible for creating a welcoming environment, managing incoming calls, coordinating office logistics, and providing information about programs and services. This temporary work assignment has been determined to be from January 2026 through June 2026.  

REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS 

This role will be reporting to the Temporary Executive Assistant to COO & CPO.  

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES 

• Greet and assist visitors, clients, & community partners in a professional and courteous manner. 

• Answer, screen, and direct phone calls to appropriate departments or staff. 

• Provide basic information about the organization’s services, intake procedures, and community resources. 

• Manage incoming and outgoing mail, packages, & deliveries. 

• Maintain the reception area’s cleanliness and professional appearance. 

• Maintain confidentiality and adhere to all privacy and safety protocols. 

• Document Preparation: Creating, editing, and formatting reports, presentations, and other documents in various software suites.  

• Conduct various research activities as needed.  

• Responsible for creating employee badges for the entire agency. 

• Draft, edit, and send agency-wide internal communications in a clear, professional format as needed.  

• Include managing a central inbox, responding to inquiries, and directing emails to the correct department. 

• Responsible for updating the organizational chart. 

• Supports staff with booking, managing, and coordinating meeting room reservations. 

• Attends Agency Events as assigned. 

• Other duties as assigned. 

Skills, Abilities, and Knowledge  

• Excellent customer service ability  

• Strong time management skills  

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with an ability to de-escalate tense situations calmly and respectfully. 

• Strong organizational skills with the ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment. 

• Self-starter with a proactive approach and a problem-solving mindset.  

• Reliable Personal Vehicle Transportation  

• Ability to lift up to 20 lbs (on occasion)  

Characteristics  

• Sensitivity to the needs of those experiencing homelessness   

• Desire to work with others from varying economic and social backgrounds, with a focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion 

• Dependable, collaborative, and professional   

• Proactive and mission-driven, and Life-long learner.  

BENEFITS 

Although your role is temporary, HomeFirst provides comprehensive benefits, including 100% employer-paid medical, dental, and vision coverage and additional wellness options like chiropractic care, mental health support, pet insurance, and an Employee Assistance Program.   

ORGANIZATIONAL EQUITY STATEMENT  

At HomeFirst, diversity, equity, and inclusion guide our services, workplace, and decisions. Recognizing housing as a social justice issue, we prioritize equitable practices, honor lived experiences and uphold dignity for all. By fostering belonging, accountability, and continuous improvement, we embed DEI values in our processes, recruitment, and leadership, striving for excellence at every level. 

HomeFirst is proud to be an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer and considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by law. We also consider qualified applicants with criminal histories consistent with applicable federal, state, and local law. Additionally, HomeFirst participates in the E-Verify program, as required by law. 

HomeFirst is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in our job application process. If you need assistance or accommodation due to a disability, please let your recruiter know. 

QUALIFICATIONS (YOU HAVE) 

Education and Experience   
Although we value academic achievement, we recognize and celebrate individual journeys; therefore, experience and knowledge are prioritized. 

• 1–2 years of experience in a receptionist, front desk, or administrative role. 

• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook). 

• Professional appearance and positive attitude. 

• Ability to maintain confidentiality and demonstrate discretion.