Bilingual Receptionist

ABOUT SAMU FIRST RESPONSE

SAMU First Response is a global medical and social nonprofit organization that provides immediate humanitarian relief to vulnerable populations using a comprehensive and culturally competent approach. Grupo SAMU, our European branch, has over 40 years of experience successfully responding and delivering assistance to communities experiencing complex crises.

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

Given the migration crisis at the U.S.-Mexico border, SAMU First Response is operating a 24/7 program designed to address the acute needs of asylum seekers and migrants passing through the DC area. SAMU works with local government and partner organizations to ensure that newcomers have access to comprehensive services, including food, clothing, hygiene facilities, transportation, medical/legal support, and short-term respite.

ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The Bilingual Receptionist is crucial in maintaining the smooth operation of our center’s entrance, ensuring a welcoming and efficient environment for all who come through our doors. The Receptionist will manage the sign-in and sign-out processes for staff, vendors, and residents and provide exemplary customer service.

• Greet and welcome all staff, vendors, clients, and visitors in a warm and friendly manner.
• Manage the sign-in and sign-out processes, ensuring accurate record-keeping of all individuals entering and exiting the facility.
• Track and compile weekly reports on the hours worked by the security team, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.
• Communicate effectively with various parties within the building, including staff, residents, and maintenance vendors, to coordinate the arrival and departure of outside visitors.
• Perform administrative tasks as needed, including answering phone calls, responding to emails, and maintaining organized records.
• Providing basic information to clients, alerting Service Specialists when clients require more specialized referrals and orientation, and notifying logistics staff of any urgent/ongoing needs or issues.
• Conducting group sessions, as approved by the direct supervisor.
• Treating clients, visitors, and other staff members with dignity, always upholding confidentiality.
• Escalating issues to the direct supervisor or a member of the leadership team, as necessary.
• Other duties, as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS

• High school diploma and at least 2 years of work experience. Additional certification in Office Management or a related field is a plus.
• Fluency in English and a second language (preferably Spanish, French, or Portuguese).
• Proven experience in a receptionist or administrative role, preferably in a nonprofit or community service setting.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to multitask effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• High level of professionalism and a compassionate approach to customer service.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information with discretion.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and familiarity with database management.
• Able to thrive in a fast-paced, multicultural environment.

PSHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Use of manual dexterity, tactile, visual, and audio acuity.
• Use of repetitive motion, prolonged periods of sitting, and sustained visual and mental applications and demands.
• Occasional lifting (up to 25 pounds), bending, pulling, and carrying.

Equal Opportunity employer: SAMU First Response is an Equal Employment Opportunity (“EEO”) Employer. SAMU does not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, gender, gender identity, pregnancy, marital status, partnership status, domestic violence victim status, sexual orientation, age, national origin, citizenship status, veteran or military status, disability, medical condition, genetic information, caregiver status, unemployment status or any other characteristic prohibited by federal, state and/or local laws.