Housing Specialist

GENERAL JOB DESCRIPTION Reports to: Social Services Director / HSS Department: Social Services FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Employment Status: Full-Time Position Title: Housing Specialist Position Status: Essential Home/Life Services Inc. established in 1995, is a community-based, human services organization committed to improving the economic and social health of families impacted by homelessness. Operating from a client centered perspective, Home/Life provides a safe and therapeutic environment that supports the social and economic independence of its families served. By developing and implementing innovative services and programs within our Families with Childrens facilities, we provide case management and job counseling, as well as help our families access the economic housing support that allows them to enter and stay in permanent housing. Under the direction of the Social Services Director and Housing Specialist Supervisor, The Housing Specialist will be responsible for assessing clients eligibility and determining their housing and service needs. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES The responsibilities of the Housing Specialist include but not limited to: Administrative: Assists clients with the search for available properties and negotiate terms on behalf of clients Prepares and maintains daily logs, records, and reports Maintains accurate records on client compliance via appointments and interviews Leadership and Staff Development: Provides clients with information and refers them to additional support programs or services. Counsels and assists clients in completing all necessary paperwork, including lease signings. Partner with Case Managers to prepare clients for landlord/broker interviews Assists and counsel clients in regards to keeping their appointments Participate in housing related case conferences Programmatic Achievement: Secures permanent housing for clients from a wide range of sources, including government agencies, private landlords and brokers Ensures clients understanding of their rights and responsibilities as tenants Ensures that new apartments are client-ready (e.g., utilities turned on, furniture delivered) Must complete a Field Day at minimum once per week to establish relationships with private landlords and brokers Must conduct a housing workshop at minimum once per month Must meet or surpass target goals set for permanent housing placements and related indicators. Must complete apartment inspection utilizing proper tools to ensure apartment is client-ready and to DHS standard Escort families to viewings, housing related appointments, lease signings etc. In the event of an emergency, Essential Employees are required to report to work as scheduled Duties and responsibilities are subject to change based upon assessment of company needs SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS Minimum of 2 years experience working within the Social Services Field Experience with the Homeless population Experience with the CARES system Must be diligent and organized Must be able to effectively communicate (verbally and in writing) Must be sensitive to different cultures and socioeconomic conditions Ability to travel Knowledge of regulatory standard and property management Bilingual English/Spanish is preferred