Housing Specialist

General Responsibilities:

• Assist households who are experiencing or at-risk of homelessness by providing a range of supportive services designed to promote housing stability.
• Protect the privacy of customers and hold in confidence all information obtained in the course of service.
• Provide quality professional customer service at all times.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:   

• Provide housing case management to households who are experiencing or at-risk of homelessness.
• Design a Housing Stability Plan with each program participant, and monitor monthly progress of participant’s stated goals through ongoing case management meetings, including an Individual Employment Plan for Veterans.
• Work with households to identify potential eligibility for mainstream resource benefits (e.g. TANF, VA Benefits, Social Security, Bridge Card, Medicaid, etc.) and assist in program enrollment.
• Conduct data collection via the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS) and empowOR.
• Complete or collect all required program documentation with accuracy, consistency, and compliance.
• Develop and maintain positive relationships with service providers, landlords, and participants.
• Conduct housing searches with participants to assist in locating, obtaining, and retaining housing.
• Perform housing inspections on all potential rental units.
• Participate in personal and professional development activities, including staff meetings, conferences, and training opportunities, as identified and approved by supervisors.
• Travel throughout the service area as needed.
• Overnight travel may be required for trainings.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Education and Experience Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in human services preferred.
  
• Experience in human services, specifically with homeless populations preferred.

Additional Requirements:

• Must obtain HMIS license within 30 days of hire.
• Must obtain HQS certification within 1 year of hire.
• Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of situations.
• Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or other form.
  
• Demonstrated communication skills both oral and written.
• Must be highly organized and people-oriented.
• Understand the importance of daily work attendance.
• Must have proficient computer and technical skills, including Word, Excel, Outlook, and the Internet
• Must have reliable transportation, a valid driver’s license, provide proof of insurance, and successfully pass a motor vehicle record review
• Must successfully pass a background check, including criminal history and Central Registry clearance, at the time of hire and when requested at any time during employment
• Must comply with the Agency's smoke-free and drug-free policies