The successful candidate will be responsible to provide housing services to help clients understand and overcome personal or social issues affecting their housing. The housing specialist will cooperate with case managers and legal staff to develop service plans for clients to ensure permanent and stable housing and access to community sources. The specialist will be encouraged to be cross trained and have an understanding of the job functions within the Housing Services Department. 

Responsibilities: 

The Housing Specialist is responsible for, but not limited to:

•Collaborate with program participants to develop service plans that correlate with resolving presenting problems and obstacles to maintaining housing stability

•Assist in client intake, service planning, advocacy and referral services in the absence of a case manager

•Maintain weekly or bi-weekly contact with clients to follow-up on service plan

•Maintain records monitor case progress and enter case related information into AWARDS Database

•Conduct and/or participate in housing related activities and workshops 

•Assist participants with obtaining and reinstating benefits

•Assist participants in identifying financial resources

•Advocate and submit applications for rental assistance grants through charitable organizations

•Compile and submit packages to HRA for Rental Assistance Grants (Exceptions to Policy) and One Shot Deals 

•Make appointments with landlords and other housing agents to ensure individuals have housing leads in the event relocation from current housing is required

•Work collaboratively with legal services staff to identify client readiness on legal proceedings

•Treat all clients, visitors and employees with kindness, respect and dignity

•Enforce facility rules and regulations to maintain compliance

•Attend staff meetings and serve on committees as required

•Maintain confidentiality and professionalism 

•Time management and prioritization

•Maintain awareness of new trends and development in social services and related fields

•Perform general clerical duties

Professional & Personal Qualifications

•Baccalaureate degree in Social Work, Psychology, Sociology, or related field with 1 years of direct social service experience

•Associate degree in Human Service, or related field with 3 years of direct social service experience

•High School Diploma/General Equivalent Diploma with 5 plus years of direct social service experience

•Knowledgeable of the plight of the homeless and special needs populations 

•Knowledgeable of case work/case management methodologies

•Commitment to the mission of the NAICA, Inc.

•Proven ability to work collaboratively well with diverse groups

•Proven ability to handle multiple tasks effectively under pressure

•Strong organizational skills, detail-oriented, and efficient

•Maturity, integrity, and sound judgment