Housing Support Specialist

Housing Support Specialist | Gateway West

Make a difference where it matters most. YOU can help individuals experiencing homelessness take meaningful steps toward safety, stability, and housing!

Gateway West is the City’s largest shelter, serving an average of 600 people per night, with more than 700 individuals seeking shelter during cold winter nights. The shelter provides a safe and welcoming environment for men and women experiencing homelessness in Albuquerque. Open year-round, Gateway West offers meals, a warm bed, secure under-bed storage, daily shuttle service, and low-barrier, trauma-informed overnight beds designed to support individuals as they transition to housing.

Chicanos Por La Causa, Inc. (CPLC) is a nonprofit organization and one of the largest Hispanic Community Development Corporations in the United States. Founded by student and community activists in 1967 and incorporated as a nonprofit in 1969, CPLC is committed to empowering individuals and communities through health and human services, housing, education, and economic development.

HOW WILL YOU MAKE AN IMPACT IN THIS ROLE?

As a Housing Support Specialist, you will provide collaborative and intensive support to female residents experiencing homelessness, housing instability, and other challenges. You will oversee resident activities, support compliance with shelter policies, and help create a safe, respectful, and supportive environment.

You will provide comprehensive case management and individualized support strategies to assist guests with accessing and maintaining health, behavioral health, housing, and vocational stability. You will work directly with residents to develop and execute individualized plans, connect them with community resources, and support their progress toward safe, stable housing and long-term independence.

WHO YOU ARE?

You are compassionate, non-judgmental, and committed to supporting individuals from diverse backgrounds. You understand that trauma can significantly impact a person's experiences and behaviors, and you know the importance of creating an environment built on safety, trust, respect, empowerment, and healing.

You can remain calm and professional in stressful situations, handle conflict constructively, and balance independent work with collaboration. Most importantly, you are passionate about helping individuals navigate challenges and move toward greater stability and recovery. Because apparently changing lives requires paperwork, documentation, and computer skills too. Humanity remains committed to making important work administratively complicated.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS AND COMPETENCIES

Education/Background​

• High school diploma or equivalent; In lieu of education equivalent experience in social services or related fields will also be considered.
• Certified Peer Support Worker preferred
• Prior experience working in a shelter, community organization, or social service setting is a plus
• Understanding of homelessness issues and familiarity with available community resources
• Possess a clear understanding of the critical importance of trauma-informed care in supporting participants
• Be equipped to recognize the impact of trauma on individuals’ experiences and behaviors, and actively implement practices that promote safety, empowerment, and healing
• Foster an environment of trust and respect that plays a vital role in helping the participants navigate their challenges and work towards stability and recovery
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to remain calm and professional in stressful situations
• Basic computer skills for record-keeping and reporting
• Compassionate and non-judgmental attitude towards individuals experiencing homelessness
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment and independently
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to handle conflicts constructively
• Previous experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness or in a supportive housing setting is highly desirable
• Strong understanding of trauma-informed care principles and a commitment to applying them in practice
• Ability to work effectively with diverse populations and demonstrate cultural competency
• Excellent communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills
• Ability to maintain professionalism and confidentiality in a fast-paced, high-stress environment
• Proficiency in basic computer applications, including Microsoft Office and client management software
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel locally as needed

What does CPLC offer YOU as a valued employee?

We recognize that our success is driven by great talent, and that's why we provide a comprehensive and competitive suite of benefits to serve you and your family.

Check out our benefits for FULL-TIME employees below:

• Generous Paid Holidays
• Paid Time Off & Paid Sick Days
• Medical, Dental, and Vision for Spouse/Domestic Partner & Children to Age 26
• 401(k) Retirement Plan
• Employee Recognition Program
• Tuition Reimbursement for Qualifying Degrees
• Health Savings Account & Flexible Spending Account
• Free Preventative Services & Wellness Rewards
• Life Disability Options
• Employee Assistance Program
• Telemedicine & Concierge Services
• Pet Care and Life Mart Purchase Discounts
• Mileage & Cell Reimbursement for Qualifying Roles
• Identity Theft Protection & Voluntary Benefits

Gateway West provides hope. YOU can help turn that hope into stability, opportunity, and a place to call home. Apply TODAY and join the CPLC family!

Chicanos Por La Causa, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. CPLC knows it takes a variety of thought, culture, background, and perspective to create a truly impactful workforce. As CPLC grows, we are seeking talented employees with varying backgrounds, cultures, perspectives, and experiences to support our innovation and creativity.

CPLC commits to a continued focus on fair and just hiring, training, promotional practices, and policies. We work for real change and progress in equal opportunity recruitment, hiring, and advancement. Learn more by visiting the EEOC Poster page.

California Residents: Chicanos Por La Causa, Inc. and its subsidiaries will consider qualified applicants with a criminal history pursuant to the California Fair Chance Act. Find out more about the Fair Chance Act by visiting the Civil Rights Department Fair Chance Act webpage.