Housing Specialist (Long Island City)

Job Summary

The Housing Specialist assists clients in identifying, securing, and maintaining permanent housing for single adult men residing in a homeless shelter. The Housing Specialist works closely with Case Managers, clients, landlords, and external partners to facilitate housing placements, complete housing applications, and support clients throughout the housing process. They ensure clients receive appropriate information, referrals, and assistance necessary to obtain and maintain stable housing.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Conduct housing assessments to determine clients’ housing needs, eligibility, and barriers to placement
• Assist clients in identifying appropriate housing options, including supportive housing, subsidized housing, and independent housing opportunities.
• Facilitate applications for city and federal rental assistance programs
• Coordinate with HRA to ensure timely processing of housing packages.
• Monitor subsidy compliance and renewal requirements.
• Complete housing applications (both written and computer-generated) and ensure all required documentation is accurate and submitted timely.
• Maintain regular contact with clients to support housing search efforts and address barriers to securing housing.
• Maintain a database of available housing units.
• Maintain accurate and timely case notes in accordance with DHS standards.
• Prepare housing packages for submission and track approval status.
• Develop and maintain relationships with landlords, property managers, brokers, and housing agencies to identify housing opportunities.
• Coordinate housing placement efforts with Case Managers, program staff, and external housing providers.
• Escort clients to housing appointments, apartment viewings, and lease signings, as applicable.
• Advocate on behalf of clients with landlords, housing providers, and government agencies to facilitate housing placement and stability.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date housing records, housing logs, and client documentation in accordance with agency and funding source guidelines and procedures.
• Track housing placement outcomes and assist in achieving monthly placement goals, as assigned.
• Provide housing education to clients, including tenant rights, lease responsibilities, and maintain stable housing.
• Attend staff meetings, case conferences, and training to enhance skills related to housing placement and program requirements.
• Must be able to work flexible, alternate schedules which may include evening and weekend shifts.
• Perform other related duties, as assigned.

Experience, Education and Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Bachelor's degree in social work, human services or a related field preferred.
• Minimum of three years of experience working in a homeless shelter, housing program, or with vulnerable populations required.
• Experience working with single adult men in a shelter or housing setting preferred.
• Experience with housing placement, housing subsidies, or supportive housing programs preferred.
• Bilingual preferred
• Strong relationship-building skills, particularly with landlords and community partners.
• Ability to effectively multitask and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Strong computer skills required, including Microsoft Word, Excel, and case management systems

Physical Requirements (Essential Functions)

This position requires the ability to move throughout the facility and perform tasks that may include:

• Standing or sitting for extended periods
• Bending, squatting, or reaching
• Occasionally lifting or carrying up to 30 pounds

These physical requirements are essential functions of the role and may be performed with or without reasonable accommodation in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

EEO Statement

Community Mediation Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider all persons in employment-related decisions, including hiring, promotions, training, and other terms, conditions, and privileges of employment, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or any other legally protected status.

Pay: $58,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Loan forgiveness
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Vision insurance

Education:

• High school or equivalent (Required)

Experience:

• Homeless shelter, Housing program, Vulnerable populations : 3 years (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $58,000