Housing Specialist

Housing Specialist

Salary: $50,000

Location: Washington Heights, NY

About Destination Tomorrow

Destination Tomorrow (DT) is a national grassroots LGBTQ organization founded in the Bronx, built on the principle that no individual should have to leave their neighborhood for necessary services. DT's mission is to move clients off the path of emergency care to one where they can grow, learn, and flourish by emphasizing economic, social, and mental empowerment through comprehensive educational, financial, and health programs, as well as housing solutions. As an expanding multi-site organization, Destination Tomorrow proudly serves the community across The Bronx, New York City; Atlanta, GA; and Washington, D.C.

Position Summary

We are seeking a motivated and resourceful Housing Specialist to help individuals experiencing homelessness transition into safe, stable, permanent housing. This role is ideal for someone who understands the NYC shelter system, enjoys building relationships with landlords and community partners, and is passionate about helping clients navigate the housing process from start to finish.

As a Housing Specialist, you will work directly with clients to identify housing opportunities, assist with applications and vouchers, coordinate apartment readiness, and support successful move-ins. You will play a critical role in helping clients secure long-term housing and achieve greater stability and independence.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Help clients identify and secure permanent housing opportunities throughout NYC.
• Conduct housing searches using CityFHEPS, SOTA, supportive housing, Section 8, EHV, and other subsidy programs.
• Build and maintain relationships with landlords, brokers, management companies, and housing providers.
• Accompany and prepare clients for apartment viewings, landlord interviews, and lease signings.
• Assist clients with completing housing applications, gathering documentation, and navigating DHS processes.
• Educate clients on tenant rights, lease responsibilities, and expectations for maintaining housing.
• Coordinate move-in logistics, including utilities, furniture delivery, and apartment readiness.
• Work closely with Case Managers and program staff to ensure clients are prepared for housing placement.
• Maintain accurate client records, housing placement data, daily logs, and compliance documentation.
• Track housing placement progress and work toward monthly placement goals.
• Conduct field work throughout NYC as needed to support clients and housing placements.
• Provide referrals to additional support services that may help clients maintain housing stability.

Required Qualifications

• 1–2 years of experience working as a Housing Specialist within a NYC DHS shelter setting.
• Experience successfully placing clients into permanent housing using CityFHEPS, SOTA, supportive housing, and other rental assistance programs.
• Familiarity with DHS systems including CARES, CAPS, CURRENT, HOME, and HOMES.
• Knowledge of NYC housing resources, landlord processes, and housing placement regulations.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple client cases simultaneously.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
• Comfortable conducting field work and traveling throughout NYC as needed.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness and other vulnerable populations.
• Experience supporting diverse communities, including TGNC and LGBTQ clients.
• Bilingual English/Spanish strongly preferred.
• Knowledge of landlord/tenant regulations and NYC housing compliance standards.

Additional Information

• Essential employees may be required to report during emergencies.
• Duties may evolve based on program and agency needs.
• Compensatory time may be available for additional hours worked or field-related responsibilities.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $50,000.00 per year

People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

Application Question(s):

• Are you comfortable with the posted salary?
• Do you have experience working withCityFHEPS, SOTA, supportive housing, and other rental assistance programs?

Experience:

• housing specialist in DHS shelter: 2 years (Required)

Ability to Commute:

• New York, NY 10003 (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $50,000