What are the responsibilities and job description for the Housing Specialist position at Northwest Family Services?
Wage - $$22 - $30
Housing Specialist
The Position
This position works closely with individuals and families experiencing homelessness to assess their need, assist with the housing search and encourage stabilization in long-term housing.
Job Duties
- Receive referrals and assess eligibility of potential clients. Refer to Coordinated Housing Access screening for alternative programs if necessary.
- Obtain documentation, collect required data and complete the intake paperwork for eligible clients.
- Provide trauma-informed, strengths-based case management and Housing First approach to address housing needs and facilitate connection to additional resources on a case-by-case basis.
- Coordinate with clients, landlords, and community partners to facilitate the application process. This includes requesting program funds to address rental barriers and application fees.
- Submit requests for funding with appropriate documentation utilizing NWFS procedures, and ensure transactions are completed.
- Collaborate with clients to develop an action plan to address additional needs and goals.
- Conduct regular check-ins with clients to provide continued, individualized support for action plan items and facilitate connection to community resources with the goal of continued housing stability.
- Build and maintain effective relationships with community partners, landlords and property management companies.
- Serve as a liaison and advocate for program participants to mediate any issues.
- Maintain accurate case files, data collection, and documentation on a consistent basis.
Education / Experience
- A Bachelor’s degree in a related field is preferred or in lieu of a degree, four years of experience in social services.
- Experience working with vulnerable communities and people from diverse backgrounds.
Organizational Culture
Northwest Family Services, through our mission, practices and the services we offer, are committed to the belief that all people deserve dignity and respect. As we serve our communities, we will continue to work together to listen, to learn, and to act to overcome historic values and structures that have led to discrimination and inequities.
We are committed to creating a culture of belonging, where all staff are valued and given opportunity to grow and succeed equitably. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender identity, gender expression, religion, age, sexual orientation, primary language, ethnic background or socioeconomic status. NWFS pursues policies, strategies, and programs which promote cultural responsiveness in our daily work. We seek staff who share our vision and commitment to our communities.
Supplemental Information
Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history will be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment.
This position requires the use of a personal vehicle and a minimum level of insurance coverage for that vehicle.
Minimum Coverage Amount:
· Personal liability insurance with $50,000 for bodily injury per person, with an aggregate of $100,000 per accident, or
· $100,000 combined single limit (bodily injury and property damage combined)
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $22.00 - $30.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Flexible spending account
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Mileage reimbursement
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
Salary : $22 - $30