What are the responsibilities and job description for the Housing Specialist, Family Emergency Services position at South Middlesex Opportunity Council?
Summary: The FES Housing Specialist assists homeless families in shelter units to achieve safe and permanent housing. Using a Housing First approach, they provide a coordinated housing search, participating as part of each shelter team and providing advocacy to support families in obtaining affordable housing.
Key Responsibilities:
Knowledge and Skill Requirements:
Organizational Relationship: Directly reports to Shelter and Rehousing Manager.
Key Responsibilities:
- Promote a Housing First approach to shorten shelter stays, partnering with the case management and stabilization team.
- Assist with placements in congregate and scattered site units, ensuring units are ready for families.
- Complete intake forms and assessments within 48 hours of family arrival and upon exit.
- Provide housing search assistance, including subsidy application and access to funds.
- Work collaboratively with Case Manager and System Navigators to assess housing needs.
- Develop monthly Rehousing Plans and work with clients to accomplish tasks and transition into housing.
Knowledge and Skill Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree preferred or 2 years relevant work experience in social services.
- Bilingual preferred (Spanish, Haitian Creole, Portuguese).
- Must be willing to work a flexible schedule.
- Valid driver's license, reliable transportation, and meet insurance standards.
- Sensitivity to low-income people of diverse backgrounds.
- Ability to work independently.
Organizational Relationship: Directly reports to Shelter and Rehousing Manager.
