What are the responsibilities and job description for the Housing Specialist position at Unified Social Services?
Housing Specialist
Type: Full Time
Classification: Non-exempt
Reports To: Brandon Higgins
Date: Oct, 21 2026
Pay Rate: $20 to $22 an hour
Hours of Work: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Location: Saint Cloud, MN 56303 and Princeton, MN 55371 (Required to commute)
The Housing Specialist is responsible for promoting tenant independence for individuals who are experiencing, have experienced, or are at risk of experiencing homelessness. By building on participants' strengths and fostering skill development, you will assist clients in securing and maintaining stable housing. Key focus areas include teaching skills necessary for fulfilling tenant responsibilities, landlord negotiation, household management, cooking, and nutrition. Additional responsibilities include providing supportive services to assist with basic living and social skills, monitoring overall well-being and problem-solving, and offering employment supports to achieve personal goals, move toward self-sufficiency, and improve physical, mental, or chemical health. This position does not have supervisory responsibilities.
Essential Functions & Responsibilities
- Manage caseloads by conducting assessments of client housing needs and identifying barriers to stabilization, including financial, legal, mental health, substance abuse, employment, healthcare, and housekeeping factors.
- Develop, review, and implement tailored client self-sufficiency plans.
- Coordinate support services, initiate referrals, and provide advocacy, crisis intervention, and supportive counseling.
- Collaborate closely with case managers, social workers, and other members of the client's care team.
- Obtain housing placements and support the transition process, including proactively identifying and mediating issues between clients and landlords or property owners.
- Conduct regular home visits and monitor client progress toward goals while in shelter care and during stabilization.
- Complete all required progress notes and documentation in a timely manner.
Education, Skills & Qualifications
- Associate degree required; Bachelor's degree (or currently pursuing) in a social services-related field preferred but not required.
- 1 years of experience working in human services.
- Proficiency in Google WorkSpace applications and ability to quickly adapt to new software programs.
- Strong organizational skills with high attention to detail and ability to prioritize workloads effectively.
- Clear, effective, and prompt communication skills when interacting with staff, clients, and community constituents.
- Valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record and access to a reliable vehicle.
- Ability to successfully complete CORI/MVR background checks.
- Strong passion for enhancing the lives of the individuals served.
- Ability to pass a Department of Human Services background check.
- Demonstrated person-centered approach in assisting clients to make informed housing decisions.
- Willingness to travel locally with clients to appointments as needed.
- Other duties as assigned.
Benefits
- Dental Insurance
- Vision Insurance
- Life Insurance
- Mileage Reimbursement
- Flexible Schedule
- Company Equipment
Paid Time Off / Vacation (meets and exceeds ESST standards)
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $20.00 - $22.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Flexible schedule
- Mileage reimbursement
- Paid time off
Experience:
- Case management: 1 year (Preferred)
Willingness to travel:
- 25% (Preferred)
Work Location: On the road
Salary : $20 - $22