Housing Assistant Specialist

IRCO•Portland, OR

11h•Hybrid

About The Position

The Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA) Program supports households experiencing housing instability by providing emergency rental assistance, housing stabilization services, and connections to community resources. The program prioritizes low-income households, immigrants, refugees, and communities disproportionately impacted by housing insecurity. The Housing Assistant Specialist provides direct client services under the Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA) Program, supporting households at risk of eviction or housing loss. This position is responsible for client intake, eligibility determination, documentation, coordination with landlords and community partners, and timely processing of rental assistance to promote housing stability.

Requirements

English Fluency required
Must possess a valid driver’s license, current auto insurance and have full use of an automobile during work hours.
High School degree or equivalent combination of training and experience
Minimum 2 years of work experience

Nice To Haves

Strong analytical, problem-solving skills
Strong skills in intercultural, interpersonal, and organizational communication
Communicate effectively in a positive manner verbally, in writing, and by phone
Strong communication skills in a multilingual, multicultural team and organization

Responsibilities

Conduct client intake, screening, and eligibility determination in accordance with Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA)program guidelines
Assist clients with rental assistance applications, documentation collection, and compliance requirements
Coordinate directly with landlords, property managers, and utility providers to resolve housing crises
Maintain accurate, timely, and confidential client records in required data systems
Provide housing stabilization support, referrals, and follow-up services to ensure continued housing stability
Meet productivity goals and manage multiple cases while adhering to deadlines
Communicate clearly and respectfully with clients from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds
Conduct outreach and in-person follow-ups with Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA) program participants, attend off-site meetings with landlords and partner agencies, collect and deliver required documentation, and support housing stabilization activities that cannot be completed remotely.
Participate in team meetings, training, and program planning activities
Support outreach efforts and community engagement as needed
Perform other related duties as assigned to support program operations
Should be flexible to adapt to changes in programs, funding requirements, or service delivery models

Benefits

Many flexible working arrangements and schedule
Amazing opportunity to work with people who come from all over the world
Work that helps your community
3 to 6 weeks of PTO per year
401k match of over 100% on first 5%, immediate vesting
3% match for student loans or college savings
12 Paid Holidays and 1 Floating Holiday
Medical & Dental insurance options with 90% coverage for employee AND Families, no deductibles
Employer Paid Life, Short term, and Long-term Disability Insurance
Flexible spending accounts