Housing Focused Case Manager

Hope The Mission•Veterans Administration, CA

20d

About The Position

The Housing-Focused Case Manager (HFCM) provides housing-first, participant-centered case management services with a primary emphasis on rapid placement into permanent housing. This position is responsible for supporting participants residing in interim housing to identify, secure, and transition into permanent housing options as quickly and successfully as possible. Working under the supervision of the Program Manager the HFCM prioritizes housing outcomes and delivers services using low-barrier, harm-reduction, and trauma-informed approaches. The role requires strong documentation, participant engagement, and collaboration with internal teams and external housing partners to reduce length of stay and support housing stability. The Housing Navigator provides housing-focused, field-based services to individuals experiencing homelessness as they transition into permanent housing. This role is responsible for identifying appropriate permanent housing opportunities, supporting participants through housing search and placement processes, and coordinating services that promote housing stability. The Housing Navigator works closely with participants, landlords, property managers, and service providers to ensure successful housing placements. Services are delivered using Housing First, Harm Reduction, and Trauma-Informed Care principles, with an emphasis on individualized planning, advocacy, and system navigation.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Human Services, Psychology, or related field, or equivalent lived/professional experience
Minimum one (1) year of experience in homeless services, housing navigation, or case management OR Minimum three (3) years of experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness or similar populations
Knowledge of Housing First, Harm Reduction, Trauma-Informed Care,, and motivational interviewing practices
Knowledge of HUD guidelines, subsidized housing programs, and Coordinated Entry System preferred
Experience with HMIS or similar data systems is preferred
Valid CPR/First Aid certification or ability to obtain within 30 days of hire
TB clearance required
Valid California driver’s license required
Employment eligibility verification (I-9 compliant)
Reliable transportation and the ability to travel
Ability to pass background clearance as required by funders and agency policy
Required agency and funder-mandated trainings completed within designated timeframes

Nice To Haves

Strong housing-focused problem-solving, housing navigation, and engagement skills
Excellent problem-solving, critical-thinking, advocacy, and relationship-building skills
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Strong documentation, organizational, and time management skills
Ability to manage a caseload with competing priorities and deadlines
Ability to work collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams
Professional boundary-setting and ethical decision-making
Comfort working independently with minimal supervision
Cultural humility and ability to work with diverse populations
Proficiency with data systems (HMIS, Client Track, etc.), Microsoft Office Suite, and basic computer applications

Responsibilities

Provide housing-focused case management centered on rapid placement into permanent housing using a Housing First, low-barrier, and trauma-informed approach.
Engage participants in housing-focused case management and build effective, trusting relationships.
Conduct participant assessments to identify housing barriers, preferences, eligibility for housing resources and subsidies, and appropriate permanent housing interventions.
Participate in the Coordinated Entry System (CES) by supporting referral acceptance, housing matching processes, case conferencing, and coordination with CES partners in alignment with LAHSA requirements.
Develop, implement, and regularly update Housing Action Plans and Housing & Services Plans (HSP) that prioritize housing placement and measurable progress toward housing goals.
Conduct and document Problem-Solving (Diversion) conversations at program entry and throughout enrollment, exploring safe and appropriate alternatives to prolonged interim housing stays in accordance with LAHSA guidance.
Provide housing readiness support, including timely assistance with obtaining identification, Social Security verification, disability documentation, and other documents required for permanent housing placement, in alignment with contract timelines and performance expectations.
Assist participants with housing navigation activities, including: Housing applications and referrals Document collection and verification Housing interviews, unit viewings, and lease signings Coordination of move-in logistics
Assist participants with housing voucher applications, including LAHSA, Public Housing Authority (PHA), and related assessment requirements.
Support housing search activities and identify best-fit housing placement options.
Navigate participants to permanent housing programs and placements, including but not limited to: Time-Limited Subsidy (TLS) DHS Housing for Health Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8) Tenant-Based and Project-Based Supportive Housing Veterans housing programs (e.g., VASH) Shared housing, SROs, and low-income housing options
Coordinate move-in assistance resources such as deposits, furniture, and other housing supports when available.
Maintain active engagement with participants through regular check-ins focused on housing progress, problem-solving, and motivation.
Document all services, contacts, housing activities, participant files, and exit documentation accurately and timely in HMIS or agency-approved data systems in compliance with contract obligations, funder requirements, and internal standards.
Ensure that HMIS data is updated within required contract timeframes, generally within 48 hours or sooner as program requirements dictate.
Track and report housing outcomes, including referrals, placements, length of stay, performance outcomes required by applicable LAHSA and funding contracts, and program exits.
Connect participants to community resources that support housing acquisition and stability (e.g., legal aid, credit repair, housing rights).
Support housing placements in compliance with Fair Housing laws, ADA requirements, and reasonable accommodation processes, including coordination related to service animals and accessibility needs.
Build and maintain professional relationships with landlords, property owners, sober livings, housing providers, internal HTM programs, external service providers, and partner agencies.
Collaborate with Housing Navigators, Data Coordinators, Assistant Program Managers, Program Managers, and external housing partners to support participant housing progress.
Participate in team meetings, trainings, supervision, case conferencing, coalition meetings, housing case reviews, chart reviews, and homeless services meetings.
Use de-escalation and mediation techniques to support participants through conflict.
Support participants in understanding tenant rights, lease obligations, and expectations for successful tenancy.
Coordinate with site staff, operations, and leadership to address housing-related concerns that may impact participant stability while in interim housing.
Adhere to and uphold all Hope the Mission and funder rules, regulations, and policies.
Participate in the Coordinated Entry System (CES) by supporting referral acceptance, housing matching processes, case conferencing, and coordination with CES partners in alignment with LAHSA requirements.
Perform other duties as assigned.