Housing Specialist

Services for the Underserved•New York, NY

10d•Onsite

About The Position

S:US is seeking a Housing Specialist for its Homebase homeless prevention services facility in Washington Heights, New York, NY. The Housing Specialist is responsible for housing-related duties addressing residents’ needs, including assessing housing situations, connecting residents with housing resources and programs, assisting with applications and appointments, and coordinating with shelters, landlords, and social service agencies. The role also involves tracking residents’ cases from entry through discharge, participating in team meetings, and maintaining accurate client records and progress notes.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
Two years of experience in the human services field.
Knowledge of trauma.
Strong interpersonal skills.
Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
Solid computer skills and working knowledge of Microsoft.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in human services or a related field.
Bilingual English/Spanish speaking ability.

Responsibilities

Interview clients to assess their current housing needs and status, and submit appropriate applications to community resources.
Conduct groups about available housing options, securing an apartment, and handling housing-related issues.
Accompany residents to housing interviews and fairs, and assist with housing applications when necessary.
Provide housing resources, such as landlord contacts and housing programs, and act as a liaison between landlords and clients.
Refer residents for PPD tests and physicals within two weeks of entering the facility.
Obtain an accurate history of each client’s housing situation to assess needed services.
Facilitate Tier II interviews and act as a liaison between Tier II shelters and shelter clients.
Submit applications for available housing programs, including Section 8 and NYCHA.
Handle requests for extensions to be submitted to HRA.
Refer residents to Public Assistance and monitor their compliance with HRA and the ADVENT program.
Assess and assist with client needs related to benefits, negotiate as needed, and follow each resident’s case from entry to discharge.
Assist and escort residents to HRA or social service agency appointments when necessary.
Participate in and attend staff, service plan review, and clinical team meetings.
Maintain and ensure completion of accurate records and progress notes in client charts.
Perform other duties as assigned.