Housing Specialist

Vivent Health•Denver, CO

19h

About The Position

The Housing Specialist facilitates access to stable housing for individuals facing housing challenges. The role collaborates with community partners to expand housing resources for diverse client needs and improve program effectiveness. It guides clients through the housing process, connects them with community housing resources, and provides support for housing stability. The position also recognizes the intersection of housing and health and works with Vivent Health Care Teams to integrate housing solutions into overall health plans. The Housing Specialist conducts housing assessments, develops individualized housing plans, assists with housing applications and rental processes, advocates for safe housing, and supports clients through housing crises and other barriers to eligibility. The role builds relationships with landlords, property owners, property managers, housing providers, and community organizations; researches local housing markets and resources; and facilitates placements that fit clients’ needs and preferences. It maintains accurate, confidential records and complies with HIPAA, PHI requirements, and agency policies. Additional job-related tasks may be assigned as needed. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. The position requires a bachelor's degree in Social Work, Human Services, Public Health, or a related field. Relevant work or lived experience in social services, housing, or a related field is required. Experience with individuals facing housing challenges is preferred. Salary is $49,920–$56,000 annually, depending on experience and other factors. Employment may qualify for federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness, subject to program requirements.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Human Services, Public Health, or a related field.
Worked or lived experience in social services, housing, or a related field.
Experience coordinating and administering rent assistance programs, ensuring efficient and timely delivery of services.
Ability to guide clients through housing applications, eligibility criteria, and lease agreements.
Experience working in healthcare and social service systems.
Familiarity with local housing resources, rental markets, and housing support services.
Experience with housing assistance programs, including eligibility criteria, application processes, and documentation requirements.
Experience using basic office and database programs, including Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel, SharePoint, and Tableau.
Understanding of rental applications and online tenant screening processes.
Basic understanding of HMIS and ability to document in the system.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
Empathy and understanding of diverse cultural perspectives.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.
Problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
Commitment to ethical standards and confidentiality.
For positions requiring driving a company vehicle: valid driver’s license, auto insurance, and a clean driving record.

Nice To Haves

Experience working with individuals facing housing challenges.
Experience working with HIV/AIDS and related issues and/or with people with a life-threatening illness.
Experience serving people encountering homelessness, poverty, unemployment, substance use disorders, and behavioral health issues.
Experience with harm reduction, motivational interviewing, cultural inclusivity, and trauma-informed care.
Knowledge or experience of housing subsidy programs.

Responsibilities

Conduct housing assessments and determine clients’ needs and eligibility for rent assistance programs.
Develop individualized housing plans that address each client’s circumstances and barriers to housing stability.
Collaborate with housing providers, landlords, property managers, housing authorities, and community organizations to secure housing options.
Educate clients about rental processes, lease agreements, and tenant rights and responsibilities.
Connect clients with supportive services, financial assistance, employment resources, and other relevant resources.
Monitor client progress through regular check-ins and provide ongoing support to maintain housing.
Conduct home visits and inspections for long-term housing programs.
Advocate for clients seeking safe and stable housing, including navigating housing systems and addressing barriers to eligibility.
Respond promptly to housing crises and provide support and intervention to help prevent homelessness.
Collaborate with community partners to help clients address credit reports, utility arrears, criminal records, past evictions, unfavorable landlord references, and other housing eligibility issues.
Collaborate with healthcare providers, especially Vivent Health Care Teams, to integrate housing solutions into overall health plans.
Build and maintain positive relationships with landlords, property owners, and property management companies.
Ensure lease terms align with the needs and preferences of clients receiving services.
Facilitate client placement into stable and supportive housing.
Research local housing trends, availability, and opportunities; provide clients with listings that align with their needs and geographic preferences.
Stay informed about local housing resources, policies, and regulations that may affect client placements.
Maintain accurate records of housing placements, lease agreements, landlord and client interactions, housing plans, assistance provided, and outcomes.
Protect confidential client information and follow HIPAA, PHI, and agency policy requirements.