Major Functions:      

Under general supervision, the Housing Specialist is responsible for identifying permanent housing for program participants. The Housing Specialist will also be responsible for conducting a housing assessment to determine participants housing readiness, family composition and other housing needs. S/he will provide comprehensive case management, will assist clients in the completion of applications for housing and rental subsidy programs, and conduct housing counseling. S/he will escort clients to subsidized housing, realtors, landlord, and community based agencies. S/he will accompany clients to apartment visits and lease signings. S/he will establish linkages with real estate brokers and landlords, utilize media resources such as the internet to identify available apartments. S/he will maintain detailed participant notes and update database. This work is carried out in support of the mission and goals of Samaritan Daytop Village.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Coordinates, develops and maintains linkages with reliable landlords, brokers and realty agencies.Maintains updated database of available resources.Provides guidance to clients and staff as it relates to housing related issues.Assists residents in seeking safe, permanent and affordable housing. Coordinates with case managers on client cases.Inspects apartments to ensure they are in compliance with city, state and local standards.Develops housing assessment tool to be utilized for ensuring appropriate placement.Interviews candidates to ensure income, family size, etc are suitable for placement.Identifies barriers to housing (i.e.: language, substance abuse, appearance, etc.).Advocates on participants’ behalf to obtain and/or maintain housing subsidies (Advantage NYC, Section 8, FEPS, etc.).Maintains tracking forms for placements; provides accurate reports in a timely manner.Assists Case Managers in developing appropriate housing plan.Assists in facilitating OOR processes (registration, inspection, linkage, etc.).Assists in reconciliation of placements; verify non-advantage placements and complete appropriate documentation.Keeps abreast of changes going on in housing market.Performs other duties as requested.

 

REQUIREMENTS:

 Required Education, Experience and Skills:

Associate's Degree in a Human Services field.Two years of comparable housing or real estate experience. Strong writing skills; competencies in writing goal based/person centered treatment plans and progress notes.Good interpersonal skills and ability to interact effectively with clients, staff, brokers, landlords, etc.Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Power Point, Outlook) and EMR.Willingness to travel in the community to view available apartments with program participants.Experience working directly with people from diverse racial, ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds.Knowledge of DHS regulations and systems (CARES} a plus. 

License/Certification Required:

None

 

Preferred Education, License/Certification, Experience and/or Skills:

Bachelor’s Degree in Human Services field. Clean NYS Driver's License.Knowledge of techniques for identifying and preventing potentially violent behavior, including crisis management techniques.Knowledge of NYC Administration for Children Services process and procedures for addressing child abuse.Working knowledge of OTDA Regulation for Operating a Tier 11 Family Shelter NYS.Knowledge of Clients Rights and Code of Conduct in NYC Shelter Systems.