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.