Housing Specialist CMS

Job Title: Housing Specialist

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

DIVISION: Shelter Services

Reports To: Program Director

Salary: $50000 Annually

Location: 599 Utica Avenue Brooklyn NY

SUMMARY:

The Housing Specialist is responsible for assisting shelter residents in securing permanent housing and transitioning successfully from the NYC shelter system to stable independent living. This role involves housing placement landlord & broker engagement subsidy coordination and ongoing client support in compliance with New York City Department of Homeless Services (DHS) and Human Resources Administration (HRA) guidelines.

• ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Conduct housing assessments to determine clients housing needs eligibility and barriers to placement.
  Assist clients in identifying appropriate housing options including supportive housing subsidized housing and independent housing opportunities.
• Facilitate applications for city and federal rental assistance programs
• Coordinate with HRA to ensure timely processing of housing packages.
• Monitor subsidy compliance and renewal requirements.
• Complete housing applications (both written and computer-generated) and ensure all required documentation is accurate and submitted timely.
• Maintain regular contact with clients to support housing search efforts and address barriers to securing housing.
• Maintain a database of available housing units.
• Maintain accurate and timely case notes in accordance with DHS standards.
• Prepare housing packages for submission and track approval status.
• Develop and maintain relationships with landlords property managers brokers and housing agencies to identify housing opportunities.
• Coordinate housing placement efforts with Case Managers program staff and external housing providers.
• Escort clients to housing appointments apartment viewings and lease signings as applicable.
• Advocate on behalf of clients with landlords housing providers and government agencies to facilitate housing placement and stability.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date housing records housing logs and client documentation in accordance with agency and funding source guidelines and procedures.
• Track housing placement outcomes and assist in achieving monthly placement goals as assigned.
• Provide housing education to clients including tenant rights lease responsibilities and maintain stable housing.
• Attend staff meetings case conferences and training to enhance skills related to housing placement and program requirements.
• Must be able to work flexible alternate schedules which may include evening and weekend shifts.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

EXPERIENCE EDUCATION AND SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Bachelors degree in social work human services or a related field preferred.
• Minimum of three years of experience working in a homeless shelter housing program or with vulnerable populations required.
• Experience working with single adult men in a shelter or housing setting preferred.
• Experience with housing placement housing subsidies or supportive housing programs preferred.
• Bilingual preferred
• Strong relationship-building skills particularly with landlords and community partners.
• Ability to effectively multitask and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Strong computer skills required including Microsoft Word Excel and case management systems