Social Services Housing Specialist

Job Summary

The Housing Specialist is responsible for helping clients residing in CHCF homeless shelters secure and maintain permanent housing. Working as part of a multidisciplinary team, the Housing Specialist provides housing-focused case management, advocacy, and resource coordination to support successful transitions from shelter to stable housing. The role also develops and maintains partnerships with landlords, housing providers, government agencies, and community organizations to expand housing opportunities and improve client access to housing resources.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist individuals and families in securing permanent housing through assessments, housing search assistance, advocacy, referrals, and ongoing case support.
• Identify, inspect, and secure safe, affordable housing that meets program and Housing Quality Standards (HQS) requirements.
• Assess eligibility for affordable housing, rental assistance, subsidy programs, and other benefits.
• Develop and maintain partnerships with landlords, brokers, housing agencies, and community organizations to expand housing opportunities.
• Support clients with apartment viewings, housing applications, required documentation, and overcoming barriers to housing, including credit-related issues.
• Facilitate housing-focused workshops, maintain housing resource databases, and conduct community outreach.
• Maintain accurate case records, prepare required reports, and participate in team meetings, case conferences, trainings, and program evaluation activities.
• Represent the organization at housing-related meetings and community events.
• Perform other duties as assigned based on program and organizational needs.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Human Services or a related field required.
• Bilingual in English and Spanish (required).
• Minimum of one year of counseling experience and two years of experience in housing services, housing development/management, real estate, or case management.
• Strong communication, case documentation, advocacy, and workshop facilitation skills, with the ability to support individuals and families experiencing homelessness.
• Knowledge of housing resources, affordable housing programs, and community partnerships, with the ability to collaborate with public and private housing agencies to secure permanent housing.
• Experience working with diverse and vulnerable populations, including individuals experiencing homelessness, mental health or substance use challenges, older adults, and LGBTQ+ communities.
• Familiarity with DHS regulations and DHS CARES reporting preferred.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and other computer applications, with flexibility to work a varied schedule based on program needs.