Housing Stability Specialist (TEMP)

Position: Housing Stability Specialist (TEMP)

Reports to: Housing Stability Clinic Manager

Compensation Status: Full-time, Salary

Hours: Approximately 37.5 hours per week

Position Summary: The Housing Stability Specialist plays a vital role in addressing housing instability by providing comprehensive problem-solving assistance to individuals and families. This position focuses on identifying the root causes of housing instability, developing solutions to overcome barriers, and supporting participants in achieving long-term housing stability. The specialist will work directly with participants to assess their needs, connect them with resources, and facilitate problem-solving strategies for securing and retaining stable housing. The role also includes collaboration with community agencies, landlords, case managers, and other housing professionals to ensure holistic and sustainable solutions.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

Participant Assessment and Housing Problem-Solving:

Conduct thorough assessments of participants’ housing situations, financial status, and underlying issues contributing to housing instability (e.g., eviction, financial hardship, relationship with landlords). Develop tailored problem-solving strategies to address these challenges, helping participants overcome immediate obstacles and secure stable housing.

Use a strengths-based approach to empower participants in identifying and resolving barriers to housing.

Resource Navigation and Referral:

Guide participants through the process of accessing housing-related resources, including emergency housing, rental assistance programs, financial aid, legal services, and tenant education. Connect participants with community-based resources to solve housing-related problems effectively.

Ensure participants receive the necessary support to resolve disputes with landlords, manage financial hardships, and secure rental housing.

Advocacy and Problem Resolution:

Advocate on behalf of participants in dealing with landlords, property managers, and housing authorities. Provide problem-solving assistance in lease negotiations, understanding tenant rights, resolving eviction threats, and addressing landlord-tenant disputes.

Serve as a mediator to resolve conflicts that threaten housing stability and ensure participants’ voices are heard.

Collaboration with Community Partners:

Build and maintain collaborative relationships with local housing agencies, government programs, legal services, nonprofit organizations, and other community resources. Facilitate communication between all parties to address housing problems in a coordinated manner.

Attend relevant community meetings and coalitions to stay informed about available resources and advocacy efforts that can benefit participants.

Documentation and Reporting:

Maintain detailed and accurate participant records, tracking housing assessments, problem-solving interventions, and referrals. Regularly update case files to reflect progress toward housing goals and any ongoing challenges.

Prepare reports on key performance metrics, including housing retention, problem-solving effectiveness, and overall program impact.

Housing Retention and Ongoing Support:

Provide ongoing support to participants post-placement, offering problem-solving strategies for issues that may arise in their new housing, such as rent payments, landlord disputes, or maintenance concerns.

Offer financial literacy and budgeting advice to ensure participants are equipped to sustain their housing long-term.

Crisis Intervention and Housing Solutions:

Provide immediate crisis intervention services for participants at risk of eviction or homelessness. Work with participants to develop emergency housing plans and connect them with temporary housing options if necessary.

Engage in creative problem-solving to ensure that participants facing crises are not displaced and have a clear path to stability.

Program Development and Outreach:

Participate in the design and implementation of new initiatives aimed at solving common housing problems. Lead outreach efforts to inform the community about housing resources, assistance programs, and problem-solving services available for individuals and families at risk of homelessness.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

Strong interpersonal, communication, and negotiation skills, with the ability to work effectively with participants, landlords, community partners, and other stakeholders.

In-depth knowledge of housing laws, tenant rights, and housing stability programs, with the ability to apply these principles in problem-solving scenarios.

Ability to think critically and creatively to resolve complex housing challenges.

Experience in case management or social services, particularly with vulnerable populations facing housing instability.

Strong organizational skills, with the ability to manage a caseload, track progress, and meet deadlines.

Empathy and cultural competency in working with participants from diverse socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds.

Proficiency in using Microsoft Office Suite and case management software to track participant progress and generate reports.

Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information with discretion.

Familiarity with local housing programs (e.g., Section 8, rapid rehousing, permanent supportive housing) and how they can be used to address housing problems.

Ability to handle crisis situations calmly and effectively, with a focus on finding long-term solutions.

A valid driver’s license and reliable transportation (if required for the role).

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

Education:

A Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Psychology, Sociology, or a related field is preferred.

An Associate’s degree or relevant certifications may be considered equivalent work experience.

Experience:

Minimum of two years of experience working in housing assistance, social services, or case management, particularly with low-income or at-risk populations.

Experience in housing problem-solving and resolving landlord-tenant conflicts is strongly preferred.

Knowledge of housing subsidy programs, eviction prevention services, and tenant rights advocacy is an asset.

Note: This job description is designed to provide an overview of the responsibilities, qualifications, and skills required for the Housing Stability Clinic Specialist position. It is not an exhaustive list and may evolve as the organization’s needs change. Additional duties may be assigned to support the program’s objectives.

Please be aware that the duties, responsibilities, and activities outlined for this position are subject to change at any time, with or without prior notice. Adjustments may be made based on organizational needs, evolving priorities, or other factors, and employees are expected to adapt accordingly.