Housing Specialist

Job Description Housing Specialist Devens.docx

About Us: Making Opportunity Count is a non-profit human services agency dedicated to creating positive change and enhancing the lives of individuals and families in Fitchburg, MA. We are committed to fostering community growth, providing essential services, and promoting holistic well-being. Our dynamic team is driven by a shared passion for making a lasting impact.

Position Overview:

The Housing Specialist will work collaboratively in engaging EA Shelter families who are experiencing homelessness obtain safe, affordable, more permanent housing. The Housing Specialist acts as an advocate for families and is creative in identifying traditional and non-traditional housing opportunities as well as other resources to support the clients’ ability to obtain and maintain housing. The Housing Specialist builds relationships with community landlords and government housing agencies and is resourceful in navigating housing subsidy programs.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• The Housing Specialist uses motivational interviewing and provides individualized support by helping each family develop a plan for housing search and locating safe, affordable more permanent housing options.
• The Housing Specialist assists clients with housing search activities including but not limited to, finding housing opportunities, contacting prospective landlords and/or management companies, application support, accompanying clients to view and apply for units, attending appointments at housing agencies, lease negotiations, tenant rights and responsibilities and other search activities as they present.
• The Housing Specialist Networks and collaborates with area housing resources and maintains a presence at community housing resource meetings.
• Build strong relationships with community housing partners to expand housing search opportunities.
• The Housing Specialist Maintains a relationship with existing property managers/owners and establishes new relationships.
• Establishes updates, maintains, and communicates a list of available housing opportunities and lotteries on a regular basis.
• The Housing Specialist Works collaboratively with case managers and other department staff.
• Hosts housing workshops for guests on topics such as cohousing, market rate rentals, rental subsidies, or alternative housing.
• Mediates with landlords when necessary.
• The Housing Specialist documents all interactions with clients timely and accurately within ETO client database system. Prepares reports including but not limited to weekly updates, outcomes, successes, etc.
• Consistently meets all EOHLC Scope of Services and agency contract outcome goals with respect to housing efforts, and housing placements.
• The Housing Specialist Works closely with guests, internal staff, as well as community providers, to ensure a realistic and manageable housing plan.
• Maintain familiarity with relevant housing laws and regulations around Fair Housing and Landlord Tenant laws to assist in client advocacy as appropriate.
• Participates in all required training and professional development activities.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications and Skills:

• Associate degree in human services, or related field.
• 1 year of experience providing case management and rehousing services focused on pre-tenancy and tenancy-sustaining services.
• Must have a reliable telephone.
• Must be empathetic to the needs of a diverse socio-economic population.
• Strong interpersonal skills.
• Knowledge of community resources, state and federal benefits and services.
• Strong project management skills with the ability to administer multiple cases simultaneously and prioritize workload.
• Basic math and budgeting skills.
• Ability to work effectively as a team member with other members of program and agency leaders.
• Demonstrated prior success in case management functions or eligibility determinations for community-based social service organizations.
• Problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to communicate and collaborate with providers and community partners.
• Strong internet, database, and computer skills.
• Good documentation skills.

Physical Requirements:

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times.
• Must be able to travel between sites.

Join our team at Making Opportunity Count and experience a range of fantastic benefits that enhance your work-life balance and overall satisfaction:

• Health, Dental, FSA, and Vision Insurance: Take care of your well-being with comprehensive coverage.

• Paid Time Off (PTO): Enjoy generous time off to relax and recharge.

• Student Loan Forgiveness: We're here to help you ease your student loan burden.

• Tuition Remission: Invest in your education with our tuition remission program.

• Employer-Sponsored Retirement: Secure your future with our retirement plan contributions.

• Pet Insurance: Ensure your furry friends receive the best care.

• Employee Discounts: Access exclusive discounts and perks.

Join us at MOC and experience a workplace that values your well-being and personal growth!