Housing Specialist FCS

Position Summary: Works in Homeless Services programs to provide best practice interventions to those experiencing homelessness. This is a full-time, project-based position that will continue based on the availability of ongoing project funding. Interventions may include but are not limited to: Foundational Community Supports (FCS), , Coordinated Assessment, Rapid Rehousing, Diversion, Prevention, , Supportive Housing, and more. Housing Specialists promote self-sufficiency and stability, provide coaching and support services to assist households in connecting to resources, developing the skills and resources necessary to stabilize and secure permanent housing. Develops and implements a comprehensive plan of assessment, including planning, service delivery, follow-up, and support.

Principle Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Empower participants to achieve economic and personal independence and self-sufficiency by providing case management services following assessment tools. Service delivery may be via outreach, in-reach, and in-office.
2. Conduct intake and assessments to determine eligibility.
3. Work with participants to meet required program objectives and outcomes including, but not limited to: exits to permanent housing and increased income. Services provided are within the Housing First framework, are trauma-informed, and utilize the progressive engagement philosophy.
4. Conduct home visits as needed in conjunction with case management plans and crisis situations.
5. Connect clients to additional resources and provides referrals as needed.
6. Ensure participant files are accurate and updated. Maintains required case and program records as required in an accurate and timely manner.
7. Work collaboratively with other team members and partners to assure continuity of services.
8. Ensure data entry into multiple data bases, including HMIS, is entered accurately and in a timely manner. Is responsible for running monthly data quality checks.
9. Conducts housing inspections to ensure habitability.
10. Work with landlords to secure units for clients and provide mediation as needed.
11. Authorize Purchase Orders for appropriate client needs within program and agency guidelines.
12. Provide individual and system advocacy where appropriate within the guidelines of SNAP's Advocacy policy.
13. Attend staff meetings and training as scheduled.
14. Provide backup administrative support as needed.
15. Within the context of the stated principle job duties, serve as an ambassador of SNAP's mission and values.
16. Work with coworkers and volunteers to promote a positive, respectful, and productive working environment, while protecting client confidentiality and dignity.
17. Complete assigned projects and performs related duties as assigned or as the situation dictates.
18. Provide excellent customer service at all times as well as helps to grow the customer service culture within the agency.

Requirements:

Education and Experience

• Required: HS/GED plus 3 years of experience with case management, social services or related work or education and experience in case management, social services or related field combined to equal 3 years.
• Preferred: AA in social services with two years of case management, social services or experience in a related field. Foundational Community Supports (FCS) experience is preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Ability to empathize with and advocate for individuals with diverse backgrounds and needs, including those from low-income households
• Ability to work with vulnerable populations such as those re-entering the community from institutions such as jail, prison or mental health facilities.

• Demonstrated communication, life management and motivational skills to promote self-sufficiency rather than supporting dependence
• Ability to work with various assessment and planning tools, including family development model
• Knowledge of local resources with the ability to network and link appropriate services together to meet individual and family needs

• Exceptional interpersonal skills with emphasis on effectively working in a team environment and with a diverse population

• Proficient in computer operations, including word processing, spreadsheet, and database; aptitude and ability to learn related technical skills

• Ability to communicate confidently, safely, and effectively with people in crisis situations

Training and Certifications

• Must participate in a minimum of 20 hours annually of continuing education that is relevant to the position such as but not limited to: peer support, community health worker, trauma informed care, family development, motivational interviewing, mental health first aid, best practice updates.
• Bloodborne pathogens training (annually)
• Valid drivers license, satisfactory driving record, personal vehicle and insurance for Agency business (mileage reimbursed)

Work Environment/Physical Activities:

Some work is sedentary, performed in a typical office environment. Incumbent will make visits to participants' homes or living sites, and may encounter unsanitary conditions and difficult people. Work does require local travel to offices, residents, and other buildings. May require lifting up to 20 pounds.

The statements contained herein describe the scope of the responsibility and essential functions of this position, but should not be considered to be an all-inclusive listing of work requirements. Individuals may perform other duties as assigned including work in other areas to cover absences or relief to equalize peak work periods or otherwise balance the workload.