Housing Specialist

Position: Housing Specialist

The Housing Specialist is responsible for assisting individuals with pre-tenancy services and support that includes providing essential services necessary to ensure that individuals can successfully apply for housing, search for housing, and maintain their housing. The Housing specialist provides the support that is necessary to assist individuals in achieving recovery goals in various life roles such as housing, employment, educational, and/or social domains that support long term housing stability.

Document Access & Support for Housing Program provides services to ensure low-barrier, easily accessible assistance to all individuals, including but not limited to, people with no income or income history, and people with active substance abuse or mental health issues. To learn more about the program, copy and paste this link into a browser https https://www.voa-gny.org/housing

Locations: Clifton, NJ 07013

Elizabeth, NJ 07201

Minimum Qualifications:

• The position requires a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in one of the helping professions, such as social work, human services, counseling, psychiatric rehabilitation, psychology, or criminal justice.
• Experience working with developing landlord relationships and/or being a Licensed Realtor is preferred.
• This position shall also have a valid state driver's license with a safe driving record that meets agency procedures.

Housing Specialist Principal Responsibilities:

1. Conduct an initial assessment to identify each person's housing needs and preferences in the community that are aligned with the requirements of the HCV program. Develop an individualized housing plan that outlines the steps needed to obtain and maintain housing.
2. Assist with transportation to help individuals travel to meet with landlords and complete housing applications and credit background checks.
3. Provide skill teaching to assist individuals in developing skills for lease compliance and tenancy education to achieve community integration and to remain in an affordable living setting of his/her choice. Provide referrals to other services and resources that can address any issues that may threaten housing stability upon lease up.
4. Conduct financial literacy coaching for individuals to develop budget plans, learn how to set financial goals to manage their finances and build wealth. Provide access to financial resources in the community or use of budgeting software or online financial calculators.
5. Provide access to employment services to help with building wealth through employment opportunities and job training.
6. Ongoing case management to help individuals reduce barriers to maintaining housing including conflicts with landlords, legal or disability issues or other housing relating concerns.
7. Conducting regular check-ins to foster the engagement process with housing search and connection with DCA Housing Navigation staff.
8. Document all observations, information, and services into the HMIS and EHR, ensuring each individual is entered within 48 hours of contact. Communicate observations and information about individuals to the Program Manager and clinical team.
9. Attend scheduled team meetings and clinical supervision. Demonstrates ability and flexibility to work as a team member.

We are committed to offering our employees an exceptional comprehensive benefits package that supports their health, well-being, and personal growth. Full-time employees enjoy:

• Medical, Dental, & Vision Coverage
• Prescription Coverage
• Life Insurance
• Retirement Plan
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Paid Time Off, including a Paid Birthday Holiday
• And much more!

Please note: Benefits for part-time employees may vary.

To learn more about VOA-Greater New York, copy and paste this link into a browser: https://www.voa-gny.org/about

VOA-Greater New York is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Vets/Disabled/Other Protected Categories. Apply today!