Housing Specialist - Hudson Bay

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Housing Specialist to support clients in securing permanent housing and achieving greater self-sufficiency. Housing Specialists are part of an interdisciplinary team and work closely with shelter and case management staff to support clients through the housing placement process.

The Housing Specialist is responsible for orienting clients to the housing search process, providing instruction on apartment searches, interviews, and housing applications, and facilitating connections to housing opportunities. The role also includes escorting clients to housing-related appointments and providing direct support during the move-out and transition to permanent housing.

The successful candidate will have prior experience working with homeless and/or vulnerable populations.

Essential Functions

• Conduct housing intake and assessment interviews for new clients.
• Ensure compliance with DHS timelines for permanent housing placement.
• Complete the housing components of service and independent living plans, including updates as needed.
• Support Case Managers with HRA-2010E applications and required documentation.
• Prepare housing reports and collect statistical and demographic data for funders.
• Facilitate client workshops on the housing process and skills needed to secure and maintain housing, including budgeting and credit education.
• Develop housing resources and educate clients on available subsidies, vouchers, and benefits.
• Escort clients to apartment viewings, housing-related appointments, and lease signings.
• Support clients through the move-out and transition process, including applications for one-shot deals and moving assistance.
• Document all housing-related counseling, referrals, escorts, and discharge planning activities.
• Participate in housing meetings, case conferences, staff meetings, and required trainings.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Required Education and Experience

• A High School Diploma, HSE, or GED is required.
• A minimum of two (2) years of experience related to housing application and placement is required.
• Experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness, mental illness, substance use disorders, and/or low-income populations is required.
• Strong relationship-building, communication, and organizational skills are required.
• Proficiency with computers, including Microsoft Word and Excel, is required.
• The ability to work evening and/or weekend shifts on a rotating schedule is required.
• Prior experience working in a homeless shelter is preferred.
• Knowledge of mental health, substance use, and homelessness service systems is required.
• Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish is preferred.

Work Environment

This job operates in a shelter environment and works with a population who may experience mental illness, substance use, disability, HIV/AIDS, and other chronic illnesses.

Physical Demands

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, walk, sit, stoop, climb stairs, and/or kneel. Occasionally, the employee will have to lift and/or move up to 10 pounds.