Housing Specialist | Residential | Mental Health

About the role

CSPNJ, a mental health nonprofit, is looking for a full-time Housing Specialist in the central region. Under the direction of the Deputy Director, the Housing Specialist collaborates regularly with community partners to identify housing opportunities, facilitate referrals, address person served needs, and ensure compliance with housing program requirements. Serves as a liaison between person served and external agencies, fostering partnerships that enhance access to stable housing resources and supportive services. Monitors ongoing partnerships, resolves issues proactively, and promotes positive communication to strengthen community networks and improve client outcomes. 55% of time is spent in direct face-to-face contact with residents.

Highlights

• Develops and maintains strong professional relationships with brokers, landlords, linkage agencies, referral sources, and government housing agencies to support effective housing placement and service coordination.
• Provides proactive follow-up home visits to promote housing stability and support continued progress toward self-sufficiency.
• Offers ongoing advocacy, emotional support, active listening, and problem-solving assistance while helping reduce social isolation.
• Identifies and connects applicants with appropriate community resources and services to encourage successful reintegration, independence, and overall well-being.

Requirements

• MUST have a Bachelor’s degree in a mental health related discipline.
• C.P.R.P. (Certified Psychiatric Rehabilitation Practitioner) a plus.
• The ability to write clear, concise, and accurate billable progress notes.
• Experience with real estate and knowledge of State and local housing regulations.
• Excellent communication skills, particularly listening, mediation, and writing skills.
• Detail oriented to complete requirements of files and contract compliance.
• Ability to effectively engage and support individuals with mental health diagnoses through empathy, professionalism, and trauma-informed approaches.
• Proficient in MS Office products, as well as general computer literacy.
• Bilingual skills a plus!
• MUST have a valid Driver’s License with acceptable driving record.
• Lived Experience: CSPNJ prioritizes hiring people who use their own life experience dealing with mental health/substance use issues to inspire and support others.

Benefits

• Benefit Eligible (Medical, free DMO dental & free vision)
• 6 weeks PTO
• 11 Holidays

Pay

PM22 Compensation details: $20.67–$21.39 Hourly Wage