Olmstead Housing Specialist

Buffalo, NY. WNY Independent Living. Closing Date: September 25, 2026.

About the role

Assist individuals seeking eligibility for housing subsidy to transition from institutional setting to the community. Work as part of a coordinated Independent Living service team.

Responsibilities

• Identify housing opportunities for individuals who are in need of housing in order to leave a nursing home, as well as for those who have unstable housing after leaving a nursing home.
• Assist eligible Olmstead Housing Subsidy (OHS) participants through all steps necessary for enrollment, including filling out housing applications, obtaining household goods and/or support for moving expenses, arranging unit inspections, etc.
• Work with applicants and/or the individuals Transition Specialist, Service Coordinator (SC), Nursing Home Discharge Planner, Care Manager (CM), natural supports, or advocate in order to ensure that a support services plan is in place for program enrollment.
• Conduct follow-up after subsidy is initiated, including but not limited to, verifying occupancy of unit and continued eligibility for program.
• Work as a collaborative member of the entire Transition Services Department and provide support to team members as appropriate and assigned by Transition Services Coordinator.
• Work to identify landlords, public housing and private housing in the region which may be suitable for individuals enrolled in the OHS program in the future.

Requirements

Education & Training: Associate degree in a related human services field OR Bachelors degree in a related human services field. Professional and life experience may be considered in lieu of, in full or part of academic credentials.

Knowledge & Experience: Two (2) years of work experience in a related human services field is required. Professional experience in housing, community organizing, Independent Living, long-term care and/or disability rights strongly preferred.

Skills

• Experience working with individuals with disabilities preferred.
• Must have reliable transportation in order to travel independently throughout Erie, Niagara, Genesee, Orleans and Wyoming Counties.
• Possesses excellent written, verbal, and organizational skills.
• Must have intermediate level of knowledge of computers including the use of Excel spreadsheets, databases, word processing and networks.
• Perform in a professional, conscientious, and efficient manner for the purpose of ensuring a better quality of life for persons with disabilities.

Pay

$41,000- $43,000/Year

Schedule

Full-time (FT)