Housing Specialist (US)

Program Mission Statement:
To provide culturally competent assistance to families with the tools and services that empower independence, leading to securing sustainable housing, employment and financial security as we move forward as a united community.

Overview of Role:
As a Housing Specialist, you will play a vital role in assisting individuals in securing stable housing. You will work closely with clients to assess their needs, develop individualized plans and provide support throughout the housing search process.

This job description is intended to convey information essential to understanding the scope of the role and is not exhaustive. Duties may be modified based on organizational needs.

Responsibilities:

  • Conduct comprehensive assessments of clients’ housing needs.
  • Develop personalized housing plans in collaboration with clients.
  • Assist clients in searching for suitable housing options, including affordable rentals, transitional housing and permanent housing.
  • Provide guidance and support to clients in navigating the housing application process, including completing paperwork and attending appointments.
  • Conduct housing searches, schedule property viewings and negotiate lease agreements on behalf of clients.
  • Advocate on behalf of clients to access housing subsidies, financial assistance and supportive services.
  • Maintain accurate and up-to-date client records, progress notes and case documentation.
  • Collaborate with community partners, landlords, and other stakeholders to support clients’ housing goals.
  • This position may require evening and/or weekend availability to accommodate client schedules.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Previous experience working in housing assistance or homelessness prevention.
  • Strong Knowledge of housing resources, landlord-tenant laws and housing subsidy programs
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Ability to work with individuals of diverse backgrounds and cultures.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
  • Proficient in Microsoft office suites.
  • Previous use of case or client management software.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in social work, human services, psychology, or a related field (preferred/not required).
  • Haitian Creole and/or other language proficiency (preferred/not required).
  • Reliable transportation, valid driver’s license and ability to meet minimum insurance requirements.

Supervisory Responsibility:
There are no supervisory responsibilities for this job

Physical Demands:
Predominantly operates in an office environment. Some periods of time may be spent in apartments or other dwellings. Requires the ability to operate standard office equipment and keyboards. Must have the ability to walk short distances, and/or drive a vehicle to deliver and pick up materials.

Location: The main office is located at 40 Glenn Ave in Newton, MA, with shelters located in Lexington and Woburn, MA.

Hourly Position: Between $23-$33/hour

Benefits:

  • Casual work environment
  • 15 vacation days (prorated based on work schedule)
  • 56 hours of sick time (prorated based on work schedule)
  • Medical, dental, vision insurance (90% employer paid)
  • Employer paid life insurance
  • 401k plan with matching employer maximum contribution of 4%

How to Apply:
Please submit a cover letter and resume to hr@haitihealth.org with the subject line “Housing Specialist”. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Due to the high volume of applicants, we will only contact those who are being considered for an interview. Thank you for your interest in HEI.

Commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion:
HEI is committed to the ongoing work of becoming an intersectional, antiracist organization and to an equitable, non-discriminatory, and anti-racist approach in all components of our organizational structure and operations, including the job application process. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status or any other basis covered by appropriate law.

This job description is intended to convey information essential to understanding the scope of the role and is not exhaustive. Duties may be modified based on organizational needs.