Housing Stability Specialist

John Howard Society of Ottawa; Ottawa; On-site; CAD 54,000 - 61,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Benefit plan

4 weeks vacation annually

Defined Contribution Pension Plan

Continual learning and development

Job summary

John Howard Society of Ottawa is seeking a Housing Specialist to support housing searches, landlord relations, and housing retention for clients. You will develop strong working relationships with landlords, city services, and support programs, coordinating with Housing Case Based Managers to ensure client success.

Based in Ottawa, you will help clients access housing, navigate subsidies, and arrange move-ins, while maintaining a trauma‑informed, client‑centered approach in a collaborative team

Qualifications

• Three to five years of experience in homelessness and supportive housing
• University Degree/College Diploma in social sciences or related field or equivalent experience
• Ability to review rental ledgers and liaise with landlords and income support providers (OW/ODSP)
• Knowledge of Housing First, Ontario Landlord Tenant Act, SPDAT, and HIFIS
• Assist in resolving tenancy issues including Landlord and Tenant Board processes
• Arrange viewings, negotiate with landlords, and assist with move-in arrangements and housing allowances
• Familiarity with housing issues affecting low-income individuals, youth, and those in the criminal justice system
• Clear Criminal Record Check for working with vulnerable populations
• Collaborative team player with strong motivation and relationship-building skills
• Coordinate on-site program functions with a gender- and trauma-responsive approach
• Excellent people skills for clients, colleagues, landlords, and agencies
• Willingness to collaborate with community partners and emergency services
• Ability to work with Housing Based Case Managers from JHS Ottawa and The Elizabeth Fry Society

Responsibilities

• Assist with housing searches and placement for clients
• Develop and maintain relationships with landlords and service providers
• Support housing retention and prevent housing loss
• Coordinate viewings and move-in arrangements
• Assist with housing allowance applications and renewals
• Work as part of a team with Housing Case Based Managers
• Engage with clients across diverse backgrounds in a trauma-informed manner

Skills

Housing searches

Landlord relations

Housing retention

Team collaboration

Communication

Problem solving

Mediation skills

Criminal justice knowledge

Education

University Degree/College Diploma in social sciences or related field

Job description

John Howard Society of Ottawa is seeking a Housing Specialist to support housing searches, landlord relations, and housing retention for clients. You will develop strong working relationships with landlords, city services, and support programs, coordinating with Housing Case Based Managers to ensure client success.

Based in Ottawa, you will help clients access housing, navigate subsidies, and arrange move-ins, while maintaining a trauma‑informed, client‑centered approach in a collaborative team