Housing Specialist

BHcare; North Branford (CT); On-site; USD 42,000 - 56,000; Full time

Job summary

BHcare is seeking a Housing Specialist to provide housing stabilization and eviction prevention services for households at risk of homelessness in Connecticut. The role involves assessment, advocacy, resource coordination, and navigating financial assistance, with collaboration across partners, landlords, and internal teams.

The position is full-time, Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM–4:30 PM. The specialist will complete HMIS documentation, coordinate services, and support clients to maintain stable

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Experience working with individuals affected by mental health/Substance use disorders preferred.
• Experience with homelessness or housing instability preferred.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word/Outlook) required.
• HMIS experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Receive referrals from 211 through HMIS.
• Assist clients with intake and eligibility documentation.
• Coordinate services including mediation, legal and financial assistance.
• Advocate for clients and navigate community resources.
• Maintain accurate HMIS documentation and client outcomes.

Skills

Housing stabilization

Client advocacy

Case management

Documentation

Communication

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

HMIS

Microsoft Office

Job description

BHcare is seeking a compassionate, organized, and client-focused Housing Specialist to provide housing stabilization and eviction prevention services to individuals and families at risk of homelessness.

This is a full-time, 40-hour-per-week position working Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM.

The Housing Specialist serves as the primary point of contact for households referred through the statewide coordinated access system, providing assessment, advocacy, resource coordination, and financial assistance navigation to help clients maintain safe and stable housing. Working collaboratively with community partners, landlords, legal service providers, and internal team members, this position promotes BHcare's mission of improving the health and wellness of individuals, families, and communities through responsive, person-centered support services.

Accountable and Responsible for the Following Results

Direct Care

• Receive referrals from 211 through the statewide Homeless Management Information System (HMIS).
• Initiate contact with individuals and families at risk of eviction to begin the application process.
• Provide education to clients and landlords regarding program eligibility, requirements, and available services.
• Assist clients in completing intake applications and collecting documentation necessary to verify program eligibility.
• Document the rationale for approval or denial of applications in accordance with program requirements.
• Utilize HMIS to collect data, request financial assistance from program fiduciaries, and document client outcomes.
• Complete Habitability Standards inspections in accordance with program guidelines.
• Conduct comprehensive assessments to identify barriers to housing stability and develop individualized plans to prevent eviction.
• Coordinate services including mediation, legal assistance, financial assistance, and case management to support housing retention.
• Maintain ongoing communication and coordination with clients, landlords, and service providers until housing stability has been achieved.
• Advocate on behalf of clients and assist them in accessing community resources and supports.

Quality Management

• Adhere to BHcare standards of care, policies, procedures, and program requirements.
• Maintain accurate, timely, and complete documentation in HMIS and other agency record systems.
• Ensure data collection and reporting requirements are completed in a timely manner.
• Participate in required trainings, technical assistance opportunities, workshops, seminars, and supervision to support professional development.
• Support quality improvement initiatives and contribute to positive client and program outcomes.
• Maintain confidentiality and comply with all applicable federal, state, agency, and funding-source regulations.
• Work collaboratively with internal staff and community partners to ensure coordinated service delivery.
• May be required to use a personal vehicle for agency business.
• Regular and consistent attendance is an essential function of this position.
• Perform other duties and assignments as required.

Core Competencies

• Housing stabilization and homelessness prevention
• Client engagement and advocacy
• Case management and care coordination
• Crisis intervention and problem solving
• Community resource development
• Conflict resolution and mediation
• Documentation and compliance
• Cultural responsiveness and trauma-informed care
• Strong organizational, verbal, and written communication skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team

BHcare Core Values

Employees are expected to demonstrate BHcare's commitment to providing compassionate, person-centered services that promote hope, health, recovery, and housing stability while treating clients, colleagues, and community partners with dignity, respect, and professionalism.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer

We will consider applicants for this position without regard to any category protected by applicable federal, state or local law, including but not limited to: race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status or uniformed service member status.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or General Equivalency Diploma (GED) required.
• Experience working with individuals affected by mental health and/or substance use disorders preferred.
• Experience working with individuals and families experiencing homelessness or housing instability preferred.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Word and Outlook, required.
• Experience utilizing the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS) preferred.
• Strong organizational, communication, and documentation skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively with diverse populations.
• Valid driver's license, reliable transportation, and proof of insurance may be required for travel associated with program services.