Housing Specialist

Familylinks; Pittsburgh (Allegheny County); On-site; USD 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in social services seeks a Housing Specialist responsible for coordinating services to support families at risk of homelessness. The role encompasses advocacy, resource support, and monitoring, ideally suited for candidates with experience in social work and case management. Candidates must possess strong communication, problem-solving skills, and a commitment to cultural sensitivity.

Qualifications

• At least two years of relevant case management experience.
• Experience working with the homeless population is required.
• Valid PA Driver's License and access to a vehicle.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate services and monetary assistance for homeless prevention.
• Conduct housing triage and develop Housing Stabilization Plans.
• Maintain communication with caseworkers and families.

Skills

Communication

Interpersonal Skills

Problem-Solving

Cultural Sensitivity

Presentation

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Social Work or a related field

Tools

Microsoft Office

KIDS

HMIS systems

Job description

The Housing Specialist is primarily responsible for coordinating services and monetary assistance to participants in the CYF Homeless Prevention housing program. The main duties include assessments, advocacy, resource supports, housing planning, and monitoring supports for the participants.

Familylinks' Homeless Prevention Program provides one-time monetary, housing, and basic assistance to CYF families who are housing unstable or at immediate risk of homelessness. Families referred to this service must be residents of Allegheny County and actively involved with Allegheny County CYF. Funds are used for families aiming for preservation or reunification. The program follows the Housing First Model, accepting participants without regard to criminal records, eviction histories, employment, credit worthiness, income, or other barriers. Funds can cover back-due rent, utilities, security deposits, or a portion of the first month's rent. Participants are housed in scattered-site apartments throughout Allegheny County, where they are the leaseholders.

Position Qualifications:

• A Bachelor's Degree in Social Work or a related field is preferred, with at least two years of relevant case management experience.
• Minimum of two years' experience working with the homeless population is required.
• A valid PA Driver's License and access to a vehicle are required.
• Availability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, is necessary.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office; experience with KIDS and HMIS systems is a plus.
• Strong presentation, communication, and interpersonal skills are required.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Self-directed, flexible, with strong problem-solving skills.
• Ability to support the organization's mission and demonstrate cultural sensitivity.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Accept OCYF referrals, maintain communication with caseworkers and families.
• Participate in OCYF conferencing and teaming meetings.
• Conduct housing triage and develop Housing Stabilization Plans for eligible participants.
• Act as a mediator between landlords, participants, and property managers.
• Create budgets and educate participants on financial management.
• Provide workshops and training to participants.
• Assist with navigating housing options, including the private market and housing vouchers.
• Participate in appeals for housing voucher denials.
• Identify and help obtain necessary documentation for housing and vouchers.
• Maintain and expand an internal landlord database.
• Inspect housing units to meet requirements before and during participation.
• Transport participants for housing viewings and meetings.
• Collaborate with OCYF case workers and participate in household teamings.
• Testify in court as needed.
• Support landlord outreach, marketing, and education efforts.
• Submit rental and utility reimbursement vouchers promptly.
• Refer participants to job training, education, and supportive services.
• Maintain case files, service plans, and progress notes.
• Maintain regular contact with participants and document interactions.
• Co-facilitate workshops like PREP when needed.
• Participate in county audits and staff development.
• Enter data into KIDS, HMIS, and other systems, and track outcomes.
• Manage rental properties, including leasing, rent collection, and evictions.
• Work with tenants and housing agencies to resolve issues and facilitate services.
• Respond to emergency repair calls and coordinate maintenance.
• Establish rental assistance needs and recertify eligibility.
• Advocate for clients to access additional services.
• Attend all required meetings, trainings, and supervisions.