Housing Specialist - Washington County - HS041

Native American Rehabilitation Association of the Northwest, Inc. (NARA); Portland (OR); On-site; USD 36,000 - 49,000; Full time

Job summary

Native American Rehabilitation Association of the Northwest, Inc. (NARA) seeks a Housing Specialist in Washington County to provide housing placement and stabilization services for individuals experiencing homelessness. The role supports obtaining housing, overcoming barriers, arranging move‑in funding, and coordinating RLRA‑assisted rent.

Work is in‑person at Totem Lodge and Washington County. Collaborating with NARA teams and partners, you’ll screen, develop client‑led service plans, and

Responsibilities

• Outreach and engage individuals and families referred to the program. Complete screening and intake processes.
• Assess the housing stabilization needs for each participating household and develop a client-led housing service plan with each household.
• Assist program participants through the housing process including identifying an apartment/home, addressing possible barriers to housing approval, accessing funding for move in costs, and obtaining furnishings for their home.
• Complete program specific paperwork with participant to assist with housing stability.
• Develop positive relationships with collaborative partners, external providers, and property managers.
• Be responsive to property managers as concerns arise in order to support participants in successfully stabilizing in their housing and preventing eviction. Follow up with property managers to determine outcome of any needed interventions.
• Work in close coordination with other providers/ support systems to address the needs of participants and facilitate engagement in clinical services to address medical and behavioral health needs.
• Provide ongoing home and community-based services to participating households utilizing strengths-based case management while embracing the philosophy of Motivational Interviewing and Housing First. Utilize assertive engagement techniques to meet participants where they are willing to participate and coach them in setting goals and identifying realistic steps in order to achieve them.

Job description

Title: Housing Specialist - Washington County

Location: Totem Lodge and Washington County

Schedule: In-person, Monday through Friday 8:30am - 5:00pm.

Wage Range: $26.09 -$35.70, Hourly. Non-exempt

If you are a motivated and dedicated Housing Specialist looking for an opportunity to contribute to an organization making a positive impact, we want to hear from you!

At NARA Northwest, you’ll find a supportive work environment where every team member is valued and respected. Whether you’re passionate about healthcare, behavioral health, education, or social services, there’s a place for you to make a meaningful difference.

Company Mission

The mission of NARA NW is to provide education, physical, mental health services, and substance abuse treatment that is culturally appropriate to American Indians, Alaska Natives, and anyone in need.

About The Company

At NARA NW, we provide essential services and support to Native American and Alaska Native people, empowering them to lead healthy, fulfilling lives. As an organization rooted in cultural heritage and community values, we offer a unique and rewarding opportunity to make a direct positive impact in the lives of others.

We have over 400 employees in a wide range of programs and services, including medical and dental care, addiction treatment, housing assistance, and cultural enrichment programs, there are endless opportunities to grow and thrive in your career while making a difference in the lives of others.

Position Overview

The Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) Coordinator works independently and collaboratively with multiple NARA Northwest teams and other agencies to provide housing placement and stabilization services to vulnerable individuals who are homeless and whose health, behavioral health, and socioeconomic issues have prevented them from accessing housing. Services are focused around supporting participants to obtain and stabilize housing, end their experience with homelessness, and improve their health and move forward in their recovery. Participants will be individuals referred through the Washington County Community Connect referral system. All participants will receive rent assistance through the Regional Long-term Rent Assistance (RLRA) program.

What You Will Do

• Outreach and engage individuals and families referred to the program. Complete screening and intake processes.
• Assess the housing stabilization needs for each participating household and develop a client-led housing service plan with each household.
• Assist program participants through the housing process including identifying an apartment/home, addressing possible barriers to housing approval, accessing funding for move in costs, and obtaining furnishings for their home.
• Complete program specific paperwork with participant to assist with housing stability.
• Develop positive relationships with collaborative partners, external providers, and property managers.
• Be responsive to property managers as concerns arise in order to support participants in successfully stabilizing in their housing and preventing eviction. Follow up with property managers to determine outcome of any needed interventions.
• Work in close coordination with other providers/ support systems to address the needs of participants and facilitate engagement in clinical services to address medical and behavioral health needs.
• Provide ongoing home and community-based services to participating households utilizing strengths-based case management while embracing the philosophy of Motivational Interviewing and Housing First. Utilize assertive engagement techniques to meet participants where they are willing to participate and coach them in setting goals and identifying realistic steps in order to achieve them.