Permanency Specialist-Housing Stability Services

Comcareme; Bangor (ME); On-site; USD 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Comcareme in Bangor, Maine is looking for a compassionate HSS Permanency Specialist to assist individuals experiencing homelessness as they achieve housing stability. This role involves providing in-person support, facilitating skill-building activities, and helping participants access community resources.

The ideal candidate will have strong interpersonal skills, a commitment to Housing First principles, and ideally, lived experience with homelessness.

Qualifications

• Lived experience with homelessness strongly preferred.
• One year of direct service experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness.
• Experience providing case management or housing services preferred.

Responsibilities

• Provide in-person support to participants in their homes.
• Build trusting relationships and encourage engagement in services.
• Assist participants with daily living tasks and housing stability.
• Support participants during housing transitions.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Ability to build rapport

Problem-solving skills

Job description

Position Summary

The HSS Permanency Specialist provides hands-on support to individuals experiencing homelessness as they transition into and maintain permanent housing. Working from a Housing First and trauma-informed approach, this position helps participants build life skills, access community resources, maintain stable housing, and achieve their personal goals.

This role is highly relationship-based and community-focused. The Permanency Specialist works directly alongside participants in their homes and communities, offering practical support, encouragement, advocacy, and skill-building services. The ideal candidate is compassionate, flexible, and passionate about supporting individuals on their path to long-term housing stability.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide in-person support to participants in their homes and throughout the community.
• Build trusting relationships with participants and encourage engagement in voluntary supportive services.
• Assist participants with daily living tasks, housing stability, employment, education, and other personal goals.
• Support participants during housing transitions, including move-ins, furnishing apartments, and settling into new housing.
• Conduct regular check-ins with participants to assess needs and provide ongoing support.
• Facilitate skill-building activities, supportive groups, and recreational opportunities.
• Accompany participants to appointments when requested.
• Assist participants with transportation and access to community resources.
• Maintain positive relationships with landlords and property managers and help resolve housing-related concerns.
• Document participant contacts and progress in a timely manner.
• Collaborate with case managers and other service providers to ensure coordinated care.
• Utilize Motivational Interviewing, trauma-informed practices, and a client-centered approach in all interactions.
• Carry Narcan and respond appropriately within agency protocols.
• Participate in required trainings, supervision, and team meetings.

Qualifications

• Lived experience with homelessness strongly preferred.
• At minimum, one year of direct service experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness.
• Experience providing direct support, case management, peer support, housing services, or human services preferred.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Commitment to Housing First principles, trauma-informed care, and culturally responsive service delivery.
• Ability to maintain professional boundaries and accurate documentation.
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.

What We're Looking For

We are seeking someone who:

• Is passionate about helping people achieve housing stability and self-sufficiency.
• Builds rapport easily and works effectively with diverse populations.
• Respects participant choice and autonomy.
• Is adaptable, creative, and comfortable working in community-based settings.
• Creates a welcoming environment for individuals of all backgrounds.