Schedule: Monday through Friday 8-5

Position Overview: Housing Stabilization Specialist

As a Housing Stabilization Specialist, you will leverage your expertise in social services and housing practices to support Interfaith's programs. Your role will involve a range of technical and paraprofessional duties aimed at helping individuals and families meet their housing and basic needs.

Key Responsibilities:

• Case Management: Foster a positive, empathetic environment while creating and managing individualized case plans. Support clients in securing housing, obtaining benefits, increasing income, and achieving self-sufficiency.
• Record Keeping: Maintain accurate and timely case records of all services provided.
• Progress Monitoring: Track and assess participants' progress in developing necessary skills for positive outcomes.
• Housing Assistance: Identify and address housing barriers, assist clients in acquiring necessary documentation, and facilitate the search for suitable housing.
• Client Meetings: Conduct weekly meetings to review and support housing, financial, and self-sufficiency plans.
• Collaboration: Work closely with program staff to address client housing needs and preferences, and regularly communicate about housing alternatives and availability.
• Rental Assistance: Conduct income eligibility interviews, verify information, prepare subsidy applications, and maintain accurate client housing files.
• Inspections: Schedule and conduct Housing Quality Standards inspections and follow-up reviews.
• Landlord Relations: Manage and cultivate relationships with landlords and property managers to maintain a diverse inventory of housing options.
• Customer Service: Address landlord concerns, mediate disputes, and assist with rent payment and invoicing.
• Reporting: Prepare case-related reports and maintain documentation standards as per program and organizational policies.
• Data Entry: Complete monthly reporting and data entry tasks, achieving productivity goals.
• Additional Duties: Perform related tasks as required, including those associated with the Housing Choice Voucher Program and other rental assistance programs.
• Travel: Travel within the North County area is required; a valid driver's license, clean driving record, and insurance are necessary.

Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor's Degree in Social Work or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience: At least 2 years in housing assistance programs, social services for low-income households, tenant/landlord relations, or a related field. Experience with Housing Choice Voucher programs, HOME and CDBG programs, and Tenant Based Rental Assistance (TBRA) is preferred.
• Language Skills: Bilingual in English and Spanish is preferred.

Skills and Abilities:

• Knowledge of housing programs, policies, and procedures.
• Experience with Housing Quality Standards Inspections is a plus.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to maintain professional boundaries and manage diverse client needs.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to handle emergency situations calmly.
• Proficiency in multitasking and prioritizing tasks effectively.
• High degree of confidentiality, professionalism, and a strong sense of teamwork.

Working Conditions:

• Perform work in both indoor and outdoor settings.
• May encounter adverse conditions and exposure to health risks.
• Physical ability to perform tasks such as sitting, standing, walking, lifting up to 30 pounds, and operating office equipment.
• Must have good hearing, vision, and communication skills.