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.