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Housing Multnomah Now (HMN) Housing Specialist

Immigrant and Refugee Community Organization, Portland, OR, United States


Position Housing Multnomah Now (HMN) Housing Specialist

Job Details

Job Type: Full-time

Job Class/Grade: Specialist 1 / Grade 8

Wage: Starting at $48,600 per year based on experience

Location: IRCO Pacific Islander & Asian Family Center, 8040 NE Sandy Blvd, Portland, OR 97213 (Hybrid schedule)

FTE: 1.0 Full‑Time with Benefits (Regular)

Duration: Limited role until June 30, 2026

Number of Positions: 1

Program Summary The Housing Multnomah Now (HMN) program is part of Multnomah County’s coordinated entry system and provides housing‑focused services to households experiencing homelessness. The program emphasizes rapid connection to permanent housing through coordinated access, reduced‑screening housing opportunities, rental assistance, and housing retention support. HMN is delivered through an interagency team approach to ensure equitable access to housing resources across the county.

Position Summary The HMN Housing Specialist works directly with adult households experiencing homelessness to assess vulnerability, support housing search and placement, and provide short‑term rental assistance and housing retention case management. The Specialist builds trusting, strength‑based relationships with participants and collaborates closely with the HMN interagency team to support households in achieving permanent housing and long‑term stability.

Essential Functions

Conduct intake, screening, and assessment of adult households experiencing homelessness

Assess household vulnerability and eligibility within the coordinated entry system

Support participants in housing search, lease‑up, and transition into permanent housing

Assist participants with accessing housing units with reduced screening criteria

Provide rental assistance and housing retention case management

Maintain accurate and complete case files and documentation

Enter and maintain client data in Multnomah County’s Service Point (HMIS) system

Enter required data into IRCO’s internal data tracking system

Coordinate and distribute approved assistance payments to landlords or utility providers in accordance with program guidelines

Complete required case management paperwork and reports in a timely manner

Secondary Functions

Attend training, meetings, and activities related to the Housing Multnomah Now program

Participate in staff meetings, training, and committees supporting the Housing Stability Program and agency goals

Collaborate with staff across IRCO programs and with external community partners

Refer participants to internal and external resources as appropriate

Work effectively with individuals from varied backgrounds

Education & Experience

Some college coursework or equivalent combination of training and experience

1–2 years of experience required

Preferred Qualifications

Strong analytical, problem‑solving skills

Strong community‑focused interpersonal and organizational communication skills

Effective verbal, written, and phone communication in a positive manner

Strong communication skills in a multilingual, multi‑background team and organization

Physical, Mental, & Environmental Requirements

Hybrid or office setting job

Requires analytical problem‑solving and decision‑making ability

Work under close supervision

Well‑protected environment with minimal hazards or obstacles

Stable work schedule with no fluctuations

Supervisory Responsibilities Positions at this level are not responsible for any supervisory functions, but may occasionally be asked to orient and/or train new employees or volunteers.

Benefits

Many flexible working arrangements and schedule

Opportunity to work with a diverse, international team

Work that helps your community

3–6 weeks of PTO per year

401(k) match of over 100% on first 5%, immediate vesting

3% match for student loans or college savings

12 paid holidays and 1 floating holiday

Medical & dental insurance options with 90% coverage for employee and families, no deductibles

Employer‑paid life, short‑term, and long‑term disability insurance

Flexible spending accounts

Equal Opportunity Employer IRCO is an equal‑opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any characteristics protected by State and Federal law. IRCO will make reasonable accommodations to meet obligations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and state disability laws.

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