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Housing Specialist (46413)

Care For the Homeless, New York, NY, United States


CFH is seeking a Housing Specialist for its Shelter operated under contract with the New York City Department of Homeless Services (DHS). The role reports to DHS and is subject to inspections and audits by DHS, the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, and the Coalition for the Homeless of New York City.

Responsibilities

Conduct fieldwork to outreach and identify new housing resources.

Develop and maintain linkages with brokers, landlords, real estate companies, and management offices that lead to housing placements.

Facilitate appointments and accompany residents to apartment viewings; may include using public transportation.

Conduct housing inspections and complete/collect pre‑clearance forms for clients approved for apartments.

Work with brokers/landlords to obtain required documentation for subsidy packages.

Meet residents regularly (biweekly, monthly, etc.) to assess, update, and schedule viewing opportunities.

Maintain up‑to‑date housing case notes in CARES/HOME.

Assist clients with completing housing applications through NYC Housing Connect and other portals.

Work closely with the social service team, DHS, and HRA to expedite placements and make recommendations for successful moves.

Assist the Director of Social Services and Shelter Director to ensure performance objectives, including placement goals, are met.

Collaborate with all DHS and HRA staff to address client housing needs promptly.

Complete and submit HRA‑2010E applications.

Coordinate housing contracts, referrals, and follow‑up with service providers, including DHS.

Adhere to DHS timeframes for permanent housing placements.

Attend required DHS meetings.

Provide flexible work hours to meet client needs, including evenings and late nights.

Conduct workshops for residents on the housing search, application, and interview process as needed.

Teach residents how to advocate for themselves when seeking permanent housing.

Conduct quarterly workshops for landlords/brokers on housing subsidy changes as needed.

Assist with resident move‑outs, including lifting, loading, and unloading residents’ property.

Assist with shelter audit and compliance, preparing for state, city, and other inspections (DHS, OTDA, and Callahan).

Other duties as assigned by the Director of Social Services and/or Shelter Director.

Qualifications
Educational Requirements

Bachelor’s degree preferred.

Experience

Two or more years of experience working with mentally ill, medically frail, or homeless populations.

Exceptional knowledge of regional housing, supportive housing, Section 8, and other rental assistance programs.

Skill Sets

Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Strong PC skills, including Word and Excel.

Languages

Bilingual in English and Spanish strongly preferred.

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