What are the responsibilities and job description for the Human Services Specialist II position at City of Alexandria, VA?
Overview
This position is responsible for providing supportive housing services to adults with behavioral health issues; often with co-occurring diagnoses (mental health and substance use). The incumbent will use evidence-based practices to collaboratively develop strengths-based housing service plans with assigned clients. The Supportive Housing Specialist involves assessing clients' needs, developing individualized housing plans, coordinating housing placements, and providing ongoing support to ensure successful tenancy.
The Opportunity
- Work with participants to help them identify housing options of their choosing as efficiently as possible.
- Assist with completing, submitting and tracking all necessary processes pertaining to obtaining and maintaining housing with participants.
- Collaborate with other service providers, such as mental health agencies, substance abuse treatment programs, and employment services, to ensure holistic support for participants.
- Develop and maintain good working relationships and partnerships with landlords and property managers.
- Inform participants on the role, rights, and responsibilities of the tenant and landlord.
- Educate participants on strategies to help maintain their tenancy.
- Provide early identification and intervention for behaviors or other barriers that may jeopardize housing stability, such as late rental payments and other lease violations.
- Complete required case notes, housing stabilization plans, assigned reports, and other necessary documentation related to participants and input data into designated databases within established timeframes.
- Advise and help connect participants with other services and benefits available to them.
- Help participants access basic needs (e.g., food, toiletries, household supplies, transportation assistance, vital documents etc.) and develop a plan to accomplish Activities of Daily Living (e.g., cooking, housekeeping, basic finances, shopping, etc.)
- Developing an Individualized Service Plan (ISP) with participants based on their strengths and help monitor progress toward their goals specified in the ISP.
- Inform participants of and help connect them with other services and benefits available to them and assist participants by linking and helping them maintain community supports.
- Develop and maintain client records/files.
- Other duties as assigned.
Minimum & Additional Requirements
Bachelor's Degree in psychology, social services, public health, guidance, or a related field; three years of experience in the provision of mental health and/or substance abuse treatment services, including some experience at the level of Caseworker; or any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities. Employees must possess a valid driver's license issued by the State of their residence.
Preferred Qualifications
At least three years of experience working with individuals or families experiencing homelessness, housing instability, or related challenges. Knowledge of housing resources, rental assistance programs, and landlord-tenant laws. Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build rapport and trust with diverse populations. Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail. Ability to work independently as well as part of a multidisciplinary team.
Notes
Please note: There are two positions available under this job posting.
