HOUSING ADVOCATE-LANDLORD ENGAGEMENT SPECIALIST - Human Services

*Please Apply via Rockfordil.gov. Please Do Not Apply on really.com*

Reports to: Homeless Program Manager Class Code: 4600

Pay grade: 505 FLSA: Non-exempt

Hourly Wage: $24.56

NATURE OF WORK

Performs technical work of some difficulty in the operation of Community Services Division Housing Advocacy Programs within the Health & Human Services Department, which targets the low income, disadvantaged populations or others in need of housing related services. Work involves a variety of tasks which may include case management, forms processing, assessment, referral, counseling, outreach, inspection, investigation, community relations, public information and advocacy.

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES

Work involves responsibility for performing a variety of intake, case management, forms processing, assessment, referral, counseling, outreach, inspection, investigation, public information, advocacy and other tasks, and for the conduct of elemental program management responsibilities including program planning, monitoring, reporting and basic evaluation. Work is characterized by considerable contact with clients, other public agencies, community organizations, and the public. Work is performed independently within a structured framework following the Housing First Model and applicable policies, procedures, rules, and regulations related to the area of assignment.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS (These essential duties are only illustrative.)

Works directly with property owners & households experiencing homelessness to address housing and homelessness crisis, meeting them where they are providing the appropriate housing intervention determined by each household’s unique level of need, with the goal of getting everyone housed.

Problem solves with others currently experiencing homelessness in building stability and navigate disproportionate access to resources and housing.

Navigates a variety of databases and computer programs including HMIS, Outlook, Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Google Docs.

Establishes and maintains files, records and other information related to assigned program; screens, processes and tracks client information; documents program procedures and information; and performs basic calculations.

Work with partner agencies to streamline services or determine proper interventions for clientele.

Participates in street outreach, when needed

Updates, tracks, and reports data on a monthly basis or “as-needed”; can create graphs, charts, or other “visualizations”.

Establishes a trusting relationship with Landlords / Management Teams by doing on-site visits, and continuous communication.

Maintains an ongoing list (spreadsheet) of available units to share with case managers

Assists clients to ensure an effortless transition into housing, and assists with any issues that need to be addressed including housing inspections, understanding lease expectations or other program requirements

Acts as a liaison between the landlord and the program’s case managers; facilitates problem solving with homeless agencies & landlords to help tenants remain in housing. This will include being the main contact for the landlords.

Attends meetings and conferences; provides public information relative to program activities and data in response to local stakeholders.

Transports clients to appointments as required by the position.

Be able to complete the apartment inspection training to expedite the property being available to house individuals.

Maintains reasonable and predictable attendance.

Other duties as assigned.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED

Works under the general supervision of the Community Services Director, who allows some latitude and independence in carrying out tasks and assignments to completion. Work is reviewed occasionally for timely accomplishments of tasks, for overall results achieved, and the degree to which the work meets the needs of the client served.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED

Supervision is not a responsibility of positions of this class. Employees may provide training in operational procedures, orient new employees, or assist in resolving unusual or difficult problems.

WORKING CONDITIONS AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Work is performed in an office setting and, in the field, and involves traveling throughout the city, and Winnebago and Boone counties. Work activities may also involve attending meetings, conferences, and training that involves out-of-town travel.

SUCCESS FACTORS (KSA’s)

Some knowledge of program management principles and techniques.

Some knowledge of laws, codes, ordinances, procedures, rules, regulations, and guidelines pertaining to the assigned program area

Knowledge of the mission, objectives, and available resources, relative to the assigned program.

Knowledge of community agencies and services that can be used as referrals.

Ability to interpret and explain program information to others and to follow procedures and regulations.

Ability to complete and process forms, checklists, and reports accurately.

Ability to maintain required records and files.

Ability to communicate effectively, orally and in writing.

Ability to establish and maintain effective relationships with coworkers, clients, and community organizations.

Superior organizational skills and attention to detail

Excellent interpersonal and communication skills

Ability to prioritize multiple tasks and meet frequent deadlines

Experience engaging with a diverse population and ability to respond appropriately to crisis situations

Ability to maintain professional boundaries and engagement skills with a challenging population and in non-traditional work conditions

Computer literacy-able to use multiple programs

EDUCATION, TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE

The completion of an Associate’s Degree in Human Services, Social Services or a related field and two years’ experience in work related to the area of assignment. Any satisfactory equivalent combination of experience and training which ensures the ability to perform the work may be substituted for the required experience. We will also consider applicants with lived experience of homelessness and/or mental health disorders who have acceptable training/certifications.

NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

Possession of a valid IL Driver’s License.

Residency Requirement:

All employees (except Police and Fire) shall reside anywhere in Winnebago County or anywhere within fifteen (15) miles of the Rockford City Hall within six (6) months of completion of their introductory period, department heads and City Administrator shall live within the municipal boundaries of the City of Rockford within six (6) months of their completion of their introductory period.

*Please Apply via Rockfordil.gov. Please Do Not Apply on really.com*

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $24.56 per hour

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Loan forgiveness
• Paid time off
• Referral program
• Retirement plan
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Ability to Commute:

• Rockford, IL 61104 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Rockford, IL 61104: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $25