What are the responsibilities and job description for the Multilingual Housing Navigation Specialist (Full Time, 1.0 FTE) - Central Office position at Portland Public Schools?
POSITION OVERVIEW: Multilingual Housing Navigation Specialist
The Housing Navigation Specialist provides direct support to individuals and families experiencing housing instability or homelessness for multilingual speaking families. This role focuses on helping clients secure stable, long-term housing by assisting with applications, navigating housing programs, and coordinating with landlords and service providers.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
QUALIFICATIONS:
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Portland Public Schools is committed to maintaining a work and learning environment free from discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, pregnancy, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, ancestry, place of birth, age, citizenship status, veteran status, political affiliation, or disability, as defined and required by state and federal laws.
The Housing Navigation Specialist provides direct support to individuals and families experiencing housing instability or homelessness for multilingual speaking families. This role focuses on helping clients secure stable, long-term housing by assisting with applications, navigating housing programs, and coordinating with landlords and service providers.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Assist individuals and families in identifying and securing stable housing.
- Conduct assessments to determine housing needs, eligibility, and available resources.
- Guide clients through the housing application process, including paperwork, documentation, and landlord communications.
- Educate clients on tenant rights, responsibilities, and financial planning for sustainable housing.
- Build and maintain relationships with landlords, property managers, and housing agencies.
- Connect clients with supportive services such as employment assistance, financial counseling, and social services.
- Track and document client progress, maintaining accurate records in compliance with grant requirements.
- Develop individualized service plans and track progress toward housing and stability goals.
- Work collaboratively with district McKinney-Vento liaison, school social workers, and family and community specialists to identify students and families with housing needs.
- Facilitate workshops and informational sessions for families on housing options, tenants’ rights, budgeting, and other relevant topics.
- Collect data and expenditure documentation for reporting purposes.
- Attend the district’s monthly Mckinney-Vento meeting and the biweekly Project meeting with Project staff, Mckinney-Vento liaison, grant manager, and program director.
QUALIFICATIONS:
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Human Services, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
- Experience: At least 2 years of experience in housing services, case management, or social services.
- Knowledge of housing programs, tenant rights, and landlord-tenant mediation.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills to work effectively with diverse populations.
- Ability to work independently, manage multiple cases, and problem-solve effectively.
- Experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness, mental health challenges, or financial hardships.
- Bilingual skills in another language required (Spanish preferred).
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Portland Public Schools is committed to maintaining a work and learning environment free from discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, pregnancy, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, ancestry, place of birth, age, citizenship status, veteran status, political affiliation, or disability, as defined and required by state and federal laws.
