What are the responsibilities and job description for the Housing Specialist position at United Returning Citizens?

Job Description

Salary : $17-$18.25

Job Title : Housing Specialist

Position Type : Part-Time

Schedule : Monday Friday, 9 : 00 AM 3 : 00 PM

Location : 611 Belmont Ave, Youngstown, OH 44502, Suite B

Compensation : $17-$18.25 / hour

Position Summary :

The Housing Specialist at United Returning Citizens (URC) plays a critical role in assisting returning citizens in finding stable, safe, and affordable housing as they reintegrate into society. This position involves working closely with clients to assess housing needs, provide resources, and navigate the housing application process. The Housing Specialist will also collaborate with landlords, housing authorities, and community partners to secure housing options for individuals transitioning from incarceration. In addition, the Housing Specialist will provide ongoing support to clients throughout their housing journey to ensure long-term success and stability.

Key Responsibilities :

I. Client Support & Housing Navigation :

Client Assessment :

Assessing clients' eligibility and determining their housing and service needs.

Develop personalized housing plans and goals to help clients secure stable housing.

Housing Search Assistance :

Assisting clients with the search for available properties and negotiating terms on behalf of clients.

Help clients complete housing applications and provide guidance on required documentation (e.g., background checks, references, income verification). Ensuring clients understand their rights and responsibilities as tenants.

Resource Connection :

Provide clients with information on rental assistance programs and referring them to additional support programs or services, such as, government housing subsidies, and other financial support services.

II. Landlord & Property Management Relations :

Partnership Building :

Develop and maintain relationships with landlords, property managers, and local housing authorities to increase access to available rental units for returning citizens.

Negotiate terms and conditions of leases when necessary to accommodate client needs or overcome potential barriers to housing approval.

Tenant Advocacy :

Advocate on behalf of clients to address housing-related issues, such as landlord disputes or discrimination.

Ensure landlords are educated on the challenges faced by returning citizens and support the creation of fair, inclusive leasing agreements.

III. Support & Case Management :

Ongoing Client Support :

Provide ongoing case management to clients after housing placement to ensure they are adjusting well to their new living situation and addressing any emerging issues (e.g., maintenance problems, rent payment concerns).

Offer resources for clients to access community-based services (e.g., food assistance, employment programs, mental health counseling) to help ensure housing stability.

Monitoring Housing Stability :

Conduct regular follow-up with clients to monitor housing stability and address any challenges that may arise.

Assist clients in setting long-term goals for self-sufficiency, including employment, financial management, and community engagement.

IV. Community Outreach & Collaboration :

Partnership Development :

Build and maintain strong relationships with local housing agencies, community organizations, and service providers to ensure clients have access to a wide range of support services.

Resource Coordination :

Coordinate with other URC programs to provide comprehensive support to clients in areas such as employment, legal assistance, and family reunification.

Attend community meetings, housing forums, and advocacy events to stay informed about housing policy changes and resources.

V. Reporting & Documentation :

Record Keeping :

Maintain accurate records of client interactions, housing applications, and housing placements in URCs case management system.

Prepare and submit monthly or quarterly reports on housing placements, client progress, and housing outcomes.

VI. Additional Duties :

Special Projects :

Assist with the development of housing initiatives, grants, and outreach campaigns to enhance URCs housing program.

Participate in training and professional development opportunities to stay current on housing laws and best practices.

Qualifications & Skills :

Experience :

At least 2 years of experience in housing assistance, case management, social services, or related fields.

Familiarity with low-income housing programs, government assistance (e.g., Section 8), and landlord-tenant laws.

Communication Skills :

Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with clients, landlords, community partners, and other stakeholders.

Problem-Solving & Advocacy :

Ability to advocate for clients in difficult situations and creatively solve housing challenges.

Experience negotiating with landlords or property managers to secure housing for individuals with barriers to housing.

Organizational Skills :

Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple cases and housing searches simultaneously.

Experience with case management software or databases is a plus.

Work Environment :

Ability to work well under pressure in a fast-paced, client-centered environment.

Must be able to work both independently and collaboratively within a team environment.

Transportation & License :

Reliable personal transportation and valid drivers license required for site visits, meetings, and outreach efforts.

Must maintain a valid drivers license, a clear driving record (excludes non-moving violations, such as parking tickets) and maintain minimum auto insurance coverage in accordance with Ohio legal requirements.

Additional Requirements :

Must be able to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion and professionalism.

Must be committed to URCs mission of supporting returning citizens and their successful reintegration into society.

Flexibility to work outside standard office hours when necessary, including evenings and weekends, to accommodate client needs.

Why Join United Returning Citizens?

United Returning Citizens (URC) is an organization dedicated to empowering returning citizens through support, resources, and opportunities for reintegration. As a Housing Specialist, you will play an essential role in helping individuals regain stability and independence through secure housing. This position offers the chance to make a meaningful impact in the lives of returning citizens while gaining valuable experience in housing assistance, case management, and community outreach.

Salary : $17 - $18

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