Housing Specialist

In our Adult Community Services Program, this position works as a member of a team to assist in housing-related matters. This position will offer blended support to our Pittsfield and North Adams programs. Travel between locations is required. 

Essential Functions:

• Work within the Housing First and Rapid Housing model.
• Collaborate with the local Housing Authorities, landlords and community service agencies to seek affordable housing options
• Assist Person’s served to identify housing options, housing searches and acquiring furniture
• Assist Person’s served to set up and/or discontinue utilities
• Support Person’s to apply for housing subsidies including support to complete applications, acquire required documentation, and serve as an advocate when needed
• Assist in moving Persons
• Assist Persons through tenancy preservation and advocate for Persons when necessary
• Actively support Person’s served in the community and/or residential setting to find safe and affordable living situations
• Serves as primary contact for housing assistance for Persons
• Coordinates process of leases, landlord negotiations, and contracts
• Teach skills to maintain housing
• Troubleshoot housing issues as they arise
• Encourage and support persons served in developing a natural support network.
• Collaborate and participate in meetings and service coordination with outside agencies and community supports.
• Teach money management skills to persons-served.
• Complete monthly apartment inspections for project based subsidies
• Attend all required treatment meetings
• Provide Medication Administration to Persons per MAP protocol.  This may include medication administration to cover staff emergencies and coverage needs.  Audit medications as assigned.

Qualifications:

• GED/H.S Diploma, Associates or bachelors degree in related field preferred, or 3-5 years of human service experience
• Proficient computer skills and knowledge of Microsoft office
• Ability to work with a wide variety of people
• Excellent oral & presentation skills 
• Leadership talent and the ability to delegate effectively
• Knowledge of community resources
• Ability to conduct yourself professionally and manage confidential information
• Ability to advocate program services to community members

Other Requirements:

• Ability to pass a CORI (Criminal Background check) and DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles check)
• Complete all required trainings within four months of hire or program transfer (MAP, CPR, First Aid, Human Rights, Trauma Informed Care, Housing First, Mutuality, Orientation, Motivational Interviewing, etc.
• Driver's License and ability to use personal vehicle for business use

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