Housing Specialist

Job Objective: Housing Specialist will work in collaboration with the Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) case managers in finding appropriate affordable permanent housing for referrals to the program and/or eviction prevention interventions for participants in both KCMO and KCK Permanent Supportive Housing programs.

Essential Functions:

Participant Assessment and Support

• Conduct housing assessments to identify participant needs, preferences, and eligibility for housing in conjunction with program case managers

• Educate participants on tenant rights and responsibilities and Fair Housing

• Prepare reports on program housing outcomes and participant progress as needed

Housing Services and Placement

• Identify and secure suitable housing options in collaboration with participants

• Educate landlords about The Salvation Army and our PSH program

• Recruit landlords willing to work with our PSH programs and maintain an updated database of available housing resources

• Document participant interactions, housing placements, and case progress in the organization's HMIS data base/case file

• Assist participants with completing housing applications and understanding lease and occupancy agreements

• Outreach and facilitate ongoing relationship building with local landlords, management companies

• Maintain an updated excel spreadsheet that includes housing data for each participant household

• Conduct HUD Housing Quality Inspections (HQS) and Rent Reasonability on units being considered for program use and perform annual recertification on all leased units

• Prepare lease/contracts for the program director's approval

• Transport participants in the program vehicle to look at potential housing units

• Work in collaboration with case managers to facilitate moving arrangements

• Maintain consistent communication channels, both verbal and written, between stakeholders (e.g., participant, program case managers, referral source, and landlords)

Other Functions

• Complete all appropriate monthly and annual report forms

• Ensure case managers are provided copies of HQS Inspections and Rent Reasonable for inclusion in participants files

• Attend community meetings related to housing homeless participants and attend PSHP staff meetings

Minimum Qualifications:

Education: 4-year degree in a human service field; relevant experience, as determined by The Salvation Army, may be considered in lieu of education.

Experience: Minimum of 4 years' experience in property management, real estate, housing case management, or local housing services preferred; working with culturally diverse populations.

Certifications/Licenses:

• Case Worker Certification within X days of employment

• HUD Housing Inspection Certification preferred

Skills/Abilities:

• Knowledge of social problems related to the homeless community and referral resources

• Must be PC-proficient with common office applications including MS Excel, MS Word, Power Point, outlook or other email apps, and standard office equipment

• Must quickly become proficient in program data bases (HMIS) and other software as needed

• Knowledge of Trauma Informed Care and Housing First Principles desirable

• Must possess excellent verbal and written communication skills

• Demonstrate ability to handle crisis situations and multiple priorities

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team

• Flexibility to deal effectively with a variety of people, situations, problems and challenges

Supervisory Responsibility: None

Physical Requirements: Must be able to sit, stoop, bend, squat, climb, kneel, and walk over uneven floor surfaces including stairs and steps. Must be able to grasp, push, pull objects, such as reference materials files, cabinet drawers, and reach overhead. Must be able to visually and auditory assess and interact with participants to ensure their safety and well-being. Requires considerable work outside of the office and substantial driving.

Travel: None

Driving: Driving is required; employee must possess a valid driver's license from the state in which you reside. Must be approved through The Salvation Army Fleet Safety Program to drive either a Salvation Army or personal vehicle on Salvation Army business.

Working Conditions: Work is performed in a typical office setting and in the community; some weekend and evening work will be required.

All employees recognize that The Salvation Army is a church and agree that they will do nothing as an employee of The Salvation Army to undermine its religious mission.

The Salvation Army Mission: The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.

The Salvation Army is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates who are back-to-work, US Veterans, people with disabilities, people who have been impacted by the justice system, and/or people without a college degree are encouraged to apply.