The Housing Specialist assists families living in the Mary Eliza Mahoney Shelter to search for, identify and secure permanent housing. The work includes, but is not limited to, identifying and addressing barriers which may prevent families from obtaining permanent housing, screening families for eligibility for various housing programs and assisting families to apply for same, developing an individualized re-housing plan for each family/individual, working effectively with landlords, property managers, housing authorities, human service and community agencies to obtain and sustain permanent housing. The Housing Specialist must be willing to accompany families into the community to search for housing and apply and interview for same. The Housing Specialist works closely with the Stabilization Specialist to secure and maintain permanent housing for families.

POSITION DIMENSIONS:

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Education:
Required –
B.A. or B.S. degree preferred. 3 years of experience in human services/housing/homelessness field may substitute for B.A/B.S. degree, in which case a high school diploma is required.
Experience:
Required –
B.A. or B.S. degree and one year of experience in human services/housing/homelessness field. High school diploma with at least 3 years experience in human services/housing/homelessness field.

Knowledge/Skills:
Required-

? Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
? Excellent interpersonal skills.
? Knowledge of homeless and housing issues, including housing subsidies.
? Must be able to develop professional relationships with landlords, property managers, and other community personnel to secure permanent housing options.
? Must be able to work sensitively and effectively with people of diverse cultural backgrounds.
? Bi-lingual in Spanish and English.
? Must have valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.
? Must be willing to drive in Boston and surrounding communities.
? Must be willing to work a flexible schedule at times, including some evening hours.
? Knowledge of community resources.
? Ability to work both independently and as a team member.
? Ability to establish and maintain strong collegial relations with co-workers and service providers.
? Good computer literacy.
? Demonstrates a customer focus.
? Demonstrates team spirit in carrying out responsibilities.
? Possesses a work ethic that supports agency policies and goals.


D. License/Registration/Certification: CPR and First Aid Certification within 90 days of hire

E. Other: CORI check, valid driver’s license and able to drive minivan (up to 8 passengers) on city streets and highway