Housing Specialist

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Training & development
• Vision insurance

SUMMARY
The Housing Specialist is an integral member of the Housing Services Team and works collaboratively with the Director of Housing Services, Rapid Rehousing Program Manager, Residential Services Lead Case Manager, Case Managers, local service providers, and Tarrant County Homeless Coalition (TCHC) to rapidly move individuals and families out of homelessness into safe and stable permanent housing. Collaborate with the DHS and RRH-PM to coordinate and request Rapid Rehousing referrals in accordance with monthly placement projections. Collaborate with individuals and families in housing search and placement activities, including selecting units in close proximity of school and work, to the greatest extent possible, mitigating potential transportation and or employment barriers.

RESPONSIBILITIES
Determine Rapid Rehousing eligibility and admissions and complete trauma-informed Intakes in adherence to Program Policy and Housing First principles. Ensure accuracy and completeness of all documents. Promote long-term housing stability and prevent returns to homelessness. Support landlord engagement and retention best practices focused on identifying barriers that prevent individuals and families from obtaining permanent housing. Implement solutions directed at increasing landlord participation in the rapid rehousing rental assistance program.
Track and regularly update Rapid Rehousing referrals utilizing internal tracking mechanisms, which include but are not limited to program participant demographics, date Coordinated Entry System (CES) referral received, date of admission, and date lease signed.
Build a diversified inventory of permanent and transitional housing units in the rental market throughout Tarrant County suitable to the unique needs of individuals and families served. Track and regularly update an active directory of available housing units, including eligibility criteria, unit size, rent amount, and other pertinent information.
Provide individuals and families a variety of property options while determining needs, living standards and economic viability for prospective families. Assist individuals and families with gathering necessary information for completing lease applications. Attend all necessary meetings between individuals and families and potential or current property management. If an individual/family is not approved for a lease based on criminal history, credit history, or rental/tenant history, mitigate, and resolve the issue as quickly possible.
Establish and maintain consistent verbal and written communication channels between all involved parties (i.e., individual/family, landlord, referral source, and collaborating).
Act as a liaison between individuals and families and property managers/landlords as needed. Negotiate leases on behalf of individuals and families in collaboration with the RRH-PM and DHS.
Complete a Housing Quality Standard Inspection and lead based paint (LBP) assessment in accordance with Agency policy and procedure and HUD regulations. Schedule and coordinate move-in; complete all necessary housing documents; and attend lease signing within 30 days from the date of admission.
Prior to or at move-in, identify each individual/familys need for household items, such as furniture, cleaning supplies, food, etc. Coordinate purchase and delivery of household items with the LCCM and individual/family.
Orient individuals and families to Rapid Rehousing Program requirements as indicated in lease agreements and Housing Assistance Payment Contract (HAP).
Develop and facilitate trainings for individuals/families and staff, including tenant rights and responsibilities, housing discrimination, finding and securing rental housing, and communication with landlords.
Regularly attend and actively contribute in monthly Coordinated Entry System (CES) Case Conferencing meetings in Arlington and Fort Worth; notify the CES Designee of bed availability at least monthly and when program capacity changes. Work in good faith with TCHC to house individuals and families referred to CTL from the Coordinated Entry List. Coordinate with Development to offer incentives to participating landlords and remediate landlord tenant issues.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
Bachelors degree in social work, Psychology, Sociology, or related field; a Masters degree is preferred. Two years of experience working with vulnerable/at risk populations. The ability to work with and recognize the special needs of individuals and families experiencing homelessness and knowledge of a wide range of community resources.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES
Advanced, creative, strategic and analytical thinking skills and experience in marketing, sales, and community organizing. High, thorough attention to detail and the ability to prioritize and execute multiple projects under demanding deadlines with a proactive approach. Knowledge of neighborhoods, housing/building codes, and safety standards for rental housing.
Strong written and oral communication skills, including the ability to effectively articulate CTLs mission, vision, and message. Clear, articulate communication skills are vital, as are interpersonal relationship and problem-solving skills. Demonstrate cultural competency through the ability to understand, communicate with and effectively interact with people of various cultural backgrounds.
Flexibility, self-motivation, excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to work well with all levels of management, employees/peers, and families, work proactively and independently with minimum supervision and maximum accountability.
Case management and case coordination skills. Knowledge of housing resources and community programs and how to access them; mainstream benefits programs and eligibility requirements; basic landlord-tenant rights and responsibilities and tenancy skills and or supports.
Ability to learn and use any other software programs needed in the operations of CTL programs, including, but not limited to the CTL ETO, HMIS ETO, and multiline phone systems.
Valid drivers license and willingness to travel in the community.