Housing Specialist

Housing SpecialistSamaritan Daytop Village operates transitional housing programs for single adults and families experiencing homelessness across all five boroughs of New York City. The Housing Specialist helps individuals and families secure safe, affordable, and permanent housing by completing housing assessments, providing case management, and supporting clients with applications for housing programs and rental subsidies.This role builds relationships with landlords and real estate partners, maintains updated housing resources, inspects apartments for compliance, and works with case managers to address barriers to housing. The position also involves advocating for clients to obtain subsidies, keeping accurate documentation, and traveling within NYC.Candidates should have a high school diploma or equivalent, housing or real estate experience working with NYC DHS, strong computer skills, and the ability to work with diverse populations.ResponsibilitiesConduct housing assessments to determine clients' readiness, family composition, and housing needsHelp clients secure safe, affordable, and permanent housing optionsProvide comprehensive case management and support with housing and rental subsidy applicationsBuild and maintain relationships with reliable landlords, brokers, and real estate agenciesKeep an updated database of available housing resources and community partnersCoordinate with case managers to address client needs and resolve housing barriersInspect apartments to ensure compliance with city, state, and local housing standardsIdentify and address obstacles to housing such as language, income, or other challengesAdvocate for clients to obtain or maintain housing subsidies including Section 8, FEPS, and NYC programsMaintain accurate tracking forms, documentation, and timely housing placement reportsSupport development of individualized housing plans and assist with OOR registration, inspections, and linkagesTravel within NYC to view apartments with clients and support placement stepsQualificationsHigh School Diploma or equivalentAt least 6 months of housing or real estate experience working with the NYC Department of Homeless Services (DHS) or other similar city-operated organizations.Experience in case management or social services working with individuals experiencing homelessness, substance use, mental health challenges, or other complex needsKnowledge of housing subsidies, supportive housing and entitlement programsAbility to identify and address barriers to housing for clientsStrong communication, problem-solving, and advocacy skillsStrong computer skills, including Microsoft Office Suite and EHR systemsWillingness to complete CPR and First Aid trainingAbility to travel within the community to view apartments with clientsFlexible schedule to meet client and program needsAbility to work directly with individuals from diverse racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds