Housing Specialist

Housing Specialist

The in-shelter Housing Specialist is responsible for supporting shelter residents in securing stable housing through comprehensive assessment, planning, and placement services. This role involves developing individualized housing plans, assisting clients in navigating NYC's housing voucher systems, coordinating housing searches, and maintaining strong partnerships with landlords and housing providers. The Housing Specialist works closely with case managers, DHS staff, and community organizations to ensure timely placements in compliance with all regulatory guidelines. The ideal candidate has experience in housing placement or case management, strong organizational and interpersonal skills, and a solid understanding of NYC's rental assistance programs and tenant rights.

Compensation & Benefits:

Estimated Starting Salary Range: $26 hourly

Pay commensurate with experience.

Full time benefits include Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K, and other possible benefits as provided. Benefits are subject to change with or without notice.

Housing Specialist Responsibilities Include:

• Partner with shelter guests to conduct comprehensive assessments of housing needs, goals, and program/voucher eligibility.
• Collaborate with guests to develop service plans informed by evaluations, incorporating clearly defined SMART goals.
• Provide ongoing support through regular meetings, helping guests achieve SMART goals and updating plans as needed.
• Identify permanent housing options aligned with guests' needs, goals, and eligibility.
• Facilitate active guest engagement in the housing process, including rental applications, move-out planning, and addressing barriers such as past evictions.
• Builds and maintains relationships with landlords, brokers, and management companies to secure suitable housing opportunities for clients.
• Identifies safe, compliant apartments that meet NYC health and safety standards, and accompanies clients to viewings.
• Assists clients with lease negotiations and securing/maintaining funding sources for housing.
• Conducts inspections to ensure housing solutions uphold dignity, privacy, safety, and compliance with Fair Housing laws
• Facilitates housing workshops to educate and empower clients.
• Maintains accurate, up-to-date records of clients' housing progress.
• Promote inclusive practices that address the needs of women, individuals with disabilities, and other vulnerable groups.
• Provide clients with pre-move information on tenant rights and responsibilities.
• Advocate for equitable access to housing, with a focus on marginalized and displaced populations.
• Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

Housing Specialist Experience, Education, Skills, Abilities requested:

Required:

• High School diploma required, college degree preferred.
• Must be fluent in Spanish.
• Must have a valid Drivers License and reliable transportation.
• Minimum 2 years' experience in housing placement
• Strong working knowledge of CityFHEPS, FHEPS, Section 8, and SOTA voucher programs
• Knowledge of landlord-tenant law and fair housing regulations.
• Proficiency with NYC housing systems such as CARES, ACCESS HRA, and Housing Connect
• Experience navigating DHS regulatory requirements, HPD/NYCHA housing inspections, and NYC landlord–tenant procedures
• Strong interpersonal skills and cultural competency to work with diverse populations.
• Excellent organizational and time management abilities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and case management databases.
• Must pass pre-employment qualifications of Cherokee Federal

Company Information:

Cherokee Nation Management & Consulting (CNMC) is a part of Cherokee Federal – the division of tribally owned federal contracting companies owned by Cherokee Nation Businesses. As a trusted partner for more than 60 federal clients, Cherokee Federal LLCs are focused on building a brighter future, solving complex challenges, and serving the government's mission with compassion and heart. To learn more about CNMC, visit cherokee-federal.com.

Cherokee Federal is a military friendly employer. Veterans and active military transitioning to civilian status are encouraged to apply.

Similar searchable job titles:

• Housing Placement Specialist
• Housing Navigator
• Housing Coordinator
• Housing Resource Specialist
• Housing Case Manager

Keywords:

• Department of Homeless Services (DHS)
• NYC shelter system
• Homeless services
• Emergency shelter
• Transitional housing

Legal Disclaimer: All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to protected veteran status, disability or any other status protected under applicable federal, state or local law. Many of our job openings require access to government buildings or military installations. Candidates must pass pre-employment qualifications of Cherokee Federal.