Housing Specialist

Housing Specialist

Samaritan 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.

Responsibilities

Conduct housing assessments to determine clients' readiness, family composition, and housing needs

Help clients secure safe, affordable, and permanent housing options

Provide comprehensive case management and support with housing and rental subsidy applications

Build and maintain relationships with reliable landlords, brokers, and real estate agencies

Keep an updated database of available housing resources and community partners

Coordinate with case managers to address client needs and resolve housing barriers

Inspect apartments to ensure compliance with city, state, and local housing standards

Identify and address obstacles to housing such as language, income, or other challenges

Advocate for clients to obtain or maintain housing subsidies including Section 8, FEPS, and NYC programs

Maintain accurate tracking forms, documentation, and timely housing placement reports

Support development of individualized housing plans and assist with OOR registration, inspections, and linkages

Travel within NYC to view apartments with clients and support placement steps

Qualifications

High School Diploma or equivalent

At 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 needs

Knowledge of housing subsidies, supportive housing and entitlement programs

Ability to identify and address barriers to housing for clients

Strong communication, problem-solving, and advocacy skills

Strong computer skills, including Microsoft Office Suite and EHR systems

Willingness to complete CPR and First Aid training

Ability to travel within the community to view apartments with clients

Flexible schedule to meet client and program needs

Ability to work directly with individuals from diverse racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds