Housing Case Manager

Job Title: Housing Case Manager

Department: Housing and Supportive Services

Salary: $41,212.04 - $44,302.94 annually

Reports To: Housing Program Supervisor

Job Summary:

La Casa Norte is seeking a committed and compassionate Housing Case Manager to support clients experiencing homelessness or housing instability. This full-time position plays a key role in providing housing-focused case management. This role assists youth and families in obtaining and maintaining permanent, stable housing while promoting self-sufficiency, health, and wellness. This role may be assigned to Rapid Re-Housing, Scattered Sites, Pierce House, or other housing programs as needed.

Key Responsibilities:

Housing Stability & Case Management

• Provide intensive, client-centered case management rooted in Harm Reduction and Trauma-Informed Care.
• Conduct eligibility assessments and pre-housing evaluations.
• Develop individualized service plans with clear goals to increase stability and financial independence.
• Support clients through housing search, lease-up, move-in, and housing retention.
• Attend apartment viewings and other appointments with clients.
• Work collaboratively with housing location staff to assist clients in locating appropriate housing and developing positive relationships with landlords.
• Conduct home visits and community-based meetings with clients.
• Deliver life skills education on topics such as budgeting, conflict resolution, wellness, and tenant rights.
• Facilitate access to medical, legal, mental health, and substance use services through internal and external referrals.
• Mediate landlord-tenant issues and support long-term housing retention.

Advocacy & Resource Coordination

• Advocate for clients with public institutions (IDHS, Social Security, schools, etc.).
• Connect clients to LCN programs and external services, including food, clothing, employment, education, and benefits.
• Administer financial assistance for rent, deposits, and utilities when applicable.
• Support income growth through employment services or benefits enrollment.
• Educate clients on financial tools, credit repair, and responsible financial management.

Compliance, Reporting & Organizational Participation

• Maintain timely and accurate case notes and documentation using Homeless Management Information System (HMIS), ClientTrack, Caseworthy , and/or other databases.
• Ensure paperwork is completed in an accurate, consistent, and timely manner.
• Monitor client progress toward service plan goals and adjust as needed.
• Participate in on-call rotation and provide crisis intervention as required.
• Attend weekly staff meetings and other staff trainings.
• Participate in La Casa Norte's fundraising events as needed.
• Assist with data collection and completion of program reports.
• Perform other duties as required.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, or a related field or at least three (3) years of equivalent experience.
• Knowledge of and familiarity with family systems.
• Prior experience working with homeless and at-risk populations desired.
• Familiarity with Chicago's housing and human services systems.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, with the ability to facilitate group sessions.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Proficient in the use of computers, research tools and database systems.
• Valid driver's license, proof of insurance, and access to a reliable vehicle.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Proficiency in Spanish and English.

Core Competencies:

• Commitment to housing justice and client empowerment.
• Cultural competency and sensitivity.
• Collaborative spirit and strong advocacy skills.
• Adaptability in a dynamic service environment.

Working Conditions:

• Office and field-based work in client homes and community settings.
• Standard weekday hours with some evening and weekend shifts required.
• Participation in on-call rotation for crisis response.
• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds.

Compensation and Benefits Package Includes:

• Paid Time Off: 14 vacation days per year
• Personal Days: 7 personal days per year (carryover permitted with usage deadline)
• Holidays: 10 paid holidays annually
• Sick Leave: 6 sick days annually (with up to 20 hours carryover)
• Health Insurance: Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois (HMO/PPO options)
• Dental and Vision Insurance: Comprehensive coverage options
• Retirement Savings: 403(b) plan
• Life Insurance: $25,000 basic term life insurance (no cost)
• Disability Insurance: Long-term disability coverage (no cost)
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA): Pre-tax options for healthcare, transit, and dependent care
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential resources for employees
• Payroll: Direct deposit for convenience

Bargaining Unit Status:

• This position is represented by the Office and Professional Employees International Union (OPEIU), Local 39.

Equal Opportunity Statement:

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, national origin, or disability. LCN will consider requests or exceptions to job duties based on legally protected religious observances, as reasonable accommodations to an employee's disability, or as otherwise required by law.