Housing Specialist

JCCA is seeking a resourceful Housing Specialist to support youth transitioning out of foster care as they move toward independence and long-term stability.

In this impactful role, the Housing Specialist will help young people navigate complex housing systems, secure safe and affordable housing, and develop the skills needed to maintain stable living environments. The ideal candidate is an advocate, relationship-builder, and problem-solver who is committed to empowering youth and preventing homelessness.

This is an exciting opportunity to make a direct difference in the lives of young adults by helping them access critical housing resources and achieve greater self-sufficiency.

Summary of Job Duties:

Housing Navigation & Advocacy

• Assess housing needs and identify individualized housing pathways for youth preparing to age out of foster care
• Guide youth through housing applications, including:
  • NYCHA
  • Section 8
  • City FHEPS/FHEPS
  • Supportive housing
  • NYC Housing Connect affordable housing lottery
• Track housing application progress and proactively follow up with housing agencies, landlords, and providers
• Support youth during housing appointments, interviews, lease signings, and move-ins
• Coordinate emergency and crisis housing referrals when needed

Partnership Building & Systems Coordination

• Build and maintain relationships with landlords, brokers, housing providers, and community organizations
• Stay current on city, state, and federal housing resources, policies, and eligibility requirements
• Serve as a liaison between the program, housing partners, advocacy organizations, and oversight agencies
• Collaborate closely with case planners, permanency specialists, and Fair Futures/LEAP teams to ensure comprehensive support services

Youth Development & Program Support

• Facilitate life skills workshops focused on:
  • Housing readiness
  • Tenant rights
  • Budgeting
  • Independent living skills
• Develop curriculum and facilitate engagement-based sessions for youth
• Provide technical assistance and housing consultations to program staff
• Maintain accurate documentation, case notes, and housing outcomes in program databases
• Participate in supervision, trainings, and team meetings

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor's degree in Human Services or a related field
• Minimum of 2 years' experience working with at-risk, foster care, or system-involved youth
• Strong understanding of trauma-informed care and youth development
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong organizational, time-management, and follow-up skills
• Ability to build collaborative relationships with youth, colleagues, landlords, and external partners
• Ability to navigate complex systems while maintaining a youth-centered and strengths-based approach

Preferred

• Experience with NYC housing systems and subsidy programs
• Knowledge of foster care, permanency, or transitional living services
• Experience facilitating workshops or life skills programming
• Comfort using data and outcomes to support decision-making and service planning

Why Join JCCA?

• Opportunity to make a lasting impact on youth transitioning to adulthood
• Collaborative and mission-driven team environment
• Meaningful, community-based work that changes lives
• Professional development and growth opportunities
• Supportive leadership committed to innovation and equity

If you are passionate about housing justice, youth empowerment, and helping young people build stable futures, we encourage you to apply.

Hourly Rate: $31.32 per hour (annualized $57K)