Housing Specialist, Rapid Rehousing - Primavera Foundation

The Housing Specialist assists program participants in identifying and applying for units in the community, as well as develops and maintains positive relationships with landlords. The successful candidate will be a culturally-sensitive social services professional who has a positive influence on others, thrives on successfully facilitating processes, works at a faster-than-average pace, is extremely disciplined, detail-oriented and results-oriented, sets high standards for self and others, and demonstrates top-notch planning and coaching skills.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES(Work assignments may vary depending on the department's needs and will be communicated to the applicant or incumbent by leadership):

Housing Specialist Responsibilities

• Conducts regular housing search case management appointments with program participants using a hybrid model, serving both walk ins and internal referrals from a variety of Primavera Programs.
• Develops and effectively maintains a working caseload of up to 30 participants.
• Helps participants identify and apply for eligible housing options and connects them with property managers in the community.
• Assists in finding units within Fair Market Rent(FMR) guidelines as applicable, and accurately calculates utility allowance for such units.
• Contacts landlords and property managers on behalf of participants, helping them to overcome their housing barriers.
• Utilizes internal Transportation Service processes to help participants view units, and attend other appointments needed to obtain housing.
• Describes Rapid Rehousing (RRH) and other types of housing programs to property managers in the community, communicating professionally at all times, and maintaining positive relationships with landlords.
• Provides referring departments with regular updates on status of their participant"s housing search, maintains detailed and accurate notes in applicable files and databases.
• Communicates application approvals to participants and staff, provides necessary followup assistance to program participants and landlords.

Other Responsibilities

• Does outreach to properties and landlords to establish new partnerships, understand minimum requirements of applicants, and maintain a list of viable properties for all household compositions and demographics.
• Enters info into database same day whenever possible, no later than 48 hrs. Maintains 99% data accuracy at all times.
• Ensures confidentiality of participant information, and maintains professional boundaries.
• Performs other related duties as requested/assigned by leadership.
• Consistently demonstrate Primavera's guiding principles of integrity, respect, accountability, compassion, and leadership.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Knowledge of barriers that people face who are low income/homeless, including housing, employment, mental and physical health.
• Knowledge of AZ Landlord Tenant law and Fair Housing practices.
• Knowledge and commitment to Housing First philosophy and strategies.
• Strong interviewing and assessment skills.
• Ability to work effectively with program participants, the public, staff and volunteers.
• Ability to communicate effectively and accurately orally and in writing.
• Proficiency with office computer systems and software, including Microsoft Windows, Outlook, Word Excel, and a web based database.
• Ability to function with minimal supervision.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree in Social Work or related field.
• A minimum of two years experience in social services program providing case management services.
• One year experience working with people who are low income or homeless.
• Has or must be able to obtain fingerprint clearance card.
• Has or must be able to obtain first aid/CPR certification.
• Must have reliable transportation, a valid driver's license, a clean driving record, currentregistration, and proof of insurance coverage to attend off site meetings and conduct homevisits.
• Note: A combination of relevantexperience and educational background may beconsidered in lieu of degree.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Two years experience working in the multi- family housing sector, preferably in leasing or property management.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish).
• Experience working in a program providing rent assistance.

PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT/CONDITIONS

• Office environment with moderate office noise levels.
• Ability to meet with participants in office setting and facilitate deskwork processes on full workday basis.
• Visual acuity and hand dexterity to discern information, complete records and reports, and enter information into computer systems and databases.
• Ability to travel to other locations as needed for outreach to property managers, meetings, events, etc.
• Ability to lift 20 pounds.