Housing Specialist

Jewish Family Service • Buffalo, NY

11d • $22 - $28

About The Position

The Housing Specialist will work closely with clients experiencing homelessness or housing instability, landlords, and service providers to identify housing opportunities, negotiate lease agreements, and provide ongoing support to promote long-term housing stability.

Requirements

• Minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in a human services, public administration of other related field.
• 1–2 years of experience in housing services, case management, homelessness prevention, or refugee resettlement.
• Strong interpersonal, advocacy, and negotiation skills.
• Ability to manage a caseload and work independently as well as collaboratively.
• Knowledge of local housing market conditions and tenant-landlord laws.
• Cross-cultural communication competence and sensitivity.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel) and client tracking systems (e.g., HMIS, BIN).
• Must have access to a reliable vehicle, possess a valid, clean NYS driver’s license and be sufficiently self-insured with liability insurance in the amount of $100,000/$300,000.

Nice To Haves

• Familiarity with Rapid Rehousing, HUD-funded programs, or coordinated entry systems is strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Conduct housing assessments and develop individualized housing plans with clients experiencing homelessness or imminent risk of homelessness.
• Identify, inspect and secure appropriate housing units that meet clients’ needs and program guidelines.
• Build and maintain relationships with landlords and property managers to expand housing opportunities.
• Assist clients with rental applications, housing search, inspections, lease negotiations, and move-in coordination.
• Provide housing stabilization support, including budgeting assistance, tenant education, and conflict resolution between clients and landlords.
• Coordinate financial assistance for rent, security deposits, and utility arrears in alignment with program policy.
• Coordinate with shelter staff and outreach teams to identify eligible participants and ensure smooth transitions to permanent housing.
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation in client records and data systems (ex. HMIS, BIN, etc.)
• Monitor client progress and offer referrals to supportive services as needed.
• Collaborate with refugee resettlement case managers to identify and secure stable housing for clients at risk of homelessness or unsafe housing conditions.
• Assist in navigating local housing programs, including public housing or other subsidies, as appropriate.
• Identify opportunities for clients to receive support in other housing or support programs within agency.

Benefits

• Benefits such as health, dental, and vision insurance, accrued Paid Time Off (PTO) of 4+ weeks, 401k retirement plan with company match, and 13+ observed holidays.
• Reduced full-time work week of 35 hours and early close on Fridays.
• A supportive and collaborative work environment.
• The chance to make meaningful impact in a dynamic and forward-thinking organization.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level