Housing and Benefits Specialist

Description

Summary:

The Housing and Benefits Specialist assists individuals in accessing and maintaining affordable housing by navigating various housing programs, benefits, and resources. They work closely with clients to assess their needs, determine eligibility for housing assistance, and provide guidance through application processes.

Organization is a key skill to have as a Housing and Benefits Specialist as most days this role often involves collaboration with housing authorities, community organizations, and social service agencies to ensure clients receive the support they need to achieve housing stability.

This role is ideal for compassionate individuals who are passionate about addressing homelessness, housing insecurity, and supporting community members in achieving safe and stable housing.

Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Essential Responsibilities, include but are not limited to:

• Assess client eligibility for housing assistance programs, including Section 8, public housing, and emergency rental assistance.
• Provide individualized support in completing housing applications, gathering necessary documentation, and addressing any barriers to eligibility.
• Serve as a liaison between clients, landlords, housing authorities, and community partners to advocate for clients’ housing needs.
• Educate clients on their rights, responsibilities, and available resources related to housing.
• Monitor and follow up with clients to ensure ongoing compliance with housing program requirements and address any changes in their circumstances including income verification, recertifications, and lease obligations.
• Maintain detailed client records and ensure compliance with confidentiality and reporting standards.
• Ensure that all services and documentation strictly adhere to IDHS regulations and other applicable housing program policies.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of client interactions, case progress, and outcomes in compliance with IDHS standards.
• Participate in audits and provide necessary documentation to ensure program accountability.
• Stay updated on local, state, and federal housing policies, programs, and changes that may impact clients.
• Conduct outreach to identify and engage individuals in need of housing assistance.
• Provide information to internal departments and external provider agencies as requested to coordinate and assure the appropriateness of services.
• Collaborate with team members to identify gaps in housing resources and recommend improvements to existing programs.
• Stay informed about updates to IDHS policies, as well as changes in local, state, and federal housing regulations.
• Contribute to the development of new initiatives aimed at addressing housing insecurity and expanding client support services
• Demonstrate flexibility and adaptability with changes to program needs and schedule as the need arises.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

No supervisory responsibilities.

OTHER EXPECTATIONS

Employees shall respect the diversity of all individuals (e.g., clients, co-workers, stakeholders) and refrain from any form of discrimination and/or based upon a person’s legally protected characteristics or conduct, including but not limited to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, and gender identity or expression.

Employees share the responsibility of creating and maintaining a welcoming, supportive, and inclusive work environment.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and/or skills required of all employees so classified.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, physical requirements may include standing, walking, and sitting; seeing; hearing and listening; clear speech; dexterity and use of hands and fingers.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work environment described here is representative of that an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.

The noise level in the work environment is usually low to moderate. The work environment may include any or all of the following: working alone; working with others, verbal contact with others and face-to-face contact.

Requirements

QUALIFICATIONS

To perform this job successfully an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required.

EDUCATION, SKILLS, and/or EXPERIENCE

• Must have a bachelor’s degree in counseling, psychology, social work, CRSS, or related field. Masters Preferred (on track for licensure as LSW, LPC, LCSW, LCPC)
• Valid Driver’s License with reliable transportation. This role requires driving to various rental properties and engaging with clients in the community. Must also be comfortable with transporting individuals in their own car if needed to required appointments.
• Experience with substance use and diverse populations such as homelessness and serious mental illness preferred.
• 2-3 years’ experience working within social service field is recommended.
• Experience with Grant-Funded programs and Medicaid billing is preferred
• Familiarity with local housing authorities and nonprofit organizations.
• Proficiency in Spanish language at a professional level preferred.
• Must have strong verbal and written communication skills; as this position requires face-to-face and telephone interaction with various levels of management, clients, and outside agencies.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Excel and Office
• Strong ethical standards and ability to maintain client confidentiality.
• Strong organizational and multitasking abilities.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Must be flexible in schedule, as this role may require evenings and weekends