Housing Specialist

About MHA

MHA – Mental Health Association is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping people live their best life. We provide a wide range of services across Western Massachusetts, including outpatient therapy, substance use recovery, supports for individuals with developmental disabilities or brain injuries, and residential and housing programs. MHA serves individuals impacted by mental illness, substance use, developmental disabilities, brain injuries, and homelessness. Our mission is rooted in inclusion, dignity, and empowering people to lead fulfilling, independent lives.

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Position Summary

The Housing and Safety Specialist is responsible for ensuring that apartments meet all relevant codes and standards established by the Mental Health Association (MHA), HUD, DMH, and other regulatory bodies. This includes conducting inspections, maintaining documentation, and ensuring participants live in safe, quality housing.

Pay Rate: $20 an hour

Schedule: Monday through Friday 9am-5pm

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct Housing Quality Standards (HQS) inspections at lease-up, move-out, bi-annually, and as needed; maintain accurate inspection records and photos.
• Ensure units comply with sanitary codes and DMH licensing standards; facilitate licensing inspections and follow up on corrective actions.
• Identify repair needs, communicate with landlords, and ensure timely completion of required maintenance.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with landlords, property managers, and housing providers; assist in sourcing new units for agency participants.
• Provide tenancy support and basic mediation in collaboration with case managers; foster respectful relationships with participants.
• Maintain organized housing files, databases, and a landlord directory; manage key inventory for participant units.
• Perform minor non-strenuous repairs (e.g., changing lightbulbs) when applicable.
• Attend team meetings and contribute to housing utilization and participant care planning efforts.

Equal Opportunity Statement

The Mental Health Association is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

• High School Diploma or equivalent is required
• Valid driver’s license and reliable vehicle
• Ability to work independently and in teams and to manage time effectively
• Strong organizational skills and proficiency in using technology including email, data entry in Excel, etc.
• Strong relationship-building skills
• Must be at least 21 years old
• At least 3 months of experience in housing assistance
• Certification in HCV Housing Quality Standards or ability to obtain within two months

• Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
• Retirement Plan (403B, IRA)
• Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
• Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)
• Long Term Disability
• $20 an hour