Housing Specialist

HOUSING NAVIGATION SPECIALISTLocation: On-site – Lake Elsinore, CASchedule: Full-Time (Hours may vary; evenings and weekends, as needed)Compensation: $28.00 - 32.00 per hour (depending on experience)Reports To: Program ManagerPosition SummaryThe Housing Navigation Specialist supports justice-involved participants in securing safe and stable housing by providing direct navigation, education, and advocacy throughout the housing process. This role requires extensive knowledge of Section 8, housing vouchers, landlord engagement, and community-based housing programs. The Housing Navigation Specialist establishes and maintains relationships with property owners, housing authorities, and organizations that specialize in justice-involved reentry housing. This work aligns with the mission of The Happier Life Project and the metrics-driven requirements of the Adult Reentry Grant (ARG). The Housing Specialist delivers person-centered, trauma-responsive services, including the use of Motivational Interviewing techniques to help individuals explore their readiness for change in a supportive and nonjudgmental way.Key ResponsibilitiesParticipant EngagementConduct housing assessments to identify participant needs, housing history, barriers, and eligibility for housing programsProvide person-centered support in locating safe, stable housing optionsAssist participants with housing applications, appeals, unit searches, and the voucher processOffer education on tenant rights, responsibilities, budgeting basics, and housingreadiness.Facilitate groups, workshops, or classes related to housing readiness as assignedHousing Navigation and CoordinationSupport participants with completing Section 8 and other housing voucher applicationsMaintain up-to-date knowledge of eligibility requirements for local housing programsCoordinate with housing authorities, property management companies, reentry housing providers, and community partnersAccompany participants to appointments, housing tours, and lease signings as neededFacilitate communication between tenants and landlords to support housing stabilityLandlord Engagement and Relationship BuildingIdentify and recruit landlords willing to rent to justice-involved participantsEstablish and maintain strong, ongoing relationships with property owners and management agenciesProvide landlords with information about available incentives, support services, and program expectationsServe as a professional point of contact for conflict resolution and follow upTracking and DocumentationDocument all housing contacts, applications, referrals, and progress notes in the EHR systemEnsure all documentation follows BSCC and THLP standards, including PIP formattingTrack outcomes such as housing obtained, retention, barriers, and participant progressComplete required logs, reports, and updates by assigned deadlinesPartnership DevelopmentIdentify and cultivate partnerships with organizations and providers that specialize in reentry housing, transitional housing, sober living, and community support programsCollaborate with partner agencies to coordinate placements, wraparound services, and long-term stability supportAttend housing-related meetings, community events, workshops, and trainings that strengthen program capacityProgram ResponsibilitiesParticipate in case conferencing, team meetings, and supervisionAttend outreach events, resource fairs, and partner activities as assignedProvide education and support to team members on housing-related topicsSupport the Program Manager and Lead Integrated Care Navigator with housing-related data, updates, and problem-solvingOther duties as assignedRequired QualificationsMinimum two years of experience providing housing navigation, outreach, case management, or related reentry or homelessness servicesStrong understanding of Section 8, housing vouchers, rapid rehousing programs, and landlord engagement strategiesExperience building and maintaining relationships with property owners and housing partnersStrong communication skills and ability to advocate effectively for participantsKnowledge of local housing resources, community agencies, and justice-involved reentry supportsExperience with electronic documentation and data entryValid California driver’s license, reliable transportation, and proof of insuranceAbility to work in person with some flexibility for evenings or weekendsPreferred QualificationsAssociate degree or higher in human services, sociology, psychology, or a relatedfield.Bilingual English and SpanishLived experience with housing instability, justice involvement, or reentryFamiliarity with Medi-Cal, SDOH tools, and evidence-based case management practicesWork EnvironmentThis is an in-person role based at the THLP office, housing authority offices, property locations, and community partner sites. The Housing Navigator must be available to support participants in both office and field settings.Powered by JazzHR9ZJVgADUtB