HOUSING SPECIALIST

Hourly rate commensurate with experience. 

Hybrid: 4 days in office/1 day remote

Join UP! We are lighting the path home, one person at a time.

About Urban Pathways

Since 1975, Urban Pathways has engaged New York City’s most vulnerable residents, people on the streets or in areas unfit for human habitation, “lighting the path home, one person at a time.” Urban Pathways is a catalyst for transformative change in the lives of unhoused adults, empowering them to discover their inherent strengths and abilities. We provide essential support and foster an environment where individuals can redefine their narratives and become their best selves.

Responsibilities 

Reporting to the Director of Social Services/Social Services Supervisor, the Housing Specialist provides assistance and support to achieve permanent housing placement for all clients.  He/she also provides and documents clinical case management services for assigned clients according to the requirements of Urban Pathways and all regulatory and funding agencies. 

• Assesses clients needs and develops and implements service plans for appropriate housing placement and support including, but not limited to: supportive housing, independent housing, family reunification, Federal, State, and City housing subsidies, and referrals. 
• Advocates on behalf of clients to facilitate client needs. 
• Conducts regularly scheduled housing meetings with clients and staff to ensure housing packages are updated and to explore housing options. 
• Ensures timely preparation and delivery of housing packages for housing providers and coordinates housing interviews. 
• Prepares clients for the housing interviewing process and assists clients to obtain required entitlements and identification. 
• Collaborates with housing providers and DHS/OMH on appropriate housing placements for clients. 
• Assists clients to ensure a smooth transition from shelter into the community and provides appropriate community resources. 
• Serves as liaison with community to build and enhance housing network. 
• Prepares and submits monthly housing reports and all necessary documents and reports as required by Urban Pathways, regulatory and funding agency policies, procedures, and regulations.    
• Attends staff meetings, trainings, and supervisory sessions, as required.     
• Performs all other duties as assigned. 

Qualifications 

• Bachelor’s degree required. Master’s degree in social work or other related field preferred. 
• Minimum of two years of clinical individual or group counseling experience preferred.  
• Experience with NYC housing subsidies and programs required. 
• Experience with homeless, person living with a mental health condition and substance abuse population preferred. 
• Strong computer skills and advanced knowledge of Microsoft office (e.g. Word, Outlook, Excel, etc.) 
• Strong written and verbal communication skills. Foreign languages a plus. 

Urban Pathways offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support the well-being and professional growth of our employees. 

These benefits include:

• Healthcare Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision insurance plans to keep you and your family in good health.
• Retirement Savings: A 403(b) plan and a 401(a) with employer annual contribution to help you plan for a secure financial future.
• Paid Time Off: Generous paid time off, including vacation, holidays, and personal days.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for continuous learning and professional development to enhance your skills and advance your career.
• Flexible Work Arrangements: Work-life balance is important to us, and we offer flexible work arrangements to accommodate your needs.
• Wellness Programs: Employee wellness programs, including fitness initiatives and mental health support.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential counseling and support services for personal or work-related issues.
• Employee Recognition: Recognition programs to celebrate and reward outstanding contributions.