Housing Support Specialist

Purpose and Summary

The goal of the Housing Support Specialist (HSS) is to support resident housing stability and success for tenants in Permanent Supportive Housing units. The HSS will provide wraparound services including case management, eviction prevention, resource referrals, community building, and basic living skills. The HSS will coordinate with third party property managers, other service providers, and community partners to provide residents with the tools necessary to keep them healthy and stably housed.

Service Responsibilities:

• Assertively engage with and identify service needs of residents; support them in meeting those needs
• Support residents in their re-entry, recovery, and ability to maintain successful, permanent housing
• Provide case management to PSH households; help them develop plans and goals around housing, employment, independent living, and overall health
• Help residents access social services, community resources, higher education, employment support, etc.
• Plan, publicize and facilitate on-site community-building events and activities
• Maintain complete case files, enter data into HMIS, and report successes and challenges of the PSH program.
• Participate with IHI’s PSH team, the Joint Office of Homeless Services, and attend PSH provider meetings

We are looking for a creative, dedicated individual with the following skills/abilities/experience:

• Cultural proficiency in working with diverse populations and low-income individuals
• Experience working with individuals that have experienced high levels of trauma
• Experience working with people who have experienced homelessness and an understanding of the Coordinated Access system in Portland
• Experience working with people who have a history of substance abuse
• Comfort and experience working with people managing mental health challenges
• Assertive engagement skills
• Knowledge of Trauma Informed Care
• Possesses strong organizational and interpersonal communication skills
• Skills in working as a member of a diverse team
• Must pass criminal background check
• Has a valid driver’s license, good driving record, and insured personal vehicle
• Has the ability to lift 50 lbs. and is comfortable moving heavy objects

Innovative Housing, Inc. (IHI) is a nonprofit housing provider that has served low-income households in the Portland metro region since 1984. We are a small, efficient team of mission-driven individuals doing great things.IHI’s residents represent many different communities and lived experiences and we strive to have our staff reflect this diversity. People of color are strongly encouraged to apply for this position. Read more about us at www.innovativehousinginc.com.

Medical, Vision & Dental Insurance, Employer Matched 403(b) Pension, Paid Time Off (this includes both vacation and sick leave), Personal Holidays, and Long Term Disability