Housing Specialist (NMHC) (53083)

Position Description

Title: Housing Specialist (NMHC)                                         Reports To: Program Coordinator

Hours: Full-Time                                                                     FLSA Status: Non-Exempt (Hourly)

Supervises: None                                                                    OSHA Exposure Category: II

Position Summary

The Housing Specialist serves as the primary direct-service staff for the HOME-ARP Homelessness Prevention Program. This position assists eligible individuals and families in obtaining and maintaining safe, stable, and affordable housing through housing navigation, housing stabilization, and supportive service coordination. The Housing Specialist conducts outreach, assesses participant needs, facilitates access to housing resources, and provides ongoing support to promote long-term housing stability. Services are provided throughout the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI), and travel may be required to support program operations and participant needs.

Essential Job Functions

- Conduct outreach, intake, screening, and eligibility determination activities.

- Assist participants in obtaining and maintaining safe, stable, and affordable housing.

- Develop and implement housing stabilization plans designed to support long-term housing retention.

- Coordinate housing search activities, landlord engagement, housing applications, and lease-up processes.

- Assist participants in accessing rental assistance, utility assistance, and other eligible housing-related supports.

- Provide housing navigation, advocacy, and supportive service coordination.

- Conduct home visits, field-based services, and participant follow-up activities as needed.

- Establish and maintain collaborative relationships with landlords, housing providers, community partners, and resource agencies.

- Collect, review, and maintain required participant documentation and records.

- Maintain accurate and timely case notes, program records, and data entry in agency databases and reporting systems.

- Participate in case staffing meetings, training, and other program-related activities.

- Maintain confidentiality and safeguard participant information in accordance with agency and funder requirements.

- Travel as needed to support program operations, outreach activities, participant services, and community partnerships throughout the CNMI.

- Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

- Associate degree in Human Services, Social Work, Psychology, Sociology, or a related field preferred.

- Minimum of one (1) year of experience in housing services, case management, supportive services, social services, or a related field.

- Valid driver's license, reliable transportation, and the ability to meet agency driving requirements, including maintaining an acceptable driving record.

- Ability to travel as required.

- Experience providing direct services to individuals and families preferred.

- Experience working with individuals and families experiencing homelessness, housing instability, or other barriers to self-sufficiency preferred.

Experience and Competencies

- Knowledge of housing resources, community services, and client-centered service delivery.

- Strong interpersonal, communication, and problem-solving skills.

- Ability to establish rapport and work effectively with diverse populations.

- Ability to maintain accurate records, documentation, and case files.

- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and electronic data management systems.

- Ability to work independently in office, community, and field settings.

- Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound professional judgment.