Social Service Specialist - Housing Support Services

About La Crosse County

At La Crosse County, we are committed to creating a vibrant, safe, and inclusive community. Guided by our Strategic Plan, we focus on economic growth, environmental stewardship, affordable housing, and robust public services that enhance the quality of life for all residents.

• Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS): A top-rated pension program.
• Affordable Insurance Premiums:
  Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage.
• Generous Paid Time Off:
  Vacation, sick, and 10+ paid holidays annually.
• Work-Life Balance:
  Flexible schedules and wellness programs.

At La Crosse County, we believe that diversity strengthens our community. We are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where all employees feel valued.

FLSA Non-Exempt:
This position exists to help individuals experiencing homelessness or housing instability secure and sustain safe, stable housing through intensive, person-centered housing navigation and tenancy support services. The Social Service Specialist works directly with participants to reduce barriers to housing, identify and secure appropriate units, and provide ongoing support to maintain housing stability.

This role delivers services consistent with the 1915(i) Medicaid Housing Support Services benefit, including housing transition and housing sustaining services. Responsibilities include completing assessments, developing person-centered housing plans, delivering billable services aligned with Medicaid definitions, and maintaining compliant, timely documentation.

The position provides hands-on housing navigation, case management, and coordination for individuals who may also experience mental health concerns, substance use challenges, or barriers related to daily living skills. Success in this role is measured by tangible housing outcomes, including placement into housing, reduced returns to homelessness, and sustained tenancy.

This role is highly collaborative, requiring coordination across La Crosse County Human Services, landlords, property managers, community providers, and homelessness response system partners.

There is a strong preference for candidates who bring lived experience to the role.

• Demonstrate mutual respect, humility, and honesty in all interactions
• Speak up appropriately, even when expressing unpopular viewpoints
• Actively listen and remain open-minded to diverse perspectives

• Set clear goals and objectives to motivate self and others to achieve outcomes
• Seek new opportunities to improve processes and drive sustainable results
• Hold self and others accountable through consistent evaluation and monitoring

• Foster a collaborative environment that encourages knowledge sharing and growth
• Provide mentorship and support to help self and others reach full potential
• Recognize and leverage diverse strengths within self and team

• Understand and communicate a compelling vision that aligns with organizational goals
• Develop and execute comprehensive strategies to achieve long-term objectives
• Connect daily work to the bigger picture, inspiring self and others to contribute meaningfully

• Navigate complex situations by considering multiple perspectives
• Adapt quickly to changes and uncertainties in the work environment
  
  Make critical decisions using analytical skills, experience, and input from others

• Communicate and collaborate effectively with stakeholders across the organization
• Influence others through coaching, consulting, and team-minded thinking
• Develop and sustain partnerships that create positive outcomes for all stakeholders

• Understand and address the needs and concerns of the community
• Incorporate community perspectives into decision-making processes
• Drive initiatives that create positive impacts beyond the organization

• Show self-awareness and manage emotions effectively in challenging situations
• Seek and respond constructively to feedback, even in the face of setbacks
• Balance empathy with accountability when leading self and working with others

Conduct comprehensive intakes and housing-focused assessments to identify barriers to obtaining…