Housing Specialist

A career at Support Works Housing, Virginia Supportive Housing is a choice. We are here because we are driven to make a difference. We serve our most vulnerable neighbors by removing the barriers that have prevented them from maintaining stable housing, health, and wellness. We meet people where they are and treat them with dignity and respect. We support them through their unique challenges and traumas resulting from homelessness, substance abuse, and mental health issues.

We give them support even when they don't know they need it. We don't give up.

This work can be hard, but the impact is real. If you are committed, caring and resilient and looking to make a difference, a career at Support Works is for you.

You’ll be responsible for the daily execution of housing‑related tasks for program participants in our scattered‑site permanent supportive housing programs. You’ll work closely with the case‑management team in a specific PSH program(s) to ensure that formerly homeless participants secure and maintain affordable, safe, and decent housing in the community.

What You’ll Do

• Complete a thorough housing barrier assessment and housing plan for each program participant
• Assist participants with locating and securing permanent housing
• Act as a liaison between participants, landlords, and case managers
• Communicate with teammates and landlords on a regular basis to monitor progress and address housing needs for each participant
• Conduct an initial intake, housing barrier assessment, and annual/interim re‑certifications as well as initial and annual HQS inspections
• Monitor and facilitate moves/relocation of program participants
• Recalculate rents when necessary due to income change, recertification, or change in rent amount
• Assist with closure/termination of cases when appropriate
• Monitor status of housing stability and collaborate with internal and/or partner agency case managers and landlords
• Act as a resource for internal and/or partner agency case managers to assist participants with locating affordable housing
• Complete required HMIS documentation as required by HUD
• Actively outreach and recruit landlords and provide appropriate information regarding programs

• Bachelor’s degree and professional experience in housing counseling and property management preferred
• One year’s experience working with low‑income and/or homeless adults required
• HQS inspection training/certification within 3 months of hire
• Knowledge of homeless population, resources, and Fair Housing and Tenant‑Landlord laws preferred
• Valid driver’s license and ability to meet Support Works driving requirements is required, ability to travel locally
• Good computer skills, with working knowledge of the primary Microsoft Office programs
• Good human relation skills with a demonstrated ability to deal with landlords, collateral agencies, residents, site personnel, regional support services staff, property managers and owners, inspectors, volunteers, peers, and supervisor
• Detail‑oriented with the ability to plan, prioritize, multi‑task and meet deadlines in a fast‑paced environment

A comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental and vision plans starting after one month of employment. Short‑term/long‑term disability and life insurance at no cost, plus voluntary life insurance. An Employee Assistance Plan (EAP) and a 403(b) retirement plan with a company match. A generous PTO plan including vacation, sick and personal days, and 13 paid holidays!

Support Works conducts pre‑employment drug testing, criminal background and reference checking on all applicants hired.

Salary: $25.96 - $26.44 per hour