Resident Support Specialist

Resident Support Specialist

Location:

In Office (St. Johnsbury, Vermont)

Employment Type:

Full-time

Salary: $19 - $21 / hr

The Resident Support Specialist is responsible for assessing resident needs, developing and/or identifying programming to meet those needs, holding resident meetings and operating Rural Edge's Eviction Prevention Program in the Rural Edge portfolio. The ability to effectively coordinate services for residents directly impacts Rural Edge's mission statement to strengthen Northeast Kingdom communities, one home at a time.

• Community Needs Assessments: surveys the resident population annually to identify priority needs and track changes in needs over time; compile a presentation on survey results, identifying trends and areas of focus for resident services.
• Community Meetings: conduct community meetings on a regular basis with Property Management at targeted properties, establishing and maintaining lines of communication between residents and the property staff; compile reports and address areas of action before the next community meeting.
• Eviction Prevention: contact residents when a lease violation occurs to address issues before they become a cause for eviction, offering community supports; create action plans with residents to remain in their housing and address issues; act as a mediator between Property Management and residents when issues elevate to a cause for eviction.
• Community Building & Engagement: assist in activities that promote resident leadership, organization and facilitation of community gardens, organization, preparation, and execution of community building events.
• Other Responsibilities:
  
  establish and maintain partnerships with relevant organizations and individuals, with an emphasis on providing on-site services to residents and the community; implement priority programs and essential activities through partnerships with other community-based service providers/organizations; report child, dependent adult and elder abuse and neglect according to Vermont State law; obtain appropriate releases to interact with others on behalf of the resident; maintain confidentiality appropriately;
  
  develop and maintain a comprehensive list of available community resources; attend all staff meetings, training sessions, and other appropriate meetings and conferences as required; other tasks as assigned by Director of Community Development.

• High School Diploma required. College credits or a degree in a Human Services field preferred.
• Training or experience working with diverse cultures and specific populations, depending on the property; experience with populations such as children and families, seniors, people with developmental disabilities and/or chronic mental illness preferred.
• Experience conducting community assessments, applying the principles of conflict management and/or de-escalation techniques, and organizing community groups, events and programs preferred.
• Knowledge of services available in Northeast Kingdom counties preferred.
• Ability to develop effective working partnerships with various types of community groups and institutions.
• Function effectively in an environment with multiple perspectives and competing needs.
• Demonstrate a commitment to recognizing residents' knowledge and experience as a valuable resource.
• Motivate individuals to actively participate in services.
• Ability to effectively facilitate meetings and community gatherings.
• Proficient with computer software and smartphone technology.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to work some evenings and weekends, as needed.
• Demonstrated ability to establish trusting, confidential relationships.

• Excellent organizational skills and detailed work habits.
• Must communicate efficiently and respectfully.
• Must be able to lift/push up to 25 pounds.
• Must be adaptable to working in an ever-changing, high-pressure work environment.
• Willingness to travel for training opportunities and property work.
• Valid driver's license, a good driving record and proof of automobile insurance is required. Use of own vehicle is required.