Permanent Housing Navigator in Dover, New Hampshire at Community Action Partnership of Strafford County

Program/Dept: Housing Stability Programs

Reports To: Housing Stability Programs Manager

FLSA Status: Regular/Full-time/Non-Exempt

Probationary Period: Ninety (90) days

Work Schedule: M-F; occasional flexibility required

WFH Status: Eligible for Hybrid with community-based responsibilities

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

The Housing Specialist supports individuals and families experiencing homelessness who are enrolled in Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) in maintaining stable, permanent housing. Working with participants through the BoS Coordinated Entry system, this position provides ongoing housing-focused services that promote housing stability, participant choice, and long-term success in the community.

Using a housing-focused, trauma-informed, and participant-centered approach aligned with Housing First principles, the Housing Specialist partners with participants to maintain housing, address barriers that may impact tenancy, and connect to services and resources that support long-term housing and economic stability.

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE

• Associate’s degree in social work, Human Services, or related field preferred; equivalent relevant experience considered.
• Experience working with individuals or families experiencing homelessness, housing instability, or crises preferred.
• Experience working with individuals or families experiencing chronic homelessness, housing instability, behavioral health needs, or other complex barriers strongly preferred.
• Familiarity with Permanent Supportive Housing, landlord engagement, tenancy supports, or community resource coordination preferred.
• HMIS or comparable database experience is desirable.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Housing Stability & Tenancy Support

• Partner with participants to develop and maintain housing-focused service plans that support long-term housing stability and participant goals.
• Assist participants with maintaining housing and addressing issues that may place their tenancy at risk.
• Support participants with lease requirements, landlord communication, recertifications, inspections, and other ongoing housing responsibilities.
• Coordinate rental assistance and housing-related financial supports in accordance with PSH program and funder guidelines.
• Collaborate with landlords, property managers, and community partners to support successful tenancies and resolve housing-related concerns.

Participant Engagement & Housing Stability

• Provide strength-based, participant-centered support focused on maintaining permanent housing and increasing long-term stability.
• Assist participants in addressing barriers related to income, employment, benefits access, transportation, health and behavioral health needs, or tenancy responsibilities.
• Promote participant choice, self-determination, and dignity throughout service delivery.
• Provide trauma-informed engagement and support that recognizes the impact of homelessness and other life experiences while promoting participant choice, dignity, and self-determination.

Service Coordination & Community Collaboration

• Connect participants to community resources including behavioral health services, healthcare, employment supports, benefits, financial assistance, and other stabilization services.
• Coordinate with Coordinated Entry and Housing Access staff, as appropriate, to support enrollment and transitions into Permanent Supportive Housing.
• Maintain collaborative relationships with landlords, service providers, and community partners.
• Participate in case conferencing and team coordination meetings.

Documentation, Data & Program Accountability

• Maintain accurate and timely participant records and documentation.
• Enter and manage participant data within HMIS and agency databases in accordance with program requirements.
• Ensure compliance with agency policies, confidentiality standards, and funder regulations.
• Support reporting and tracking requirements.

Professional Development & Program Support

• Participate in supervision, training, and team meetings.
• Maintain knowledge of Permanent Supportive Housing requirements, housing resources, and best practices in housing stability and supportive services.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of PSH services, housing retention, and participant outcomes.

GENERAL EXPECTATIONS

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Combination of office-based, remote, and community-based work.
• Local and occasional statewide travel may be required.
• Ability to meet participants in community settings and housing locations.
• Regular interaction with individuals experiencing crises or housing instability.

EMPLOYMENT SCREENING

Valid Driver's License and insured vehicle (100/300 minimum coverage) for use on the job or acceptable alternative, driving record check, criminal record check, randomized drug screening.

Head Start, Early Head Start, Childcare, and Home Visiting Programs are also subject to the following: Head Start and childcare licensing require a criminal record check and fingerprinting to be completed before employment. An initial physical examination record, including a TB screening, must be obtained within 60 days of hire, updated every three years, and kept on file with Human Resources. If a TB screening indicates high risk, results of a TB test must be kept on file, including any treatment received. An initial driving record check will be conducted. License information will also be submitted to the agency’s automobile insurance carrier.

MISSION VISION &VALUES

Mission: To reduce barriers to help clients improve their economic stability and well-being through education, advocacy, and partnerships.

Vision: To eliminate poverty.

Values: Collaboration, Client Focus, Accountability, and Communication.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT: