Resident Services Specialist at Grand Rapids Housing Commission – Grand Rapids, Michigan

About the Role:

The Resident Services Specialist plays a pivotal role in enhancing the quality of life for residents by providing comprehensive support and resources tailored to their needs. This position focuses on building strong relationships within the community, facilitating access to social services, and coordinating programs that promote resident well-being and engagement. The Specialist acts as a liaison between residents and management, ensuring effective communication and resolution of concerns. By identifying and addressing barriers to housing stability, the role contributes to fostering a safe, supportive, and inclusive living environment. Ultimately, the Resident Services Specialist helps empower residents to achieve greater self-sufficiency and satisfaction within the CPA community.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in social work, human services, or psychology + 4 years of experience in resident services, social work, community outreach, or a related area. An equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to fulfill essential position functions may be considered.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to engage diverse populations.
• High computer proficiency, including experience with Microsoft Office and database management.
• Ability to handle sensitive information with confidentiality and professionalism.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working in affordable housing or property management environments.
• Familiarity with local social service agencies and community resources.
• Bilingual abilities, particularly in Spanish or other languages relevant to the resident population.
• Certification in case management or related fields.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and maintain positive relationships with residents to understand their needs and provide appropriate support.
• Coordinate and facilitate access to social services, community resources, and educational programs.
• Assist residents in navigating housing-related issues, including lease compliance and conflict resolution.
• Organize and promote community-building activities and events to enhance resident engagement and cohesion.
• Maintain accurate records of resident interactions, service referrals, and program participation.
• Collaborate with property management and external agencies to address resident concerns and improve service delivery.
• Conduct needs assessments and follow-up to ensure residents receive timely and effective assistance.

Skills:

The Resident Services Specialist utilizes strong communication and interpersonal skills daily to build trust and rapport with residents from diverse backgrounds. Problem-solving and conflict resolution skills are essential for addressing resident concerns and facilitating positive outcomes. Organizational skills are applied to manage multiple cases, maintain detailed records, and coordinate community programs effectively. Proficiency with computer applications supports data entry, reporting, and communication tasks. Additionally, cultural competency and empathy enable the Specialist to provide respectful and tailored support that meets the unique needs of each resident.