Job Title: Housing Specialist (HS)
Employment Type: Full-Time ($43,000-$45,000 annually) depending on education and experience
Location: Throughout Hillsborough County
Language Requirement: Bilingual (English and Spanish)
Organizational Overview:Established in 1992, the Hispanic Services Council (HSC) is a private, nonprofit organization dedicated to increasing access and opportunities for Latinos and influencing the systems that serve them. HSC works to build an educated, healthy, prosperous, and engaged Latino community through programs focused on academic achievement, healthy lifestyles, and civic engagement.
Job Summary:Under the supervision of the La Red de Padres Activos Program Director, the Housing Specialist (HS) provides housing expertise and support low-income families specially Latinos with limited English proficiency in Hillsborough County. The HS assesses client eligibility, identifies housing needs, and assists participants in securing stable housing while addressing barriers that may lead to homelessness.
Key Responsibilities:
Assess client eligibility for housing assistance programs and determine service needs.
Review and verify required supporting documentation; identify and resolve documentation issues within established timeframes.
Assist clients in searching for available housing and negotiating lease terms with property owners.
Collaborate with government agencies, community organizations, and landlords to expand housing opportunities and reduce barriers.
Provide referrals and information regarding social services, including access to funder’s Administrative Service Organization (ASO) funds.
Develop individualized family support plans that promote permanent housing and self-sufficiency.
Conduct home visits and office appointments to provide accessible, client-centered services.
Maintain accurate client records by entering and managing data in the funder’s database (CATS); analyze client feedback, satisfaction surveys, and program outcomes.
Serve a minimum of 150 parents annually, including at least 75 participants in La Red de Padres Activos.
Program and Case Management Duties:
Confirm provider eligibility within the ASO system or facilitate new housing provider enrollment (including W-9 completion).
Request ASO funds, coordinate inspections, and maintain communication with the Children’s Board.
Submit payment authorizations and coordinate pick-up and delivery of rental assistance checks.
Finalize cases and ensure proper documentation in both physical files and database systems.
Supervision, Teamwork, and Continuous Improvement:
Provide supervision, guidance, and ongoing support to the Housing Assistant, ensuring quality, workflow efficiency and consistency in service delivery and case management.
Conduct continuous analysis of internal processes to identify opportunities for increased efficiency and enhanced service delivery to participants.
Prepare and submit quarterly reports to the Program Director, including performance metrics, outcomes, and recommendations.
Participate in monthly La Red de Padres Activos meetings and maintain consistent communication with program coordinators and Team Leads to ensure alignment and coordination of services.
Community Engagement and Collaboration:
Meet with landlords, property managers, and partner organizations as needed.
Conduct outreach and participate in community workshops to educate families on housing-related topics (e.g., eviction notices, legal processes, tenant rights).
Professional Development:
Complete at least one professional training per quarter to enhance knowledge and service delivery.
Professional Education, Desired Knowledge, Skills, and Experience:
Bilingual f(English and Spanish)
Bachelor’s degree or equivalent and/or five (5) or more years of experience working with underserved communities.
Experience in housing-related matters, including rental, purchasing, sales, and general housing laws and regulations.
Experience in public speaking, facilitating workshops, and leading meetings with diverse populations in a variety of settings (virtual, in-person, community-based, etc.).
Experience with staff supervision and budget management.
Possess strong organizational, data analysis, problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and ability to quickly learn virtual platforms such as Zoom and Microsoft Teams.
Ability to maintain strict confidentiality of sensitive information.
Self-motivated, with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively with minimal supervision.
Other:
Have reliable transportation, a valid driver’s license, and auto insurance.
Able to have a flexible schedule, including availability for evenings and weekends as needed.
Ability to pass a Level II background check.
Ability to lift and transport up to 25 pounds (12 kg).
Additional Information: This position is grant-funded, and hours may be reduced or eliminated based on funding availability.
Please send your cover letter and resume to maria.garavito@hispanicservicescouncil.org. Not Phone calls please.