About this opportunity
Acacia Network lists this Housing Specialist opportunity in buffalo, New York. Review the employer’s description below for duties, qualifications and application requirements.
Job description
Regular Full-Time
nBuffalo, NY, US
nSalary Range: $23.76 To $23.76 Hourly
nMISSION STATEMENT
nAre you ready to give back to the community while pursuing your passion? For over 50 years, Acacia Network and its affiliates have been committed to improving the quality-of-life and wellbeing of underserved communities in New York City and beyond. We are one of the leading human services organizations in New York City and the largest Hispanic-led nonprofit in the State, serving over 150,000 individuals every year. Our programs serve individuals at every age and developmental level, from the very young through our daycare programs to mature adults through our older adults centers. Our extensive array of community-based services are fully integrated, bilingual and culturally competent.
nPOSITION OVERVIEW
nThe MRT Housing Specialist assists Medicaid-eligible individuals with securing, maintaining, and transitioning to safe, stable, and affordable housing. The role focuses on housing navigation, landlord engagement, documentation compliance, and coordination of housing services in accordance with Department of Health (DOH) regulations, HUD guidelines (when applicable), and agency policies. The Housing Specialist works closely with Case Managers and community partners to promote long-term housing stability and client independence. Address: 254 Virginia St | Buffalo, New York 14201
nKEY ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
nnnIn collaboration with the Program Supervisor the HS Conducts initial screenings and intakes to confirm program eligibility.
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nnCollect required identification, Medicaid verification, and consent forms.
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nnComplete required Housing assessments documentation and risk assessments within required timelines.
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nnExplain program rights, responsibilities, safety plans and grievance procedures to participants as needed.
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nnConduct housing needs assessments and identify barriers to stability.
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nnContribute to the Participants Individualized Service Plan (ISP) with housing-related SMART goals.
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nnEvaluate eligibility for supportive housing programs, subsidies, or rental assistance/Section 8.
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nnReassess housing status at required intervals or when life events occur
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nnAssist participants with housing applications, waitlists, and documentation packets.
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nnIdentify available units through property managers, housing authorities, and community listings.
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nnCoordinate apartment viewings, inspections, and lease signings.
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nnSupport move-in logistics, including utilities setup, Groceries and basic furnishing referrals.
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nnRequest Subsidy payment for Security deposit, first month rent, Groceries and furniture to bookkeeping for initial intake process.
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nnDevelop and maintain relationships with landlords, brokers, and property management companies.
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nnMediate tenant–landlord issues to prevent evictions.
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nnAdvocate for reasonable accommodations and fair housing practices.
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nnTrack landlord contacts and unit availability and provide database to supervisor.
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nnEducating the landlord about our Intent to Rent, Landlord Voucher, and W-9 forms, payment timelines, and responsibilities in case participants become non-compliant with their contractual obligations.
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nnConduct annual apartment Inspections and per landlord request.
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nnMaintain accurate, timely, and audit-ready records in the electronic housing database.
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nnComplete housing progress notes, placement records, and verification of residence forms.
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nnEnsure documentation meets DOH and HUD standards.
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nnParticipate in internal and external audits or site reviews.
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nnProvide education on tenant rights, lease compliance, and budgeting for rent/utilities.
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nnIdentify early warning signs of housing loss and intervene promptly.
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nnCoordinate with Case Managers to address barriers such as income gaps, benefits issues, or behavioral health needs.
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nnDevelop eviction-prevention and safety plans when necessary
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nnLink participants to financial assistance programs, rental subsidies, and emergency funds.
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nnCollaborate with agencies providing Included but not limited to Employment and vocational services, Food and utility assistance, Independent Living Skills Training
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nnTrack housing referral outcomes and Participant follow-through and report to the supervisor.
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nnMonthly Rent subsidy request to the bookkeeping
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nnAttend multidisciplinary team meetings and supervision sessions.
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nnCommunicate housing updates to Case Managers, Supervisors, and external partners.
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nnParticipate in DOH training and policy update briefings.
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nnSupport agency housing initiatives and data collection efforts
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n nREQUIREMENTS
nnnHighschool Diploma or GED required
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nnAssociate’s degree preferred
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nnMinimum of (2) two years of experience in Housing Program
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nnMust obtain Mandated reporter (2 hours) training/certificate within 30 days of hire.
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nnWebsite info:
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nnHQSI Certification preferred, but not necessary.
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nnBasic Social work experience preferred.
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nnStrong leadership, excellent organizational and communication skills
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nnAbility to work on a strong team of professionals in a culturally diverse environment.
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nnAbility to multitask and to work and function under pressure.
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n nWHY JOIN US?
nAcacia Network provides a comprehensive and competitive benefits package to our employees. In addition to a competitive salary, our benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage. We also offer generous paid time off, including vacation days and paid holidays, to support a healthy work-life balance. We prioritize the well-being of our employees both professionally and personally.
nAs an Equal Opportunity Employer, we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply.
Worksite address
buffalo, NY, 14266, US
Who can apply
Review the original listing for work authorization, qualifications and employer requirements.