Housing Specialist

Location:

Portland, OR Exit Disclaimer: You Are Leaving www.ihs.gov

Type: Urban Salary Range: $26 to $36 / Per Hour Open Period: 10/23/2026 until filled Summary: The PSH Specialist works independently and collaboratively with multiple NARA NW teams and other agencies to provide housing placement and stabilization services to Elders age 50 and older who are homeless and whose health, behavioral health, and socioeconomic issues have prevented them from accessing housing. Services are focused around supporting the Elder to obtain and stabilize housing, end their experience with homelessness, and improve their health and move forward in their recovery. Duties: - Complete screening and intake processes with Elder households referred to the Elders'' RLRA Program. - Assess the housing stabilization needs for each participating household and develop a client-led housing service plan with each household. - Assist program participants through the housing process including identifying an apartment/home, addressing possible barriers to housing approval, accessing funding for move in costs, and obtaining furnishings for their home. - Complete program specific paperwork with participant to assist with housing stability. - Develop positive relationships with collaborative partners, external providers, and property managers. - Be responsive to property managers as concerns arise in order to support participants in successfully stabilizing in their housing and preventing eviction. Follow up with property managers to determine outcome of any needed interventions. - Work in close coordination with other providers/ support systems to address the needs of participants and facilitate engagement in clinical services to address medical and behavioral health needs. - Provide home and community based engagement services to clients utilizing strengths-based case management while embracing the philosophy of Motivational Interviewing and Housing First. Utilize assertive engagement techniques to meet clients where they are willing to participate and coach clients in setting goals and identifying realistic steps in order to achieve them. - Consistently use strong professional judgment while providing services to participants; including taking appropriate safety precautions while transporting participants and providing services to participants in the community/homes. - Demonstrate responsibility for safety of participants and property. Must be familiar with fire and building regulations and evacuation procedures. - Provide ongoing assessment of needs and risk of harm for each individual and respond appropriately. - Provide outreach services as needed to maintain effective engagement in services. Complete housing-related documentation as required. - Meet regularly with clinical supervisor for supervision and seek supervision, as needed. Qualifications: - QMHA credential required. If not currently credentialed, must be able to obtain QMHA credential within 6 months of hire. - Requires a high school diploma, GED or equivalent. - Professional experience working with Elders experiencing homelessness or experiencing severe and persistent mental illness. - Experience creating service plans, progress notes, and other documentation. - Knowledge of housing resources and programs. - Knowledge and understanding of recovery-based, holistic approaches to addressing behavioral health needs. - Ability to engage and interact positively with individuals and families to promote strengths and improve health and well-being. - Excellent communication skills and initiative to effectively coordinate care. - Ability to work collaboratively with clients, other NARA NW staff, and team members, and to treat everyone with respect and dignity at all times. - Access to reliable transportation, current driver''s license with a clean driving record, and proof of auto insurance. - Ability to pass a pre-employment or for cause drug tests. - Ability to pass criminal background and DMV checks. Work Type: Permanent, Full Who May Apply? US Citizens Get Details & Apply: https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/portal/EA72704778F72D2D4728EEA7608BC7B0/jobs/492474?jpt= Exit Disclaimer: You Are Leaving www.ihs.gov