Housing Specialist

Cherokee Federal
401(k)
United States, New York, Manhattan
Aug 19, 2025
The Housing Specialist is responsible for supporting shelter residents in securing and maintaining stable housing through comprehensive assessment, planning, and placement services. This role involves developing individualized housing plans, assisting clients in navigating NYC's housing voucher systems, coordinating housing searches, and maintaining strong partnerships with landlords and housing providers. The Housing Specialist works closely with case managers, DHS staff, and community organizations to ensure timely placements in compliance with all regulatory guidelines. The ideal candidate has experience in housing placement or case management, strong organizational and interpersonal skills, and a solid understanding of NYC's rental assistance programs and tenant rights. Compensation & Benefits: Estimated Starting Salary Range for Housing Specialist : $26 hourly Pay commensurate with experience. Full time benefits include Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K, and other possible benefits as provided. Benefits are subject to change with or without notice. Housing Specialist Responsibilities Include: Conduct thorough housing needs assessments for assigned shelter residents within DHS-mandated timelines. Develop individualized housing plans in coordination with case managers and clients, identifying barriers to housing stability and strategies to address them. Assist clients with gathering required documentation for housing applications, subsidies, and benefit programs. Identify and maintain a network of landlords, brokers, and housing providers willing to work with DHS clients. Coordinate housing search activities, including property viewings, application submissions, and lease signings. Provide clients with education on tenant rights, lease obligations, and maintaining housing stability. Utilize knowledge of NYC housing voucher systems to expedite placements and ensure clients maximize eligibility for subsidies. Maintain detailed case records in DHS-approved systems (e.g., CARES) and update files in compliance with DHS and shelter policies. Collaborate with DHS staff, shelter case management teams, and community-based organizations to ensure a coordinated approach to housing placement. Ensure all housing placements comply with Fair Housing laws, NYC/DHS regulations, and specific requirements of housing voucher programs. Advocate on behalf of clients with landlords, brokers, and agencies to facilitate successful placements. Provide crisis intervention and problem-solving support to clients facing potential housing loss. Offer post-placement follow-up support to help clients maintain stable housing, with attention to the needs of special populations requiring ongoing assistance. Housing Specialist Experience, Education, Skills, Abilities requested: Required: Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Human Services, Urban Studies, or related field OR equivalent combination of education and experience. Minimum 2 years' experience in housing placement, case management, or related work with homeless populations. Familiarity with NYC housing voucher programs and systems, including CityFHEPS, Section 8, and other rental assistance programs. Strong interpersonal skills and cultural competency to work with diverse populations. Excellent organizational and time management abilities. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and case management databases. Preferred: Experience working in a DHS shelter or similar NYC social services setting. Bilingual skills (Spanish, Mandarin, or other languages commonly spoken in NYC). Knowledge of landlord-tenant law and fair housing regulations. Company Information: Cherokee Nation Management & Consulting (CNMC) is a part of Cherokee Federal - the division of tribally owned federal contracting companies owned by Cherokee Nation Businesses. As a trusted partner for more than 60 federal clients, Cherokee Federal LLCs are focused on building a brighter future, solving complex challenges, and serving the government's mission with compassion and heart. To learn more about CNMC , visit cherokee-federal.com. #CherokeeFederal #LI-AP1 Cherokee Federal is a military friendly employer. Veterans and active military transitioning to civilian status are encouraged to apply. Similar searchable job titles: Housing Placement Specialist Housing Navigator Housing Coordinator Housing Resource Specialist Housing Case Manager Keywords: Department of Homeless Services (DHS) NYC shelter system Homeless services Emergency shelter Transitional housing Legal Disclaimer: All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to protected veteran status, disability or any other status protected under applicable federal, state or local law. Many of our job openings require access to government buildings or military installations. Candidates must pass pre-employment qualifications of Cherokee Federal. Many of our job openings require access to government buildings or military installations. Candidates must pass pre-employment qualifications of Cherokee Federal.