Housing Retention Specialist

Position Summary

The Housing Retention Specialist is part of the COTS Housing Services department and works with families and individuals residing in COTS Housing. The primary responsibility will be to identify the client’s immediate, short-term needs, and strategize opportunities for stabilizing client/tenants in the COTS housing portfolio that are at risk of losing their housing.

Essential Functions/Responsibilities

• Build and maintain relationships with COTS Housing tenants; regularly visit each COTS Housing building.

• Develop budget plans, working with tenants to prioritize needs, set goals, and assist their follow-through in achieving those goals.

• Maintain knowledge base on community, state, and federal resources that clients may be eligible for, which will ensure their housing stability. Advocate and assist tenants in seeking community resources and support services.

• Provide training and referrals to tenants regarding financial empowerment, life skills, tenant education.

• Maintain knowledge of community partners and support systems focused on mental health and substance use. Work with tenants and HRC team members to identify and coordinate services as needed.

• Support clear and timely communication between tenants, resident manager, property management and other necessary service providers. Facilitate conversations when necessary.

• Collaborate with HRC team members and Property & Facilities Director to ensure support for tenants and problem solve current or potential concerns; requires consistent review of tenants and timely notification.

• Partner with Resident Managers to cultivate a positive living environment for all tenants.

• Track tenant information using Homeless Management Information System (HMIS) database. Create tailored tracking sheet as necessary.

• Actively participate in the Housing Support meetings and tenant selection process.

• Review processes and procedures related to COTS Housing; identify opportunities for process improvements and efficiencies.

• Provide support as needed after regular business hours. Requires on call hours.

• Attend professional development and training opportunities as provided.

• Attend program and organization wide staff meetings.

• Other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Ability to work with individuals with mental health, medical, substance abuse and employment issues required.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills

• Knowledge of risk factors associated with domestic and sexual violence and their relationship to homelessness, as well as knowledge and experience working with issues of poverty and substance use

• Knowledge of federal and state housing subsidies, Low Income Housing Tax Credits, and project based housing programs

• Intermediate computer skills, with familiarity with Microsoft Office products (Outlook, Teams, Excel)

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team of supports for tenants and guests.

Required Education & Experience

• Minimum of HS degree or equivalent required; BSW or BA in a related field strongly preferred. At least two years of related experience required; a combination of coursework and experience will also be considered.

• Prior experience with conflict resolution required.

• A background in social work highly preferred.

• Strong candidates will have experience with individuals experiencing homelessness and crisis intervention, as well as knowledge of resources and services for individuals and families. This includes federal and state housing subsidy programs and affordable housing systems.

• Experience with Foothold or other HMIS preferred.

All positions at COTS require a commitment to our mission: Advocating for long-term solutions to end homelessness and provide emergency shelter, services, and long-term housing for Vermonters who are experiencing homelessness or are marginally housed