Housing Search Specialist For Trans Social Services & Advocacy Organization

NOTE: This position is non-hybrid and in-office only as TGIJP is a rapid response / client needs and client facing organization

Solidify and deepen your commitment to advancing social justice by joining our dynamic team of social service professionals at the TGIJP Black Trans Cultural Center. Whether you’re already a seasoned movement superhero or just ready to expand to the next level of opportunity and experience, go ahead send us your cover letter and resume because we want to meet YOU. When you join the TGIJP Black Trans Cultural Center, you’re afforded the opportunity, experience, and autonomy to channel your superpowers toward directly helping the lives of the community members and stakeholders we center most: Black and BIPOC trans, GNC, intersex, and nonbinary people impacted by the carceral system.

Job Summary:

The Housing Search Specialist at the TGIJP Black Trans Cultural Center serves as a liaison who engages with landlords, property managers, and housing agencies to secure safe and affordable housing options for clients. This role involves conducting housing searches, advocating for clients' housing needs, and facilitating lease agreements. The Housing Search Specialist plays a critical role in supporting clients in their journey towards housing stability and independence.

Key Responsibilities:

Housing Search and Placement:

• Conduct housing searches based on clients' preferences, needs, and eligibility criteria.
• Identify and assess available housing options, including apartments, rental units, and shared housing arrangements.
• Coordinate property viewings and assist clients in evaluating housing options.

Landlord and Property Manager Engagement:

• Build and maintain relationships with landlords, property managers, and housing agencies.
• Advocate for clients' housing needs and negotiate lease terms on their behalf.
• Address landlord concerns and facilitate communication between clients and housing providers.

Application and Screening Assistance:

• Assist clients in completing rental applications and gathering required documentation.
• Provide guidance on tenant screening processes and requirements.
• Advocate for clients facing barriers to housing due to past rental history or other factors.

Housing Resources and Support:

• Connect clients with housing resources, rental assistance programs, and support services.
• Provide information and referrals for housing-related legal assistance, tenant rights, and eviction prevention.
• Support clients in navigating housing systems and accessing available resources.

Documentation and Reporting:

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of housing searches, client interactions, and housing placements.
• Complete required documentation for program reporting and compliance purposes.
• Generate reports on housing outcomes, client demographics, and housing market trends.
• Perform other duties as required and/or as assigned.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Public Administration, or related field.

Required Qualifications:

• Experience: Previous experience in housing search assistance, tenant advocacy, or community outreach preferred.
• Ability to build rapport and establish positive relationships with landlords & housing providers.
• Knowledge of local housing market trends, rental laws, and tenant rights.
• Excellent negotiation and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Enthusiasm for TGIJP’s work and a passionate belief in the leadership of Black transgender women within a non-profit organization.
• Demonstrated awareness of and commitment to a broad range of social, racial, and economic justice issues and an understanding of the multiple communities TGIJP represents (emphasis on currently and formerly incarcerated TGI populations).
• Professional and discreet demeanor with good interpersonal skills. Ability to handle confidential information and use of tact, respect, discretion and unbiased judgment.
• Experience working in integrated service teams using participant-centered, trauma-informed, harm-reduction approaches.
• Proficiency in computer skills and knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite and Google Suite software and database management.