Right of Way Agent jobs in Springfield, MA

Housing Search Worker

At Way Finders, we are passionately invested in lifting up the region’s people, places, and systems. Though our team performs a wide variety of functions, we are united by our shared mission: to build and advocate for a thriving and equitable region; to improve the stability and economic mobility of families and individuals; and to develop and manage a robust range of safe, affordable housing options.

Every day, our team helps people facing real challenges—with housing, jobs, personal finances, and other cornerstones of daily stability—to find real solutions. And we help communities and systems to grow in positive, strategic ways. We know that the right help at the right time can make all the difference; Way Finders provides transformative help to tens of thousands of people each year. Always with respect, always with compassion.

Interested in joining our team of dedicated professionals? Way Finders is currently seeking a full-time Housing Search Worker. The Housing Search Worker supports homeless families with rehousing efforts to quickly exit shelter, continually reviewing needs and goals with efficiency and empathy.

The candidate will work fully onsite.

Responsibilities include:

• Optimize the quantity and quality of housing through strength-based client assessments that address needs and barriers, in-depth research on housing eligibility/opportunity; and the development and maintenance of strong connections to the public/private landlord community
• Triage with Housing Case Managers and System Navigators to provide suitable housing alongside supports and resources; ensure monthly rehousing plans are completed
• Support, assist, and advocate for clients throughout rehousing process: fill out applications, schedule/attend showings, inform and update on tenant selection process, apply and appeal for reasonable accommodations, etc.
• Assist and train clients on budgeting, effective problem-solving, and options planning; assess with foresight and help to resolve eviction actions, utility arrears, or other adverse factors impacting housing
• Educate clients about tenant and landlord rights and responsibilities, rental assistance programs, homebuyer readiness information, and available community resources; remain current on new and modified housing assistance programs, services, and related regulations to ensure the accurate provision of guidance to clients
• Maintain complete, accurate, and timely case notes in database/systems; ensure timely and effective case communication across appropriate internal departments to deliver high-quality service
• Conduct regular unit walkthroughs to identify tenancy preservation concerns as well as potential safety issues; submit work orders for issues as needed
• Collaborate with Housing Case Manager to track progress towards rehousing, submit incident and non-compliance reports; assist and confirm that Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accommodations are submitted to the appropriate Coordinator
• Establish and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with internal staff (including across departments), owners, landlords, community groups, constituents, and stakeholders
• Proactively identify and inform leadership of any significant issues that may adversely affect the organization
• Conduct in-person meetings at homes and in office locations
• On-call duties as necessary

Requirements include:

• 2 years' equivalent experience in housing, social services, or related role; a combination of experience plus a high school diploma (or equivalent) may be a substitute
• Preference for experience with conducting housing searches
• Demonstrated ability with Microsoft Office, and comfort learning new technologies
• Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills across all levels of an organization and with constituents and stakeholders, with the ability to work with diverse populations
• Ability to work both independently and as a member of a team
• Excellent organizational skills with a high degree of accuracy and attention to detail, plus the ability to reprioritize
• Valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record; reliable vehicle
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) skills preferred, but not required
• CORI/SORI

Benefits include: Generous paid time-off | 12 holidays annually | Health, dental, and vision insurance options | Educational assistance | Medical Reimbursement Account | Dependent Care Account | 403(b) retirement plan with employer match | Life insurance | Short-term and long-term disability insurance | Transportation benefits | Employee Assistance Program | Annual staff picnic!

Wage starts between $17.00 and $19.75 per hour depending on qualifications. Interested applicants must submit a cover letter and resume; applications will be accepted until the position is filled. CORI/MVR.

Way Finders is an Equal Opportunity Employer that seeks a diverse staff in order to reflect our community and those we serve. Qualified individuals from diverse backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply. This position is available to all without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, disability, age, gender or gender identity, sexual orientation, political affiliation, or veteran status. We provide reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals.