To apply for this position, email us at mpadilla@nwfs.org. Please include "Youth Housing Specialist/R-2315" in the subject line. Be sure to attach your cover letter & resume.

Youth Housing Specialist | Salary: $24.76/hour

This position works closely with youth and young adults, ages 16-24, experiencing homelessness to assess their needs, assist with the housing search, and encourage stabilization in long-term housing. While youth housing specialists may assist in various ways, their role will focus on emergency shelter, housing navigation, and placement, or case management.         

What you’ll do:

• Receive referrals and assess the eligibility of potential clients. Refer to Youth Coordinated Housing Access screening for alternative programs if necessary.

• Obtain documentation, collect required data, and complete the intake paperwork for eligible clients.

• Provide trauma-informed, strengths-based case management and use a Housing First approach to address housing needs and facilitate connection to additional resources on a case-by-case basis.

• Coordinate with clients, landlords, and community partners to facilitate the application process. This includes requesting program funds to address rental barriers and application fees.

• Submit requests for funding with appropriate documentation utilizing NWFS procedures, and ensure transactions are completed.

• Collaborate with clients to develop an action plan to address additional needs and goals.

• Conduct regular check-ins with clients to provide continued, individualized support for action plan items and facilitate connection to community resources with the goal of continued housing stability. This includes driving to meet the client.

• Drive to meet clients, community partners, and landlords in order to build and maintain effective relationships.

• Serve as a liaison and advocate for program participants to mediate any issues.

• Maintain accurate case files, data collection, and documentation on a consistent basis.

• Other duties as required.

Who you are:

• A Bachelor’s degree in a related field is preferred, or in lieu of a degree, four years of experience in social services.

• Experience working with youth and young adults ages 16-24.

• Experience working with vulnerable communities and people from diverse backgrounds.

• Preferred experience working with homeless or at-risk households in a case management role.

• Preferred experience navigating homelessness.

Diversity Statement

Northwest Family Services, through our mission, practices, and the services we offer, are committed to the belief that all people deserve dignity and respect. As we serve our communities, we will continue to work together to listen, learn, and act to overcome historic values and structures that have led to discrimination and inequities.

We are committed to creating a culture of belonging where all staff is valued and given the opportunity to grow and succeed equitably. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender identity, gender expression, religion, age, sexual orientation, primary language, ethnic background, or socioeconomic status. NWFS pursues policies, strategies, and programs which promote diversity, inclusion, and equity in our daily work. We seek staff who share our vision and commitment to our communities.

Supplemental Information

Prior to a new hire, a background check, including criminal record history, will be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment. 

To apply for this position, email us at mpadilla@nwfs.org. Please include "Youth Housing Specialist/R-2315" in the subject line. Be sure to attach your cover letter & resume.