Housing Specialist

Housing Specialist Full-time, Term to March 31, 2023 Possibility of extension

It is the mission of Tungasuvvingat Inuit (TI) to broadly provide Inuit-specific programs that contribute to the health and wellbeing of Inuit and to encourage and support similar programs for Inuit across the country. With over 30 years of highly successful experience in crafting the design, development and delivery of a wide range of effective, client-centered services, TI continues to deliver quality programs and services that directly benefit our growing urban Inuit population.

The Housing Specialist proactively recruits landlords and property managers to promote TI’s Housing First program and acquire new apartments for Housing First clients. The incumbent will act as a resource to the Housing First team and clients on the Rental Tenant Act and Landlord Tenant Board procedures, including facilitating mediation with landlords when appropriate.

The Housing Specialist responsibilities will also include:

• Arranging and attending apartment viewings with clients;

• Liaising with landlords to ensure satisfaction with services received;

• Providing coaching to the Housing First team and clients on landlord communications;

• Mediating housing issues and concerns between relevant parties;

• Working with the Housing First Team to stay up-to-date on client housing needs and required changes;

• Identifying private market rental units and building an inventory of available housing options;

• Working with TI Communications to develop tools to raise awareness of housing; programs and services (e.g. marketing tools, brochures, newsletters);

• Participating in landlord, property management and home builder network activities to market a variety of housing programs and the benefits of working with them;
• Providing information to landlords as follows:
• Overview of the Housing First model
• Rental subsidy programs
• Rent direct payments
• Serving as the primary point of contact for landlords who have tenants receiving Housing Based Case Management services;

• Maintaining a database of procured units, noting geographical area, price and characteristics including: unit accessibility, proximity to community resources, transportation services, etc.;

• Acting as a resource to staff as clients identify and choose units, negotiating with landlords on the initial lease, and providing support to resolve any serious tenancy issues that arise;

• Providing crisis intervention and conflict resolution services;

• Referring clients to appropriate internal and external service as required in order to ensure continual support;

• Delivering effective services safely and respectfully while maintaining professional rapport with clients, peers, and other community service providers; and

• Organizing and maintaining client case files in accordance with TI’s protocols.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will have a thorough understanding of the Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal housing support and service system of Ottawa, familiarity with the local private rental market and the Ontario Residential Tenancies Act, knowledge of Inuit culture, values, Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit and traditional practices and have commitment to a client-centered approach when working with Inuit.

Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills, problem-solving skills, organizational skills, and computer literacy skills are necessary.

The ability to work effectively in a busy environment and in stressful situations, work independently with a strong sense of focus and work occasional evenings and weekends are all requirements of the position.

The ideal candidate will have a college diploma in human services, social work or a related field of study and 3 years’ experience delivering related urban housing services, preferably to Inuit. First aid, CPR and non-violent crisis intervention training is preferred. Fluency in English is required; Inuktitut language skills are a definite asset.

An acceptable combination of related education and experience may be considered.

A vulnerable sector check with results that are acceptable to TI is required as well as a valid driver’s licence and acceptable driver’s abstract.

Salary and Benefits

• TI offers a competitive annual salary

• 4% vacation accrual (paid out)

• 24/7 confidential Employee and Family Assistance Plan

Deadline for applications is May 1^st, 2022.

To apply, please submit your resume and cover letter to careers@tiontario.ca.

TI’s main office is located at 297 Savard Avenue, Ottawa which is conveniently located close to walking and biking trails and all major transportation access points. It is close to major amenities including recreation venues, malls and restaurants. Parking is free on the premise.

Interested candidates are encouraged to visit our website at tiontario.ca to learn more about our programs and services. Preference in hiring will be given to qualified Inuit candidates, applicants are encouraged to self-identify.

Accommodations for applicants with disabilities are available upon request.

We thank all interested candidates in advance, but unfortunately, we are only able to respond to those selected for an interview.