Northeast Kingdom Community Action (NEKCA) services the three counties in the heart of Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom.

NEKCA’s staff consist of a hardworking team dedicated to the clients we serve while supporting one another in the work that we do.

Join the NEKCA team to experience the many benefits that we offer including:

• Health care coverage
• Dental care coverage
• Vision coverage
• Life/Short Term Disability/AD&D
• Retirement Plan
• Vacation
• Sick time off
• Paid holidays
• Employee Assistance Program

All NEKCA staff contribute to a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion.

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Housing Specialist

PROGRAM: Housing Opportunity Program (HOP)

HRS PER WK / WKS PER YR: 40 hours/ 52 weeks

POSITION CLASSIFICATION: Full Time / Permanent

This position will be responsible for maintaining our 4 emergency shelters in Caledonia and southern Essex counties, Case Coordination for our Rapid Rehousing Vouchers and General Housing support. These will primarily be responsible for interviewing clients to determine services needed; coordination and follow-up in providing services and/or referral to individuals and families who request assistance and are working toward self-sufficiency. Provide routine inspections and oversite of our properties to make sure all shelter rules are being followed. This position will provide information about services available to low-income people, make referrals to appropriate agencies and community resources, and provide direct assistance for emergency and supportive services when available. There will be case coordination and support for clients on coordinated entry for up to two years if they qualify for a Rapid Rehousing Voucher. The Outreach Specialist will also keep abreast of community resources and benefits that our clients may be eligible for. Will also be responsible for all aspects of working within the Outreach department in a team effort approach.

• Demonstrate competency in all five areas of NEKCAs Core Values. Demonstrate respect for all NEKCA clients, the choices they make and the challenges they face.
• Manage a case load of up to 11 families.
• Support our community members who are experiencing homelessness.
• Be able to work independently in a community and home base setting.
• Manage flow of applicants to minimize waiting time.
• Assess clients in crisis to determine immediate needs and develop plans for immediate response.
• Perform intake for Crisis Program, Warmth, CSBG and any other energy assistance funded programs. Determine and verify income for all applicants in accordance with all program requirements. Order fuel from designated vendor for clients whose application has been approved.
• Assist households in completing forms for a variety of benefit programs, such as 3sqVT, SFA, Gilman housing, Rental applications. Understand and be able to negotiate Economic Services regulations and other information about government benefits available to assist low-income people.
• Coordinate and follow-up with delivery of services to be provided to individuals/families moving towards self-sufficiency. Share options of available resources available to low-income people
• Develop and nurture contacts with other community-based organizations, participate in collaborative efforts to develop and expand services. Work collaboratively with other providers to address needs of low-income households.
• Work as a team member to support colleagues, program and agency as a whole.
• Process cases with supervisor after each meeting with client
• Understand all program guidance and policies; incorporate them into daily procedures. Complete all necessary logs, documentation, and client files in accurate and timely manner.
• Attend and participate in staff, agency, and service provider meetings deemed necessary for job performance. Attend Fuel Program procedure and access computer trainings as needed.
• Provide clients with housing information, determination eligibility and assist with required paperwork.
• Coordinate and follow-up with delivery of services to be provided to individuals/families moving towards self-sufficiency.
• All other duties assigned by your supervisor.

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  Must comply with NEKCA policies if hired.
• Staff will be required to authorize and pass NEKCA’s criminal record check process
• Staff is required to be completely vaccinated against COVID-19 or approved for an exemption prior to starting position
• Excellent punctuality and attendance are essential.
• High school diploma or equivalent required and the ability to read, write and have basic math skills. Additional related education and/or experience preferred.
• Must have home telephone and reliable transportation.
• Six months to one year experience in human services field preferred. Knowledge of community resources including local service providers, state and federal agencies.
• Must have excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Must be able to maintain good relations with clients, other outreach staff, and members of the community. Must have knowledge of basic computer skills and record keeping, including spreadsheet applications.
• This position is considered a mandated reporter.
• Must be assertive, responsible and able to work flexible hours. Must be self-motivated, self-initiated and able to demonstrate positive problem solving skills in stressful situations. Will work independently and as part of the Outreach team.

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NEKCA is an Equal Opportunity Employer & Provider

All new and rehired employees and all current employees who have transferred or been promoted to a new position will be placed on a 6-month Trial Service Period.