Housing Specialist

Since 1953, Empower Simcoe has specialized in providing a wide range of programs and services for people and families throughout Simcoe County. We are looking for innovative, passionate, and dedicated employees. Our inclusive culture empowers all of us to Be, Belong and Thrive. If you are looking for a career where you can make a difference and feel proud of the work you do everyday, you've come to the right place.

Your future starts now at Empower Simcoe!

We are recruiting for a Housing Specialist Contract to initiate and develop relationships with landlords, property owners and managers of property management companies in an effort to secure rental market units for Housing First participants. You will collaborate with Regional Housing Support Services staff to obtain adequate and affordable housing, facilitate ongoing cooperative and successful tenant/landlord relationships, and work to reduce high acuity, chronic homelessness.

The contract will run until December 31, 2027.

• Work up to 37.5 hours per week.
• Minimum starting rate of pay is $31.49 per hour.
• 11 paid statutory holidays.
• Employer paid confidential employee assistance program for you and your family members.

• A Community College Diploma or Degree in Business with a focus on sales and marketing, or a Degree/Diploma in Social Services in combination with relevant experience.
• Minimum of 2 years recent full‑time work experience building and implementing marketing plans; working experience within social services or experience working in the housing or homeless sector.
• Demonstrated knowledge of Housing First principles, guidelines and related housing concepts, acts and regulations.
• Knowledge of rental market trends and experience in facilitating training and information sharing sessions.
• Knowledge of marketing/communications is an asset.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, administrative and organizational skills and ability to prioritize tasks.
• Strong interpersonal skills with proven ability to work independently as well as part of a team; demonstrated ability to work in a computerized environment.

• Must have a valid Class G driver's license and reliable transportation to be used in the course of employment.
• Must be prepared to work flexible hours as required.
• Must be available to work throughout Simcoe County.

• Engage and recruit landlords to participate in a Housing First model.
• Initiate new and facilitate ongoing relationships with local landlords, property owners, property managers, realty companies.
• Pro‑actively work with landlords and specialized housing teams to identify barriers and gaps in service needs to develop and maintain safe and affordable rental housing options.
• Collaborate with Housing First Case Managers to assess housing and stabilization plans to best meet housing and stabilization goals.
• Act as a liaison and provide guidance to housing staff on housing related opportunities within communities.
• Organize and/or facilitate workshops, information sessions and in‑services to landlords, property owners and managers of property management companies around Housing First, landlord engagement and related housing concepts.
• Mediate alongside the Housing First Case Manager to support positive landlord/tenant relationships.
• Maintain a landlord registry with relevant and up‑to‑date local rental opportunities.
• Execute various property inspections.
• Participate in data collection and evaluation to develop and re‑refine landlord engagement efforts.
• Keep accurate records and produce reports in a timely and accurate manner.
• Maintain timely, thorough and accurate case notes and enter and maintain relevant data system(s).
• Participate in and contribute at community tables, committees and working groups, as appropriate and necessary.
• Perform any other duties as assigned.

Empower Simcoe is committed to a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace where everyone feels respected and valued. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to…