Employment & Housing Specialist

Job Description

Job DescriptionAbout MHA

MHA – Mental Health Association is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping people live their best life. We provide a wide range of services across Western Massachusetts, including outpatient therapy, substance use recovery, supports for individuals with developmental disabilities or brain injuries, and residential and housing programs. MHA serves individuals impacted by mental illness, substance use, developmental disabilities, brain injuries, and homelessness. Our mission is rooted in inclusion, dignity, and empowering people to lead fulfilling, independent lives.

About the Division of Recovery Services (DRS)

MHA’s Division of Recovery Services (DRS) supports individuals of all ages who are navigating mental health and substance use challenges. Our youth residential programs serve adolescents involved with the Department of Children and Families (DCF) who are working through behavioral health needs in a safe, structured environment.

DRS also provides residential and outreach support for adults in recovery or currently living with addiction, many of whom may also experience co-occurring mental health concerns. Through compassionate, trauma-informed care, we help individuals build coping skills, restore stability, and work toward long-term recovery and wellness.

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Position Summary

The Employment & Housing Specialist supports adults (ages 18+) enrolled in the SHIFT Recovery Supportive Living program to achieve their goals of sustainable employment and stable housing. This position combines care coordination, job coaching, and housing navigation, while promoting independent living skills, financial stability and self-sufficiency. Based in Hampden County, this Monday–Friday role may require occasional flexibility to work mid-shift or evening hours based on the needs of the individuals.

Pay Rate: $21 an hour

Open Shift: Monday-Wednesday, Friday 9am-5pm & Thursday 11am-7pm (40h)

Key Responsibilities

• Assist individuals in securing and maintaining housing by supporting them through application processes, landlord outreach, and advocacy for tenancy preservation.
• Conduct housing readiness and safety inspections to ensure units meet program and individual needs.
• Provide job development and coaching, including support in resume writing, interview preparation, job searches, and skills training.
• Deliver vocational and housing assessments to identify individual strengths, goals, and service needs.
• Support individuals in learning independent living skills, such as budgeting, time management, and transportation use.
• Help individuals apply for and maintain public benefits, including SNAP, MassHealth, and housing subsidies.
• Support individuals in developing effective savings strategies and financial management skills.
• Promote community engagement and participation, connecting individuals to local resources, events, and opportunities.
• Document services and individual progress through timely completion of progress notes, data entry, and required reports.
• Coordinate housing placement for individuals transitioning out of the program, ensuring continuity of support and care.
• Transport individuals as needed to appointments, interviews, or housing viewings, while maintaining appropriate boundaries and safety.

Equal Opportunity Statement

The Mental Health Association is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Requirements

• Valid driver’s license, sufficient automobile insurance, acceptable driving record, and access to a reliable vehicle during working hours.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.
• Compassion, patience, and an understanding of trauma-informed care.
• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Able to pass and maintain certifications in CPR and First Aid.

• Experience supporting individuals with employment and/or housing preferred.

Benefits

• Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
• Retirement Plan (403B, IRA)
• Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
• Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)
• Long Term Disability
• $21 an hour