The Bronx District Attorney’s Office is seeking a well-qualified staff whose diverse backgrounds reflect an ability to serve the 1.4 million members of the Bronx County community and to pursue a safer Bronx through fair justice. The Crime Victims Assistance Unit (CVAU) seeks a Housing Specialist to assist victims and witnesses with identifying safety concerns, provide safer housing options, and provide follow-up services necessary to establish short-and -long long-term housing remedies. The position will also provide emotional support and assist victims and witnesses in navigating the process and procedures of the criminal justice system. Services are not contingent upon an arrest; crisis and supportive services are provided, nonetheless.



JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

Identify safety Concerns by conducting a safety risk assessment.

Collaborate with NYPD, ADAs, and Witness Security Program with Safety assessment and planning.

Research Property Managers and Relators willing to work with the victims/witness population with bad payment and credit history.

Assist with data, document collection, and PDF files necessary for application submission for certain housing subsidized programs.

Complete Housing applications for transfer, Reinstatement of housing subsidies, and establishing new housing subsidies.

Advocate with Human Resources Administration to establish income and provide emergency monies for (Month Rent, Month Security, Broker’s Fees, Moving/Storage expenses, and Rental Arrears), necessary for relocation.

Advocate with New York Housing Programs to expedite the application process.

Make referrals to programs necessary to execute the relocation service plan.

Following up with agencies and witnesses to ensure timely compliance.

Assist with Housing appeal hearings.

Shelter Placement for Single Individuals and Families with NYC DHS and Domestic Violence Shelter Systems.

Work with individual Property Managers advocating release from lease and or transfer witnesses to another of their properties.

May include other duties defined by the program.


EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE/QUALIFICATIONS:

A Bachelor’s Degree is required by the candidate’s start date, Master’s preferred

Familiarity with victim and trauma-centered applications, victimization, and crisis intervention

A fluent Spanish speaker is strongly preferred.

Past advocacy and/or case management experience required

Knowledge of the neighborhoods and population of Bronx County preferred.

Familiarity with the Criminal Justice system preferred.

Knowledge of community resources

Ability to work in a fast-paced non-structured environment.

Excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills.

Ability to both interact and be comfortable with a diverse population.

Proficient in Microsoft Office, particularly Word, Excel, and Outlook.

1. A baccalaureate degree from an accredited college and two years of experience in community work or community centered activities in an area related to the duties described above; or
2. High school graduation or equivalent and six years of experience in community work or community centered activities in an area related to the duties as described above; or
3. Education and/or experience which is equivalent to "1" or "2" above. However, all candidates must have at least one year of experience as described in "1" above.

The City of New York is an inclusive equal opportunity employer committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual's sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.