Program Support Specialist

Program Support Specialist

As a long-time leader in Connecticut, New Reach hopes to now chart a new path by fundamentally shifting how our community manages and responds to the homelessness and housing insecurity crises. With increased focus on preventing evictions and providing long-term stability for those who are establishing their independence, we believe a true systems change is possible. We imagine a world where the need for shelter is minimal because individuals and families are able to stay in their homes instead of being evicted and those who are struggling to make ends meet can get the help they need to maintain stability. We inspire lasting independence for all people affected by homelessness and poverty through a continuum of housing and support, using the most innovative, progressive, equitable, and inclusive methods.

Reporting to the Program Director, the Program Support Specialist provides administrative and operational support to the Rapid Re-Housing and Permanent Supportive Housing programs within the Greater New Haven Housing Services portfolio. This position assists with day-to-day program coordination, documentation, reporting, and communication to ensure efficient service delivery and compliance with funder and agency requirements. The Program Support Specialist works closely with program staff, operations, and community partners to support housing placements, track program data, and maintain organized systems that promote effective and timely service delivery. Essential Functions:

• Provide administrative and logistical support to ensure smooth daily operations across diversion, crisis, and housing programs. Assist program leadership with scheduling, reporting, and coordination between departments.
• Ensure program files, leases, and service documentation meet agency, funder, and accreditation standards. Support preparation for audits, monitoring visits, and quality assurance reviews.
• Support scheduling and tracking of apartment inspections, rent reasonableness reviews, lease renewals, and maintenance work orders. Communicate with landlords, vendors, and operations staff to ensure timely resolution of housing needs.
• Assist with collecting, reviewing, and submitting financial documentation for payment or reimbursement. Support grant and contract reporting as directed by program leadership.
• Prepare agendas, take meeting minutes, and ensure follow-up on action items for leadership and team meetings. Manage the shared calendar, coordinate meeting spaces, and support internal communications.
• Maintain professional communication with community partners, housing providers, and funders as directed. Represent the agency in meetings and assist in follow-up communications and reporting.
• Identify administrative process improvements to enhance team efficiency and client service delivery. Support leadership with special projects and agency initiatives as needed.
• Uphold strict confidentiality and ethical standards in handling client and staff information, following HIPAA and agency policies.
• Perform additional administrative or coordination tasks as necessary to support program success and agency operations.

Qualifications:

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Human Services, or a related field required (or equivalent combination of education and experience)
• Minimum 2–4 years of experience in an administrative, program coordination, or office management role
• Experience in human services, housing, or nonprofit administration preferred
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and familiarity with database systems • Strong attention to detail and accuracy in data entry, reporting, and recordkeeping
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team
• Demonstrated professionalism, discretion, and confidentiality
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation with proof of insurance

Expectations:

• Maintain a proactive and solutions-focused approach to daily responsibilities
• Communicate clearly, respectfully, and effectively with staff, clients, and partners
• Be organized, reliable, and detail-oriented in all administrative and operational tasks
• Exhibit flexibility and adaptability in a dynamic, team-oriented environment
• Uphold confidentiality, professionalism, and integrity at all times
• Demonstrate initiative in identifying ways to improve administrative systems and program efficiency
• Represent New Reach's core values: Professionalism, Integrity, Compassion, and Initiative
• Adhere to all agency policies and procedures

Physical Demands:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools or controls; reach with hands and arms; climb stairs; balance; stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl; talk or hear; taste or smell. The associate must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, and the ability to adjust focus.