HSS Care Coordinator: A Comprehensive Guide to Housing Stabilization Services

The HSS Care Coordinator role is vital in supporting individuals with disabilities to achieve stable and successful community living. This article provides an in-depth look at the responsibilities, qualifications, and work environment associated with this position, primarily focusing on roles available in Saint Paul, Minnesota, as of March 2026.

What is an HSS Care Coordinator?

An HSS (Housing Stabilization Services) Care Coordinator provides services designed to support individuals live independently in the community. These services fall into three main categories: Housing Consultation, Housing Transition Services, and Housing Sustaining Services. The primary goal is to support individuals transitioning into housing, maintaining long-term stability, and avoiding homelessness or institutionalization. [3]

Key Responsibilities

The role of an HSS Care Coordinator is multifaceted, requiring a blend of direct client support, advocacy, and administrative tasks. Core duties include:

• Direct Client Support: Providing community-based Housing Stabilization Services to eligible adults (18+) with disabilities that impact their ability to live independently. This typically involves meeting with individuals 2-5 hours per week in their home or in the community. [3]
• Person-Centered Planning: Ensuring services are aligned with a person-centered housing plan, delivered in a culturally sensitive and appropriate manner. [3]
• Barrier Resolution: Identifying and assisting with resolving obstacles to accessing housing. [3]
• Benefits Assistance: Supporting clients in applying for benefits (county, state, tribal, and federal) to help afford housing. [3]
• Housing Search & Application: Researching housing options, contacting landlords, and assisting with housing applications. [3]
• Lease Negotiation & Safety: Helping clients understand and negotiate leases, and ensuring living arrangements are safe. [3]
• Resource Connection: Identifying resources for moving expenses and household goods. [3]
• Housing Retention: Supporting clients to maintain housing by identifying and addressing potential issues. [3]
• Recertification Assistance: Assisting with housing recertification processes. [3]
• Tenant Education: Training and coaching clients on tenant responsibilities, lease compliance, and household management. [3]
• Documentation & Data Management: Maintaining accurate billing and documentation in accordance with Department of Human Services guidelines, and entering data into systems like the Homeless Manager Information System (HMIS) and MN-ITS. [3]
• Crisis Intervention & Advocacy: Providing crisis assistance and acting as an advocate for clients as needed. [3]
• Transportation: Providing program and client transportation as needed. [3]

Qualifications & Skills

To be an effective HSS Care Coordinator, a combination of education, experience, and specific skills is required.

Minimum Qualifications

• Age: At least 18 years classic. [3]
• Training: Completion of 30 hours of training in recipient rights, person-centered planning, mental illness, co-occurring mental illness and substance abuse, local community resources, adult vulnerability, and resident confidentiality within the two years prior to hire. [3]
• Education: High school diploma or equivalent. [3]
• Driver’s License: Valid Minnesota driver’s license, reliable transportation, and valid insurance. [3]

Essential Skills & Knowledge

• Knowledge of housing and homelessness issues, considering mental, emotional, and physical factors. [3]
• Completion of mandated reporter training, including vulnerable adult law. [3]
• Completion of Housing Transition and Housing Sustaining training. [3]
• Critical thinking skills and the ability to function independently. [3]
• Knowledge of regulatory agency documentation requirements. [3]
• Understanding of pharmacology related to legal and illegal substances. [3]
• Strong organizational and time management skills. [3]
• Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills. [3]
• Basic knowledge of social work principles. [3]
• Ability to handle sensitive situations calmly and professionally. [3]
• Experience with computerized management information systems (HMIS, MN-ITS). [3]
• Effective written and verbal communication skills. [3]
• Strong observation, assessment, and crisis management skills. [3]
• Ability to handle stress and unstable client behavior. [3]
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and internet software. [3]

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate of Arts Degree in a Behavioral Science or Associate in Applied Science Degree-Human Service with two years of experience in a community setting. [3]
• Bachelor’s degree in social sciences (Social Work, Psychology, Human Services, Chemical Dependency, Sociology). [3]

Work Environment

The work environment is typically an office setting, with potential for moderate noise levels. Limited overnight travel may be required. Exposure to health risks inherent in a health center facility (hazardous chemicals, sharps, infectious body fluids) is possible. The position requires frequent standing, walking, sitting, bending, twisting, talking, and hearing. Occasional lifting of up to 50 pounds may be required. [3]

Job Outlook & Salary in Saint Paul, MN (as of March 2026)

As of March 2026, HSS Care Coordinator positions are available in Saint Paul, MN. Crestview Health Center is currently hiring for this role. [1, 2, 4] Salary ranges from $20 to $26 per hour. [1]

Key Takeaways

• HSS Care Coordinators play a crucial role in supporting individuals with disabilities to live successfully in the community.
• The position requires a diverse skillset, including direct client support, advocacy, and administrative tasks.
• Specific training and qualifications are required to ensure competent and ethical service delivery.
• The job outlook in Saint Paul, MN, is currently positive, with available positions and a competitive salary.