WI Balance of State coC - Homeless Systems Specialist

The Wisconsin Balance of State Continuum of Care (WIBOSCOC) provides leadership and coordination to local homeless coalitions and one tribal nation across Wisconsin, serving all counties except for Dane, Milwaukee, and Racine. 

Under the federal HEARTH Act, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) requires Continuums of Care (CoCs) to ensure efficient and effective delivery of housing and supportive services to households experiencing homelessness. A core component of this work is the implementation of a coordinated, CoC-wide Coordinated Entry System.  

WIBOSCOC supports local homeless coalitions in building and strengthening effective homeless crisis response systems including homeless prevention, outreach, intake and assessment, diversion, emergency services, supportive services, transitional housing, and permanent housing.

The CoC Homeless System Specialist plays a central role in this work by:

• Supporting local coalitions with program development and system improvement

• Building and maintaining strong partnerships with service providers

• Identifying service gaps and system barriers

• Evaluating system performance at the coalition level

• Providing training and technical assistance

• Collaborating with CoC staff to implement improvements

Through this coordinated and data-informed approach, WIBOSCOC strengthens local capacity, promotes system-wide accountability, and advances a shared vision to prevent and end homelessness - across the Balance of State - ensuring that every person experiencing homelessness has access to safe, stable housing and supports necessary to achieve long-term stability.

Essential Job Functions

1. Support the Coordinated Entry System to ensure access for youth experiencing or at risk of experiencing homelessness

2. Monitor coordinated entry process and ensure compliance with CoC-funded youth homeless programs requirements

3. Partner with local homeless coalitions to identify barriers and implement solutions that improve system effectiveness

4. Assist with implementation of coalition action and after-hour response strategies

5. Provide education and guidance on best practices in homeless response systems across the Balance of State

6. Ensure program standards align with current HUD regulations; support agencies in implementing policies and procedures.

7. Collaborate with people with lived experience to inform planning, decision-making, and system design

8. Coordinate and deliver training, technical assistance, and system performance improvement efforts

10. Participate in CoC-wide initiatives and special projects, coalition and committee support, and the annual conference

11. Prepare and submit required reports to state and federal funders

12. Perform other duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications and Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant area, or an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to perform the essential duties of the position

• Experience with coordinated entry, HUD funded grant programs, and HMIS preferred

• Working knowledge of grant requirements and applicable state and federal regulations

• Demonstrated commitment to preventing and ending homelessness, particularly for youth, through trauma-informed and person-centered approaches

• Ability to build authentic, trust-based relationships with partners, including service providers, community leaders, and individuals with lived experience

• Experience or interest in identifying systemic barriers and advancing solutions that improve access to housing and services

• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a dynamic, statewide system

• Strong analytical and communication skills, including the ability to translate complex information into clear, actionable insights for varied audiences

• Highly organized and adaptable, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

• Self-motivated and solutions-oriented, with a proactive approach to problem-solving and continuous improvement

• Individuals with lived experience of homelessness are strongly encouraged to apply

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (especially Excel) and Google Workspace

• Strong written and verbal communication skills with close attention to detail

• Ability and willingness to travel, including overnight travel within Wisconsin and occasional national conferences

• Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and adequate vehicle insurance required

Supervision

This full-time position will report to the Homeless Systems Manager and does not supervise any staff. This position is a fully remote position, with statewide travel as needed. Candidates must reside in Wisconsin or within 30 miles of the state border.

Compensation and Benefits

All CoC staff are employees of Institute for Community Alliances (ICA), which serves as the employer of record for WIBOSCOC. Compensation and benefits are provided by ICA.

The starting salary for this position is $55,000 - $60,000 annually with benefits and travel reimbursement.

How to Apply

Candidates must submit a resume and cover letter outlining how their experience aligns with this role. Letters of recommendation are encouraged.

Application Deadline: Friday, May 22nd, 2026

WIBOSCOC is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EEO) and encourages applicants from varied backgrounds, including individuals with lived experience of homelessness.