Job Description

Position Summary Mediator and Legal Counselor is an essential member of the Housing Resources Team. They provide conflict resolution and coaching services to clients outside of court with a focus on landlord/tenant relationships as part of the Housing Resources Team. They mediate small claims, civil and summary process matters in district courts in Greater Boston. In addition, the Mediator and Legal Counselor provides analysis and interpretation of housing related laws, regulations, and legal documents for Housing Resources team members. Role Responsibilities Provide conflict resolution services, coaching and legal education outside of court to stabilize landlord-tenant relationships. Most of this work is by telephone or video conference; however, the ability to meet with parties in Boston, Cambridge or greater Boston may sometimes be necessary. Keep up to date on rental assistance programs to make appropriate referrals for tenants at risk of eviction. Mediate day-of-court small claims, civil and summary process disputes involving multiple stakeholders. This work is on-site at multiple local district courts. Craft agreements in keeping with the needs of parties and in compliance with district or housing court requirements. Maintain daily records, spreadsheets and files for each conflict resolution case, as well as data privacy protocols. Maintain records in Salesforce as required by grantor. Prepare data driven reports and/or case narratives when required for funders and grant requirements. Participate in staff meetings, case conferencing and preparing occasional trainings on conflict resolution, affordable housing, and eviction prevention as part of the Housing Resources team. Examine housing related legal documents, contracts, and agreements for accuracy, compliance, and potential risks. Research housing related legal issues, statutes, and case law to support legal agreements, strategies and decision-making. Offer housing related legal education to team members to guide understanding of specific legal subject matters. Qualifications And Keys To Success Certificate in Basic Mediation Training required. Juris Doctor degree required. Licensed attorney in MA required. Minimum 2 years experience as a licensed attorney in MA required, preferably in the housing field. Minimum 2 years’ experience as certified mediator required. Alternate work experience as a lawyer also satisfies this requirement. Ability to work in a single mediator model. Ability to think creatively and flexibly, in a non-traditional model, to resolve issues that can impact housing stability. 2-5 years of work experience, preferably in human services, legal, housing, mental health or the non-profit sector. Excellent oral and written communication skills. Experience with Zoom mediation and dispute resolution preferred. Experience with housing related conflicts preferred. Excellent problem solving and people skills; cultural competency and ability to establish effective professional relationships with diverse participants. Excellent organizational skills. Proficient in Microsoft Office including PowerPoint; intermediate Excel/Word. Bi-lingual in Spanish, Haitian Creole, Portuguese, or Mandarin preferred. To Apply / What To Expect Please submit a resume and cover letter to be considered for the role. Qualified candidates may expect the following interview process: Step 1: 45-60 minute virtual interview with the Hiring Manager Step 2: 60 minute in-person interview with Just A Start team members Step 3: Reference checks (3) and verification of prior employment Step 4: Background check Work Requirements This is a 37.5 hour per week hybrid position with both in-office and off-site work responsibilities. Job Details Location: 430 Rindge Ave, Cambridge, MA 02140 Compensation: $79,000 – $89,000 annual salary plus benefits Salary And Benefits This is a 37.5 hour per week position with a salary range of $79,000 - $89,000. Benefits include medical, dental, short- and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, transportation benefits, 20 PTO days in the first year, 13 paid holidays, volunteer time off, employee assistance program, and a 401k with 3% employer contribution. A “Find Your Joy Fridays” benefit allows staff to leave early on Fridays at 2:00 pm. About Just A Start Just A Start is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our staff represents a wide range of ages, races, interests, and backgrounds. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetics or any other characteristic protected by law. Organizational Background Just A Start believes that access to stable housing and sustainable careers are essential building blocks of equitable communities. Our programs include affordable housing, education and job training, and comprehensive support and mediation services spanning Cambridge and beyond. We operate 645 affordable apartments and provide financial and technical assistance to support stable housing for low- and moderate-income tenants and homeowners. We prepare individuals with skills to secure family-sustaining careers and strengthen the region’s workforce. Physical Demands Must possess mobility to work in a standard office setting and to use standard office equipment. Vision to read printed materials and a computer screen; hearing and speech to communicate in person and over the telephone. The employee must occasionally lift up to 10 pounds. Specific vision abilities required include close vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus. Work Environment The work environment is described as quiet to moderate. #J-18808-Ljbffr Just A Start

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