Family Self‑Sufficiency (FSS) Director

About the Role

The Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) Director plays a critical leadership role supporting the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Program. This position empowers low‑income individuals and families—including those who are homeless, disabled, members of minority groups, or single parents—to access permanent, affordable housing and achieve long-term economic independence. The Director oversees all FSS operations, staff, compliance, reporting, and community partnerships to ensure high‑quality service delivery and successful participant outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

Program Leadership & Compliance

• Develop, implement, and refine FSS, FYI, and Section 8 Homeownership program components in alignment with NYSHCR and HUD guidelines.
• Ensure full program compliance, including SEMAP requirements, annual escrow reviews, and participant eligibility monitoring.
• Maintain accurate records, reporting systems, and quality control for all participant files.
• Oversee the execution of Contracts of Participation and Individual Service Plans.
• Review and update the FSS Action Plan as required.

Case Management Oversight

• Provide technical assistance, guidance, and training to FSS staff on program regulations and procedures.
• Conduct performance evaluations, assign work, monitor daily tasks, and ensure timely completion of progress notes.
• Assess and improve staff workflow to enhance efficiency and service quality.

Client Engagement & Support

• Motivate and guide participants in establishing and achieving personal, educational, and career goals.
• Conduct needs assessments and connect participants to appropriate internal and external resources.
• Advocate for clients with landlords, community partners, and service providers.
• Coordinate ongoing FSS activities and initiatives to support participant success.

Partnership Development

• Serve as a liaison to community agencies and stakeholders, strengthening collaborations and referral pipelines.
• Lead the development and management of the Program Coordinating Committee (PCC).
• Promote FSS program awareness through public speaking, outreach, and community presentations.
• Build positive and productive relationships with community partners to enhance program impact.

Program Operations & Reporting

• Manage escrow accounts, including ported accounts not yet absorbed.
• Process and monitor HUD 50058 forms and ensure accurate addendum updates.
• Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual reports for internal and external stakeholders.
• Lead the creation of FSS newsletters (winter and summer editions).
• Coordinate monthly close-outs for accurate reporting submissions to HCR.

Additional Responsibilities

• Conduct home visits as needed; may involve exposure to varying environments.
• Travel within CVR service areas required.
• Perform other related duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strong understanding of Housing Choice Voucher Program rules, policies, and federal regulations.
• Exceptional leadership, organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills.
• Ability to interpret complex federal and state guidelines accurately.
• Demonstrated ability to work under deadlines, adapt to changing priorities, and collaborate at all organizational levels.
• Skilled in counseling, interviewing, and engaging economically and socially disadvantaged families.
• Ability to foster a cooperative, inclusive, and welcoming work environment.
• Public speaking, partnership development, and community engagement skills.

Core Competencies

• Inclusiveness: Respects diverse perspectives and fosters a welcoming atmosphere.
• Adaptability: Adjusts to shifting priorities with sound judgment and critical thinking.
• Self‑Development: Actively pursues professional growth and skill-building.
• Effective Communication: Demonstrates strong listening, verbal, and written communication skills.
• Teamwork: Supports group success and adapts to changing team dynamics.
• Service‑Mindedness: Maintains strong, positive relationships with clients and partners.
• Stewardship: Demonstrates responsibility, ethical judgment, and accountability.
• Motivation: Shows initiative, creativity, and perseverance in problem-solving.

Training Requirements

• Family Self‑Sufficiency certification required within 6 months of hire.
• Attendance at required seminars, trainings, and professional development sessions.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Social Work or a related field and 1–3 years of experience working with the public in an HCV Program or similar environment.

OR

• Minimum of 10 years of experience working with economically and socially disadvantaged individuals and/or families in a similar capacity.

Salary : $82,000 - $85,000