Affordable Housing Specialist

Affordable Housing Program Specialist

Organization: Housing Authority of the County of Santa Barbara (HASBARCO)

Salary Range: $30.7771 - $37.4098 per hour

Location: Santa Maria, California

Hours: Full-Time, 78 hours biweekly. Full time, benefits eligible

About the Housing Authority of the County of Santa Barbara (HASBARCO): HASBARCO is dedicated to building, acquiring, managing, and maintaining residential rental units for persons of very low and low income. We strive to provide affordable housing opportunities in an environment that preserves personal dignity and maintains public trust. Our team of committed professionals works to enhance the quality of life for our communities, making Santa Barbara County a place where everyone has the opportunity for a better life.

Role Overview: We are looking for a dedicated Affordable Housing Program Specialist to provide a variety of subsidized low-income housing rent services and case management to low-income individuals and families. This role is pivotal in ensuring our communities are not just places to live but homes where residents can thrive. You will be responsible for managing property operations, maintaining standards, and fostering a positive environment for our residents.

About the Leadership Team:

At HASBARCO, we don’t just offer jobs — we offer purpose. Our leadership team is entrepreneurial, innovative, and adaptable, guiding our mission in an ever-changing environment. We are committed to addressing housing needs across the communities we serve, and the well-being of our residents is our highest priority. We’re building more than housing — we’re building stronger communities.

We foster a workplace culture grounded in trust, teamwork, and collaboration. Our employees’ longevity speaks volumes about our commitment to our people — we invest in staff training and professional development to ensure every team member has the opportunity to grow and succeed.

If you’re passionate about making a difference, committed to excellence, and ready to contribute to a forward-thinking and mission-driven organization, we welcome you to be part of our journey. Join us, and let’s shape the future together.

Key Responsibilities for the Affordable Housing Program Specialist Role:

• Manage a caseload of multi-family units in compliance with Federal Regulations and the HACSB Administrative Plan.
• Stay current with U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Federal Regulations related to subsidized rental assistance programs.
• Conduct comprehensive reviews of rental assistance client case files to ensure accuracy and compliance.
• Determine client eligibility for program assistance and process client intake files.
• Conduct certifications and re-certifications for tenant eligibility on time and correctly.
• Identify income reporting discrepancies and manage repayments.
• Coordinate with the Housing Quality Inspections (HQS) team to ensure timely inspections.
• Perform property management functions including inspections, lease enforcement, and dispute resolution.
• Maintain accurate client files and computer records in accordance with HUD regulations and HACSB policies.
• Respond promptly to allegations such as criminal activity, fraud, and program violations, and attend related hearings.

Who Will Thrive in This Role:

• Team Players with a Heart for Service: If you are humble and prioritize the needs of the community and your team over personal accolades, you'll find fulfillment here.
• Eager Learners and Innovators: Individuals who are passionate about excellence and continuously seeking ways to improve community housing will excel.
• Community-Minded and Strategic Thinkers: Those with a smart approach to understanding property management and community dynamics will thrive in this environment.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High school diploma or GED equivalent with specialized coursework in computer software programs, general accounting, real estate, property management, psychology, or social work.
• Two years of property management experience (100 units preferred)
• YARDI experience preferred
• Two years of experience qualifying others for financial assistance (LIHTC, HCV)
• Must have a valid California Driver’s License and maintain a good driving record acceptable to the agency’s insurance carrier.

Hiring Process Overview:

• Application Review: We’ll review your initial application to determine if you meet the basic requirements.
• Panel Interview: To assess your technical skills and job-related knowledge.
• Manager Interview: To assess your fit with HASBARCO, the position, and the manager.
• Job Offer: For selected candidates who pass all steps.

How to Apply:

Visit the careers page of the Housing Authority of the County of Santa Barbara website and submit an online employment application.

Submit a detailed resume outlining your experience, skills, and achievements.

Conditions of Employment:

• Working Hours: Most staff positions work a 9/80 schedule during regular business hours between 7:30 AM and 5:00 PM.
• Provisional Period: All appointments are provisional subject to a minimum six-month provisional period.
• Background Investigation: A background investigation, including criminal history and DMV reports, is required for all hires.
• Medical Examination: A medical examination and drug testing may be required for certain positions.

Employee Benefits:

• Step Salary Advancement: Salary advancement upon completing the provisional period and at one-year intervals thereafter.
• Vacation Leave: Accrued at 12-24 working days per year based on years of service.
• Sick Leave: Accrued at 12 working days per year.
• Holidays: Thirteen paid holidays per year.
• Group Insurance: Nearly 90% employer-paid medical, dental, vision, and LTD coverage for employees working 30 hours/week.
• Deferred Compensation: Voluntary 457 Plan.
• Social Security: Compulsory participation for all employees.
• Credit Union: Membership available.
• Tuition Reimbursement: Pre-approval for reimbursement of accredited courses.

HASBARCO is an equal opportunity employer and maintains a drug-free/smoke-free fragrance-free workplace.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $32.85 - $39.93 per hour

Expected hours: 39 per week

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person

Salary : $31 - $37