Housing Specialist

POSITION:  Housing Specialist I                                      

SUPERVISOR:  Supervisor

STATUS:  Non-Exempt

SUMMARY 

The position duties include a wide range of activities related to determining and documenting applicant and/or participant eligibility, income, rent and contractual relationships with owners in support of the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) operations using written administrative policies and procedures. The position requires full accountability for assigned cases including accurate and complete files, resolution of customer service cases, and responsiveness to participant and landlord inquires. 

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED:

Operates under the direct general supervision of a supervisor; the Housing Specialist exercises no supervision over other employees.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The below statements are intended to describe the general nature and scope of work being performed by this position. This is not a complete listing of all responsibilities, duties and/or skills required. Other duties may be assigned.

• Manage an assigned caseload of HCV participants.
• Conduct annual recertifications within required time frames.
• Complete interim recertifications as required.
• Conduct participant briefings.
• Process and monitor participant moves to a new dwelling. 
• Determine housing assistance payment and tenant rent calculation.
• Educate participants on program requirements and family obligations.
• Resolve concerns between owners, tenants, and the Public Housing Authority (PHA).
• Process all transactions within the PHA’s required business systems. 
• Maintain accurate and complete applicant/participant files.
• Provide excellent customer service to participants, landlords, co-workers, clients and vendors.
• Conduct all job functions in alignment with the PHA’s Administrative Plan, HUD regulations and other state and local requirements.
• Obtain certification in Housing Choice Voucher Specialist within 120 days of employment.
• Ensure regular attendance and punctuality.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Education equivalent to a four-year degree from a regionally accredited institution in Public Administration, Social Science or a closely related field; 
• Minimum of two years of progressively responsible work experience for a public agency, or related work in the social service or community service field preferred.
• Alternatively, a two-year degree with four years of experience will satisfy the qualifications.
• Must have the ability to interpret and apply regulations pertaining to the program. 
• Must be able to communicate effectively both orally and in writing and have excellent interpersonal skills and possess strong computer and organizational skills.