Rental Assistance Specialist

ESSENTIAL FUNCTION

• Work with families and individuals to confirm rental assistance eligibility and conduct assessments of needs in person or virtually.
• Work closely and coordinate with the La Voz Program Manager to staff walk-in hours at the office site and to manage client caseload and follow-ups.
• Participate and coordinate community outreach and/or events.
• Ensure that the program provides quality services and is compliant with the SF-ERAP Rental Assistance and Season of Sharing program.

·         Coordinate a housing stabilization plan for families which includes obtaining the proper documentation from the Landlord and communicating with the Landlord to explain the procedures of our intervention.

·         Help clients obtain permanent housing through accessing security deposits and housing referrals.

·         Provide crisis intervention and/or short-term case management services to clients including but not limited to accurate and timely referrals, mediating with landlords and/or their counselors/attorneys to obtain the necessary paperwork to avoid the eviction process, redirecting legal cases to the appropriate agencies and following up until the case is settled, as well as maintaining good and clear communication with clients and other governmental institutions.

·         Maintain proper client notes and program documentation.

·         Submit the check request  for rental assistance to Program Manager in a timely manner.  

·         Verify Clients information on and City System Program to avoid duplication cases.

·         Complete data entry of new clients’ information in QuickBase Systems as well as the City System, also update information of duplicate clients in both systems.

·         Scan the complete client’s signed Excel file and upload the RAP Intake Form in the Catholic Charities System

·         Compile reports as requested.

• Respond to all phone messages, participant requests, staff requests, and emails as appropriate and in a timely manner.
• Attend all meetings as scheduled and participate in meetings as requested.

This job description reflects management's assignment of essential functions.  It does not prescribe or restrict the tasks that may be assigned.

ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS

• High School degree required; BA/BS degree preferred.
• Must have experience working with individuals or families in crisis
• Must have knowledge of San Francisco housing resources and public benefits.  
• Must have a thorough working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite.
• Must have an ability to complete paperwork accurately and write business correspondence.

• Must have demonstrated problem-solving skills.

• Must have experience working within databases, and have excellent data entry skills.
• Must have some knowledge of San Francisco landlord-tenant law and terms of tenancy. 
• Must have a strong working knowledge of mental health and substance abuse issues.
• Must be able to perform basic math calculations with minimal mistakes.
• Must have an ability to read, understand, and apply language from manuals, policies, technical procedures, and instructions.

• Must have demonstrated customer service skills.

• Must pass all post-contingency offer background checks, reference checks, and TB screening clearances. [1]

• Must read, communicate orally, and write in English.

• Must be able to handle multiple tasks simultaneously in a fast-paced environment with excellent attention to detail.
• Must have experience working effectively with diverse, low-income, homeless and/or formerly homeless population.
• Previous experience locating and maintaining affordable family housing preferred.
• Experience working in non-profit or public sector preferred.

• Bilingual skills preferred, specifically Spanish, Vietnamese, Chinese or Arabic.

REQUIRED BEHAVIORAL SKILLS & ABILITIES

• Demonstrates professional behavior that is consistent with THC’s Mission, Core Values, and Customer Service Philosophy.
• Adapts well to change, and remains professional, respectful, and composed at all times.
• Must be honest, dependable, and accountable.
• Establishes and maintains effective and appropriate relationships and boundaries, and communicates with clients, co-workers, supervisors, and external parties in a manner that fosters respect and trust.
• Exercises good judgment in using and/or keeping information regarding clients and co-workers, and adheres to THC’s confidentiality policy.
• Works well independently, collaboratively, and as a team member.
• Follows instructions completely and asks for help and/or guidance from supervisors when needed.
• Has good time management skills and is punctual to work, THC meetings, and events.
• Refrains from actions that may result in conflict or may be determined as aggressive, threatening, or violent.
• Takes pride in work and performs all assigned duties diligently, efficiently, and effectively.

[1] Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with conviction and arrest records.