Housing Specialist

Summary This is administrative work with responsibilities for new admission and recertification processing for families participating in the agency’s rental assistance and subsidy programs. The purpose of this position is to ensure that assigned programs are operated in an efficient manner and are fully compliant with all governing rules.

Scope of Responsibility Under the supervision of the Director of Housing, this position is responsible for the day-to-day operations associated with rental assistance programs managed by the Housing Authority. Interprets applicable state and federal regulations regarding occupancy and eligibility issues and insures compliance with Fair Housing Laws. Responsible for a caseload of participants and completely manages their caseload, from eligibility and scheduling appointments to authorizing housing assistance payments.

Essential Job Functions (May vary by position)

1. Effectively Manage Assigned Rental Assistance Programs · Maintain compliance with all funding and agency requirements. · Perform administrative work involving applicant and client interviewing, selection, leasing and case management. · Interview housing applicants and verify all documentation provided for eligibility criteria. Make the final determination as to eligibility for rental assistance programs in accordance with applicable established program regulations and policies. · Input data into the Authority’s database program(s). · Prepare contracts and vouchers for new participants and for active participants who have moved. · Conduct income certifications, recertifications, rent adjustments, eligibility determinations, suitability determinations, and reasonable accommodations in accordance with program guidelines. Calculate client’s rental portion and housing assistance using the proper allowances. · Keep legible records on each individual client. Document and report all issues to supervisor. · Refer clients, as appropriate, to social services such as health, welfare, and education programs for improving family and community standards. Manage suspected fraud cases or program violations. If assistance is needed, consult with supervisor. · Develop case management plans for participants of various programs where appropriate. Assist participants with developing attainable goals within the context of program guidelines. Monitor participant progress and make recommendations for case plan revisions as needed. · Terminate assistance in accordance with program guidelines and participate as the presenter at informal hearings involving households who are not in compliance with regulations and have been terminated from the rental assistance program. Gather and present evidence at the hearing to uphold Authority termination. · Review information for program participants transferring in from other housing authorities and comply with established HUD guidelines for portability. · Prepare rent comparability and market information studies, assist in housing inventory studies. · File, retain or destroy all expired/inactive files in accordance with records retention policy. · Prepare reports to the supervisor on status of applications, leases, applicant interviews, annual reexaminations, and special programs. · Prepare appropriate forms for the Accounting Department to release housing assistance payments to landlords. · Prepare correspondence to landlords/tenants. · Assist in researching, developing, maintaining and revising department forms, procedures, and control systems as needed. · Attend training, read appropriate publications, and confer with others in this field to stay knowledgeable of the changing federal regulations and policies. · Provide back-up coverage for the Housing Inspector, conducting move-in, annual, re-inspections and special inspections, determining compliance with established guidelines. Advise landlords and participants as to the "fail" items and of the time frame for making necessary corrections. Work with landlords and participants in resolving any outstanding issues.

1. Collaboration · Attend regular meetings to discuss new approaches to better serve our clients and review new and current policies and procedures. · Establish and maintain good rapport with public, family clientele and landlords; promulgate and maintain Authority policies, rules, and regulations. · Coordinate activities and exchange information with other departments, including Administration, Accounting, Asset Management, and Development.

1. Teamwork · Attend training sessions that pertain to Housing as required to meet the ever-changing needs of the job requirements. · Work closely and professionally with other public agencies and organizations that may be available for the betterment of our communities.

FULL JOB DESCRIPTION IS AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST