Housing Program Assistant

Job Overview

This is specialized work involving responsibility for reviewing and evaluating records and applications related to housing assistance programs such as Section 8 of the Federal Housing Assistance Payments Program, also known as the Housing Choice Voucher Program, or programs offered through the New York State Division of Housing Programs. The work is performed under the general supervision of the head of the agency or a higher-level administrator, in accordance with prescribed policies and procedures. Does related work as required.

Duties

• Reviews housing applications for completeness and accuracy;
• Conducts applicant interviews to gather information for eligibility determinations;
• Evaluates financial data and makes eligibility recommendations in accordance with the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the New York State Division of Housing guidelines;
• Prepares and processes required forms (recertifications, leases, addendums, housing assistance payment contracts, etc.);
• Negotiates rent adjustments and resolves tenant-landlord issues during initial placement and recertification;
• Informs applicants about program eligibility, subsidy amounts, participant responsibilities, etc.;
• Manages waiting list documentation and tracks application details;
• Leads or assists in briefing sessions to explain certificate and voucher programs and participant responsibilities, etc.;
• Conducts housing unit inspections to ensure compliance with quality standards;
• Maintains records of tenants and landlords in compliance with federal and state guidelines;
• Maintains a variety of records including the above and prepares reports as required;
• Operates standard office machines and utilizes various computer programs and applications for the completion of work assignments;
• May arrange inspections with a Building Inspector;
• May maintain financial records, update ledgers and prepare checks and related documents.

Minimum Qualifications

Graduation from high school or possession of an equivalency diploma and two (2) years of paid work experience examining, investigating or evaluating claims for assistance, housing, veterans or unemployment benefits, insurance (e.g., health) benefits or similar programs operating under established criteria**.

NOTE: Education beyond high school may be substituted for the required work experience on a year-for-year basis.

Skills

• Good knowledge of laws, rules and regulations pertaining to Section 8 of the Federal Housing Assistance Payments Program and New York State Division of Housing Programs*;
• Ability to establish and maintain cooperative relationships with others; ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing;
• Ability to conduct interviews in order to gather information; ability to evaluate information and provide recommendations regarding clients’ financial eligibility;
• Ability to understand and carry out oral and written instructions;
• Ability to maintain records and prepare reports;
• Ability to use computer software in the completion of assignments*.
• This role is perfect for motivated individuals eager to make a difference in their community by providing essential housing support while honing their expertise in social work, property management, and high-risk population support. Join us in creating pathways to stability—your dedication can change lives!

Pay: $50,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan

Work Location: In person