Housing Specialist

Rockford Housing Commission, a federally funded Housing Commission, is looking for a Full – time Housing Specialist
Essential Duties & Responsibilities: These are typical responsibilities for this position and should not be construed as exclusive or all inclusive. He/she will perform a variety of duties including, but not limited to

The Housing Specialist is responsible for determining eligibility, both initial and continuing
Coordination of and conducting client interviews, briefings or other methods of intake and explains policies, procedures, rights and responsibilities in addition to federal and local requirements

• Determines eligibility of participants by verifying income, citizenship and other eligibility requirements
• Analyzes and verifies program participants' income, assets and expenses for rental subsidy calculations and rental adjustments for continuous assistance
• Evaluates the needs of the customer for the appropriate referral to external service providers
• Maintains the waiting list ensuring that applications are complete and processed in a timely manner and ensuring participants’ placement on the waiting list
• Maintains effective communication with participants, property owners / managers to explain violations, federal and local requirements and options to resolve violations
• Mediates disputes and lease violations between participants, owners and managers
• Prepares and submits documents to assist in the finalization of the Housing Assistance Payments (HAP) Register in a timely and accurate manner ensuring that the payments to owners and utility companies are processed on time
• Conduct timely reviews of program files for interim re-certifications or rent appeals
• Work with the Executive Director (ED) to ensure all contracts and leases are renewed annually and the property / tenant files are current and up to date
• Review and process move-in and move-out reports
• Ensure that all required data is entered and accurate in HDS , including the waiting list module
• Schedule and track Housing Quality Standards (HQS) Inspections
• Periodically perform field inspections of rental units for compliance with federal housing guidelines
• Work closely with inspector to ensure close communication of inspectional issues
• Maintains accurate client database
• Ensures that HUD Form 50058s are completed for all program participants and transmitted electronically to PIC/MTCS on a monthly basis
• Prepares verbal and written correspondence to other housing agencies, social services providers, housing clients, and other city departments
• Work respectfully and courteously with other employees, residents and the general public.
• Follow standardized policies, procedures, rules and regulations

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities: This is a partial listing of necessary knowledge’s, skills, and abilities required to perform the job successfully. It is not an exhaustive list.

Skills

Skill in effectively communicating information in a clear, concise and understandable manner, both verbally and in writing to customers, clients or the public in face-to-face, one-on-one settings, using telephone, through email or in group settings

Must be accurate with attention to detail, with the ability to multi-task and problem solve.
Skill in data analysis and reporting
Good organizational skills and detail-oriented
Must have Proficient Computer Skills (Word, Excel, Outlook, Internet)
Be self-motivated and reliable to work independently
Sensitive to the needs of a diverse low income and homeless population

Abilities

Ability to handle confidential and sensitive information and issues in a politically correct manner
Maintain effective working relationships with participants, property owners, property managers and the general public
Make accurate mathematical calculations
Maintain accurate records and prepare computerized statistical reports
Ability to interpret federal and state laws and regulations
Manage several tasks at once, anticipate and identify problems putting forward solutions that are creative, innovative and flexible
Must possess the ability to work cooperatively with other City departments, other governmental agencies, private organizations and the general public
Understand the importance of daily work attendance, and its impact on co-workers and supervisors.

Minimum Qualifications – Education and Experience

High School Diploma or equivalent
Two years of comparable work experience in public housing, supportive housing, property management, or a closely related field
Preferred: At least two years of experience in a state or public housing authority that administered an affordable housing program including Section 8, Public Housing, Housing Choice Voucher, or Project Based Rental Assistance.

If you meet the above qualifications and are interested in this position,please send a resume to Rockford Housing Commission, 59 S. Main, Rockford MI 49341. No phone calls please.

*Rockford Housing Commission is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer*

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $17.00 - $22.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan

Work Location: In person