HOUSING SPECIALIST

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Housing Specialist is responsible for performing technical and administrative work in conducting daily activities relevant to the various Housing Programs such as, but not limited to: Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) and Tenant Based Rental Assistance (TBRA) or other programs and contract administration. The duties listed below illustrate the various types of work that may be performed.

GENERAL DUTIES:

1. Must be able to communicate in the English language, in both oral and written form, with the general public and staff members using proper grammar, punctuation, and spelling.

2. Effectively use word processing and required computer/date base programs.

3. Perform accurate file maintenance task originating documentation, updating and storing files in manual and electronic record keeping systems.

4. Must be able to fulfill all responsibilities quickly, efficiently, effectively and accurately and collaboratively to meet program requirements and guidelines.

SPECIFIC DUTIES: This position:

· Compiles and completes all required documents and reports as necessary in a timely fashion.

· Serves as a backup for the Housing Coordinator in areas that will need day-to-day attention in the absence of the Housing Coordinator in regards to deadlines.

· Provides routine general information and responding to questions and other inquiries. Record clear and legible documentation in applicant files.

· Maintains all project files, records, and applicant waiting lists utilizing computer technology and standard client file procedures. Including filing office records and documents in active and inactive participants’ and applicants’ files. Retrieve files as necessary.

· Coordinates with Housing Coordinator project inspections of housing rental units to determine that all HUD housing standards/requirements are met.

· Prepares and sends written request for income verification. Obtains, verifies, and calculates all sources of income and resources to determine financial eligibility of applicants to be checked by Housing Coordinator.

· Performs administrative, clerical functions including effectively using word processing and other applicable software and hardware to accurately type, format, revise material such as correspondence, and forms from rough draft, corrected copy, or pervious version displayed on screen. Mails individual and bulk correspondence in accordance with Agency policy and procedures.

· Requests additional documentation from the applicants and/or references when appropriate. Ensures that all requirements for written, independent verification of information are met in an appropriate and timely manner.

· Responsible and accountable for maintaining integrity of client files, records, documents by adhering to filing system procedures regarding urgent, timely, and accurate processing of hard copy and/or maintenance of electronic records.

· Ensures privacy and maintains security of confidential materials.

· Accountable for consistent adherence to strong Agency standards regarding the ethical, responsible, and appropriate use, care, and safeguarding of Agency materials, supplies, resources and other assets.

· Undertakes and performs other work-related duties as assigned including work in other functional areas to cover absences or provide relief, to equalize peak work periods, or otherwise balance the workload.

· Provides effective and efficient the day-to-day TBRA program operations

· Ensures good order, accuracy and documentation of all Flint Hills Housing Assistance TBRA applicant/participant information and files.

· Performs TBRA customer problem solving, program enrollment, terminations and wait list maintenance activities in compliance with TBRA/HUD Administrative Plan requirements.

NATURE AND SCOPE:

The Riley County Housing Authority (HUD) through Flint Hills Housing Assistance provides Tenant Based Rental Assistance (TBRA) to eligible people in the 18 county region of the North Central-Flint Hills Area Agency on Aging. TBRA assistance provides payments for security and utility deposits to qualifying low-income applicants whose units meet Housing Quality Standards (HQS) inspection who need decent, safe, and sanitary housing in the community. Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV) assistance provides monthly rental assistance to eligible families in the same 18 county region.

The Housing Specialist is responsible for ensuring compliance with TBRA rules and the Section 8 Admin Plan. Must be able to complete clerical tasks (faxing, copying, scanning, emailing, typing, mailing, etc.). Work is completed according to agree upon deadlines. Must be able to work in a fast paced environment and be able to prioritize and complete tasks in a timely manner with attention to detail and have good communication skills with customers.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

High School or Associate degree; BS/BA in business, public administration, planning, social work or social sciences/business preferred. Knowledge of housing programs/housing issues and demonstrated successful experience with HUD programs preferred. Practical experience and proficiency in the use of computer hardware, software including Word, Excel and other Office Programs, 10-key, multiple line phone system, fax machine, copy machine, and calculator.

EXPERIENCE:

1. Knowledge of computer applications.

2. Knowledge of customer service relations.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

1. Ability to learn quickly and attend to detail.

2. Ability to plan and organize work to meet deadlines.

3. Ability to organize and supervise orderly organization of files and to maintain documentation

in files.

4. Ability to perform self-directed work with minimal supervision and attention to detail.

5. Ability to work cooperatively and communicate effectively with co-workers and customers.

6. Ability to exercise discretion and good judgement in decision-making.

7. Ability to maintain and secure confidential information.

8. Ability to handle many responsibilities at the same time and work well under stress.

9. Ability to understand federal regulations.

10. Must pass background check.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Work is principally sedentary, but may involve some physical exertion, such as kneeling, crouching, or lifting to obtain files, records, and office supplies and eyestrain from working with computers and other office equipment. Person in this position must be able to:

* Sit or stand for up to eight hours at a time while performing work duties.

* Bend, stoop, push and pull in the performance of office related duties.

* Use fingers bilaterally and unilaterally to operate office equipment.

* Establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers and clients.

* Perform essential job functions in a fast-paced environment that will sometimes include increased

levels of work-related stress.

* Maintain punctuality and attendance as scheduled.

TERMS OF POSITION:

This is a full-time, hourly non-exempt position. Hours are Monday - Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. EOE/AA

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $13.00 - $15.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits:

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

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Monday to Friday

Application Question(s):

• Are you willing to undergo and pass a background check?

Education:

• High school or equivalent (Preferred)

Work Location: In person