Housing Specialist

HOUSING SPECIALIST:REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
Some knowledge of the principles and practices of management and business administration.

Ability to pay close attention to details.

Ability to effectively communicate in verbal and written formats with landlords and with families of low and moderate income using appropriate customer service techniques.

Ability to exercise mature judgment.

Ability to meet deadlines and work with limited supervision.

Knowledge of and ability to extensively use computers and computer software.

Ability to accurately perform all work (as determined by internal audits and other performance measurements).

Ability to read, learn, assimilate, and use Federal Regulations related to the Housing Choice Voucher program on a daily basis.

Ability to effectively adapt to change in computer systems, internal processes, regulations, and job-related requirements.

Ability to perform basic mathematical functions in order to perform income and rent caalculations.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
Graduation from an accredited high school with a minimum of two years of college or an equivalent amount of course or training in the fields of real estate, administration, and/or apartment management.

At least two years of responsible experience in an area directly related to the position, such as assisted housing or apartment management.

Any equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, stand, and walk. While the work is primarily sedentary, walking, standing, bending, and carrying of items such as books, binders, files, and documents is required. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:
Must be bondable.

Possession of a valid State of Georgia Driver’s License.

Must be insurable by the Authority’s vehicle insurance carrier if the employee will be doing and driving in fulfillment of the duties of this position.

POSITION SUMMARY:
This is responsible technical work in all phases of the operation of the Housing Choice Voucher program(s). This position is responsible for accurately taking applications, performing certification’s, maintaining landlord and resident records, interacting with other housing authorities and various community agencies, and negotiating and preparing HAP contracts conducting briefings publicizing the program. The Housing Specialist also is responsible for more than one specialized function/duty in addition to the regular duties of a Housing Specialist.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBLITIES:
The statements contained here reflect general details as necessary to describe the principal functions of this job, the level of knowledge and skill typically required and the scope of responsibility, but should not be considered an all-inclusive listing of work requirements. Individuals may perform other duties as assigned including work in other functional areas to cover absences or relief, to equalize peak work periods or otherwise balance the workload. The functions listed are also examples of duties that may be required and in no way imply a contractual agreement between the employer and employee or affect the at-will relationship between the parties.

Processes verification and documentation of required information.

Handles complete case file from initial contract through termination, including computer input/processing.

Acts as the contact person for Decatur clients porting to other agencies and ensures that paperwork is processed timely and applicable Housing Authority is properly set to receive payment.

Prepares and sends letters to Housing Choice Program applicants and recipients.

Briefs voucher holders.

Prepares contracts.

Accurately preforms all functions of the job.

Maintains records in good order and ensures certifications are current.

Handles more than one specialized function, such as performing a more technical or specialized duty. Provides supervision in a work area, etc.

Handles clients porting in from other agencies in a timely manner including setting up billing and processing paperwork. Meets HUD time frames as required.

Delivers outstanding customer service.

Specialized functions include inspections, portability, reporting duties, computer system responsibilities, etc.

Calculates household income and rent.

Read, understand, and interpret HUD regulations and Housing Authority policies.

Maintains assigned caseload.

Retrieves comparables from online website

Attends work with regularity and punctually and recognizes that attendance is an essential duty and responsibility of this position.

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES:
Works in all phases of the Housing Choice Voucher Program.

Handles all paperwork related to program operation and for a substantial caseload.

Meets all required time frames.

Utilizes computer to perform responsibilities.

Prepares HUD required forms completely and accurately.

Maintains all files in accurate and correct order and ensures all required forms are completed in their entirety.

Counsels with families as needed.

Completes detailed job assignments on a regular or sporadic basis as assigned.

Coordinates work with other employees and ensures timely completion.

Prepares regular reports as assigned.

Provides back-up coverage to front desk as assigned.

Adjusts schedule to accommodate special needs of customers, including special appointment times.

Performs other related work as assigned.

BEHAVIORAL COMPETENCIES :
This position requires the incumbent to exhibit the following behavioral skills:

Problem Solving: Identifies and resolves problems in a timely manner; Gathers and analyzes information skillfully; Develops alternative solutions; Works well in group problem solving situations; Uses reason even when dealing with sensitive topics and/or irate customers.

Customer Service : Meets/exceeds the expectations and requirements of internal and external customers; Manages difficult or sensitive customer situations; Responds promptly to customer needs; Solicits customer feedback to improve service; Responds to requests for service and assistance.

Interpersonal Skills: Focuses on solving conflict, not blaming. Maintains confidentiality. Listens to others without interrupting.

Teamwork : Balances team and individual responsibilities. Contributes to building a positive team spirit. Puts success of team above own interests.

Professionalism: Approaches others in a tactful manner; Reacts well under pressure; Treats others with respect and consideration regardless of their status or position; Accepts responsibility for own actions.

The Decatur Housing Authority was established in 1938 with its primary focus being on building housing for low income households. Over the years, the Housing Authority has expanded its focus to include the revitalization of the Decatur community as a whole through the renewal and redevelopment of substandard housing, as well as improving facilities in the downtown area. The Authority is now expanding its efforts to revitalize & redevelop into the newly designated Columbia Park area of East Decatur.

(436111855)

[MAG_15C21FCF4A4]