Job Title: HUD Housing Counselor
Location: Baltimore, MD
Reports To: Chief Of Staff, Vice President, President / CEO
Job Type: Full-time
Salary: Commensurate with experience
Job Overview:
The HUD Housing Counselor supports clients in achieving stable and affordable housing through education, counseling, and advocacy. As an essential part of the Community Land Trust Housing Initiative, the counselor adheres to HUD guidelines to deliver housing services that promote neighborhood sustainability and individual financial health.
Key Responsibilities:
- Client Counseling and Support:
- Provide one-on-one housing counseling sessions to individuals and families seeking assistance with home purchasing, foreclosure prevention, rental housing, and tenancy issues.
- Conduct comprehensive assessments of clients’ financial situations, housing needs, and potential obstacles.
- Develop personalized action plans and assist clients in understanding and navigating housing-related processes.
- Education and Workshops:
- Plan and facilitate workshops on topics such as financial literacy, homebuyer education, tenant rights, and responsibilities.
- Prepare educational materials and presentations to effectively convey complex housing information in an understandable manner.
- Collaborate with community partners to expand outreach efforts and enhance educational offerings.
- Documentation and Compliance:
- Maintain detailed, accurate records of counseling sessions, client interactions, and educational activities in compliance with HUD standards.
- Prepare and submit regular reports to the Housing Services Manager and HUD as required.
- Ensure all client files and data are handled confidentially and in accordance with privacy laws.
- Resource Coordination:
- Connect clients to additional resources and services such as legal aid, financial assistance programs, and local social services.
- Build and maintain a network of housing-related contacts and partners to facilitate comprehensive support for clients.
- Advocacy and Representation:
- Advocate for clients in negotiations with landlords, lenders, and other housing stakeholders.
- Represent the organization at community meetings, housing fairs, and other public events to promote housing stability and awareness.
- Professional Development:
- Stay updated on HUD regulations, local housing policies, and industry trends.
- Attend relevant training and professional development opportunities to maintain certification and enhance service quality.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in social work, urban planning, finance, or a related field; or equivalent work experience.
- HUD Housing Counselor Certification
- Strong understanding of housing laws, financial literacy, and community resources.
- Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team-oriented environment.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and experience with data management systems.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience working with diverse populations and low-income communities.
- Prior non-profit or community work experience.
Application Process:
To apply, please submit your resume, a cover letter detailing your relevant experience, and contact information for three professional references to (email address).
Experience:
- Case management: 5 years (Preferred)
Work Location:
- In person