Housing Specialist

Position: Housing Specialist
Reports To: Executive Director
FLSA: Hourly Non-Exempt
Benefit Eligible:
Group Health Insurance (80% Employer Paid)
Pension, Long Term Disability, and Life Insurance Policy Eligible (Employer Paid upon eligibility)
The Housing Specialist is responsible for assisting with a variety of technical and clerical activities in support of the Housing Choice Voucher and Project Based Voucher programs administered by Kingsport Housing and Redevelopment Authority (KHRA). Job related duties require experience in performing a variety of administrative activities, good mathematical skills and the ability to effectively prioritize activities required to meet all established deadlines and reporting requirements. Job performance is evaluated by the Deputy Director. Job related duties are also subject to annual independent and HUD audits.
Necessary Requirements of Work
Graduation from an accredited four-year high school. An A.A Degree in public or business administration, social services or related field, or supplemental experience in property management is preferred. Must have experience working with individuals from a variety of socio-economic backgrounds and considerable experience performing administrative functions; good interpersonal, organizational and decision-making skills; considerable experience working with the public. Knowledge in the areas of social service is preferred. Applicant must have effective written and oral communication skills, knowledge of general office equipment and possess suitable computer skills for data entry. Any equivalent combination of education or experience to provide the following essential functions is required.
Essential Functions

• Assists in the day to day operations of the HCV and PBV programs
• Assists applicants in determining eligibility for housing and the type of housing which meets their needs
• Assists the intake coordinators in conducting verifications which may include credit, landlord, sexual register, and criminal records reports.
• Operates a multi-line telephone system and answers daily incoming inquiries from calls, voicemails, e-mails, faxes, etc.
• Composes and sends correspondences to applicants in accordance with waiting list requirements.
• Assists with ensuring that waiting and transfer lists are maintained in an up to date and accurate manner.
• Provides front desk coverage as needed; greets and helps clients, schedules and re-schedules appointments.
• Interacts with the local and regional service agencies, i.e. Department of Human Services, and assists applicants with referrals.
• Evaluates and understands rent conditions and market availability.
• Assists with inputting, receiving, and processing applications from individuals and families requesting rental assistance and places eligible applicants on the waiting list.
• Calculates rental payments and utility allowances in accordance with local fair market rents for various bedroom sizes based upon applicant income.
• Maintains ledgers, files and other documents in support of program activities.
• Assists with conducting briefing sessions for groups of eligible applicants to provide information about rental assistance programs.
• Assists with termination proceedings for failure to comply with program regulations and/or lease provisions.
• Assists with conducting quality control on case files in accordance with SEMAP requirements and corrects any inaccuracies and/or deficiencies when necessary.
• Performs related duties as required.

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of all activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.
Requirements
Special Necessary Requirements
Possession of a valid Tennessee Driver's License and the ability to be insured at standard vehicle liability rates.
Must obtain or maintain the following certifications within 30 but no more than 90 days of employment or other timeframe approved by Executive Director:

• Housing Choice Voucher Occupancy Specialist
• Project Based Voucher Occupancy Specialist
• Tax Credit Certification

I understand the requirements, essential functions and duties of the position. By applying for this position, I am confirming that I can perform all tasks, duties, and requirements without accommodation.