Job Description
Job DescriptionWe are looking for a dedicated Housing Specialist to join our team in Berkeley, California. In this long-term contract position, you will play a pivotal role in assisting clients with housing needs, ensuring eligibility compliance, and maintaining accurate documentation. This role requires a strong ability to communicate effectively, analyze data, and provide exceptional support to clients, landlords, and community stakeholders.
Responsibilities:
• Conduct interviews with clients and applicants to assess their housing needs and assist with completing necessary applications and declarations.
• Verify applicant information by gathering data from previous landlords, social service departments, and other relevant agencies.
• Evaluate eligibility for housing assistance programs based on established criteria and make informed decisions.
• Manage and maintain detailed client records, oversee annual reexaminations, and handle interim changes, terminations, and portability processes.
• Calculate housing allowances to determine rent levels and decide on program continuation, modifications, or terminations.
• Issue housing vouchers and lead informational briefings for unit transfers and relocations.
• Ensure accurate data entry to support monitoring activities, generate reports, prepare lease agreements, and draft essential documents.
• Facilitate meetings with landlords, applicants, and participants, mediating disputes in accordance with housing regulations.
• Provide courteous and confidential customer service, responding to inquiries about housing programs through phone, email, and in-person communication.
• Prepare and manage required forms and documents for government compliance, ensuring timely responses to correspondence and inquiries.• Proficiency in conducting interviews and collecting client financial and personal data.
• Strong knowledge of housing assistance programs, including Section 8 requirements and audit compliance.
• Familiarity with rental property management procedures and tenant eligibility processes.
• Advanced skills in using computer applications such as Microsoft Word, Excel, Access, and PowerPoint.
• Ability to analyze data effectively for recertification and eligibility determinations.
• Expertise in standard office practices and procedures to ensure efficient workflow.
• Excellent communication skills to provide clear interpretations of program regulations and resolve conflicts.
• Experience in managing budgets and understanding financial processes related to housing programs.