Housing Specialist

Housing Specialist II

The County of San Diego is currently accepting applications for Housing Specialist II. Interviews will be held the week of October 26, 2026. Job offers will be made the week of November 2, 2026. Selected candidates will be hired at Step 1 of the salary range, $65,270.40 annually.

Housing and Community Development Services (HCDS) improves the quality of life in our communities - helping families in need to find safe, decent and affordable housing, and partnering with property owners, landlords, and developers to increase the supply and availability of affordable housing. HCDS provides many valuable services to support the local community and strives to create more livable neighborhoods that residents are proud to call home.

Housing Specialist II is the journey-level class in this series. Incumbents manage rental assistance contracts, determine initial or ongoing eligibility for rental assistance, perform special projects, and may provide technical guidance and training to staff or other organizations.

The timeline for this recruitment is outlined below:

• Job Offer and Background Process begins: Shortly after the interviews.
• Pre-employment Medical Screening: Approximately 3 days following successful background investigation results.
• Anticipated Start Date: Start date will be based upon successful completion of medical screening or other mutually agreed upon date.

The Ideal Candidate will possess:

• Professional level experience interpreting, explaining and applying low income housing program rules and regulations
• Experience managing a caseload of rental assistance contracts
• The ability to communicate effectively with individuals representing diverse cultures and backgrounds and function calmly in situations that require a high degree of sensitively, tact, and diplomacy

Desirable Traits: We are seeking a customer focused individual who communicates effectively and values and respects others. Our work environment is both collaborative and independent depending on duties being performed. We expect staff to value continuous learning and demonstrate ethical behavior.

Minimum Qualifications: One (1) year of housing program-related experience at the level of Housing Specialist I with the County of San Diego, which must have included interpreting, explaining, and applying low income housing program rules and regulations. OR Two (2) years of any combination of housing program-related experience at the level of Housing Specialist I and eligibility program-related experience at the level of Human Services Specialist with the County of San Diego, which must have included interpreting, explaining, and applying program rules and regulations.

Note: Possession of a public housing certificate or diploma sponsored by one of the Public Housing specific training organizations such as Nan McKay, Housing Television Network (HTVN), National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials (NAHRO), is highly desirable.

Blind Applicant Screening: The Department of Human Resources removes personally identifiable information from all recruitments. This practice, called Blind Applicant Screening, hides a candidate's personal information that could influence or bias a hiring decision. Personal information includes name, phone number, address, gender, age and race. This process helps contribute to a fair and equitable selection process leading to a more diverse and inclusive workforce.

Evaluation: The names of qualified applicants will be placed on a six (6) month employment list based on scores received during the evaluation of information contained in the employment and supplemental application forms. Please ensure that all information is complete and accurate as the responses you provide on the supplemental application questionnaire will be reviewed using an automated evaluation system.

Condition of Employment: As part of the County of San Diego's pre-employment process, prospective candidates will undergo a background check (including fingerprinting) and a pre-employment medical screening prior to beginning County employment. Additional types of background investigations may be conducted based on the job-related activities of the position. Current County employees may be excluded from this process. Note: Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable a qualified individual with a disability to perform the essential functions of a job, on a case-by-case basis.

The County of San Diego is committed to veteran hiring, retention, and professional development. We recognize the contributions and sacrifices made by our veterans and value the unique expertise and leadership qualities they bring to our workforce. We strive to provide veterans with the resources and tools necessary to maximize their employment opportunities, and to assist veterans with their transition into civilian life by applying the valuable skills, knowledge and training acquired in service to positions and career paths at all levels within our large organization.