Housing Specialist

Housing Specialist

Recognized as one of the best places to work in Southeast Minnesota for three consecutive years, at Olmsted County every role helps to foster a vibrant community where everyone thrives. Our employees are at the heart of everything we do, driving public service excellence and community well-being.

We don't just offer a job, we offer a career filled with purpose, growth, and fulfillment. Our benefits package ensures your wellbeing, while career advancement opportunities and professional development empower you to reach your full potential.

Join us, and you'll be part of a purpose-driven team where your work truly makes a difference. Together, we build a sustainable, healthy, and welcoming community.

Minimum Qualifications of Education and Experience

Expected starting salary range $27.14 to $36.25 per hour. Full range $27.14 to $45.35. Associate's degree from an accredited college in human services or related field and one (1) year of experience in a similar position as listed in the work functions. OR A combination of education and experience equivalent to three (3) years of experience in a similar position as listed in the work functions. Regular and reliable attendance is a necessary component of job/position. Individuals required to use County vehicles and equipment must have a valid driver's license and be free of any major traffic violations for the last three (3) years.

Nature of Work

Under supervision, manages an assigned caseload, performs day-to-day coordination, and determines and verifies eligibility. Conducts inspections, annual re-certifications, program terminations, and new leases in compliance with policy and funding regulations. Recommends updates to policies and procedures. Assists with training staff. Supports a diverse, respectful, and inclusive workplace.

Examples of Work

• Manages an active caseload of clients applying for and receiving rental assistance benefits and other specialty programs. Determines participant program eligibility for occupancy, reviews eligibility and rent calculations.
• Conducts initial and on-going Housing Quality Standards (HQS) inspections to determine compliance with program rules. Communicates results to tenants and property owners.
• Prepares housing assistance payment contracts to coordinate payments between the Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA) and property owners.
• Explains housing programs and regulations and answers questions. Researches issues and assists with resolving problems with payments, clients, and files.
• Maintains client files and ensures documentation is complete and correct.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of state and federal housing programs, including eligibility requirements.
• Knowledge of laws and regulations for property owner and tenant relations.
• Knowledge of community resources.
• Skill in providing customer service.
• Skill in the use of computers and technology.
• Skill in de-escalation techniques.
• Ability to implement safety awareness strategies.
• Ability to recommend solutions to problems.
• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to maintain accurate and systematic records.
• Ability to work with diverse populations.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.
• Ability to organize and prioritize tasks.

Persons with disabilities: the above is a general listing of job duties. Essential and non-essential functions may vary by individual position. Reasonable accommodations may be available for both essential and non-essential job duties.

An Equal Opportunity Employer

Additional Considerations

• This is a Rochester, MN based position and is not remote eligible at this time.
• International relocation or international remote working arrangements (outside of the US) will not be considered.
• Applicants for this position must be currently authorized to work in the United States.
• Olmsted County does not sponsor applicants for this position.