Housing Specialist

This is professional and technical work involving the coordination, implementation and monitoring of Housing Choice Voucher Program tenant and landlord processes. An employee in this class plans, supervises and reviews tenant applications, determines eligibility based on income and family composition and computes housing assistance payments and family rental rates. Work includes lease negotiations, determination of reasonable rents, resolution of property damages and participant/landlord complaints. Work is performed with considerable independence under the minimal supervision of the Assisted Housing Supervisor. Essential Duties and Responsibilities The position duties and responsibilities listed below describe the general nature and scope of work. Other responsibilities, duties, and skills may be required and assigned, as needed. Reviewing tenant applications for housing assistance payments, determining eligibility based on income and family composition, and determining the reasonableness of rents. Computing housing assistance payments, family rental rates and coordinating the inspection of the proposed housing unit. Conducting annual re-examinations of family eligibility and/or rental rates, re-negotiating lease agreements and supplemental payments. Processing lease renegotiations, participant transfers agreements and terminations. Oversees and coordinates the issuance of Housing Choice Vouchers to eligible participants. Meeting with landlords to resolve delinquent rent or physical property damage complaints and determining the basis for monetary reimbursement of tenant damages. Additional duties as needed Job Competencies Considerable knowledge of subsidized housing program requirements and guidance as reflected in HUD regulations, handbooks, notices, forms and guides RRHA HCVP policies and procedures. Knowledge of non-program federal requirements that affect income and rent determinations, including fair housing and equal opportunity, fraud and program abuse, personnel and employment practices. Knowledge of HUD established performance standards (for HCV, SEMAP indicators) and RRHA- established performance standards as they relate to income and rent determinations Ability to apply HUD and RRHA policies and procedures to consistently produce on-time and accurate income, rent and subsidy calculations. Ability to read, understand, interpret, and apply HUD regulations, references, rules and polices and guidelines. Ability to independently make sound judgments in accordance with applicable laws, rules, polices and guidelines. Excellent time management, organizational, interpersonal, public speaking, research, analysis, and problem-solving skills are essential. Excellent computer skills and the ability make error-free mathematical computations and accurately complete detailed documents are essential. Ability to establish and maintain effective relationships with landlords, tenants, employees, and the general public Must have a working knowledge of effective interviewing methods and techniques. Must have a working knowledge of the principles and methods of social services casework management and ability to apply them to homeownership services. RRHA Employees must have the technical aptitude to be able to use a variety of software and equipment, including but not limited to: Yardi, UKG, Microsoft 365, etc. on an as-needed basis. Education and/or Experience (The following requirements may be used to evaluate applicants for employment. When applicable, equivalent substitution will be allowed for differences in experience and education.) Education: Successful completion of a bachelor's degree in public administration, business, finance or behavioral science, or any equivalent combination of education and experience that demonstrates the required competencies to be successful in the position. Experience: Public sector experience or any equivalent combination of education and/or experience. Preferred Education and/or Experience: Must either possess or be able to obtain a Housing Choice Voucher Specialist certification within one year of employment. Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authority (RRHA) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable laws. RRHA encourages all qualified individuals--including those from historically marginalized communities--to apply.