Housing Specialist

Under the general guidance and leadership of the Director of Housing and Community Services, the Housing Specialist performs technical and administrative work supporting housing assistance and residential rehabilitation programs. This role requires strong knowledge and skill in Federal and State housing programs. The position conducts detailed housing inspections, prepares the scope of work, oversees contracts and ensures compliance with Federal, State and Local requirements. The role requires strong knowledge of grant-funded housing programs, residential constructions, case management and community development funding requirements. ESSENTIAL DUTIES To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. These are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work performed. The omission of specific duties does not exclude them from the position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Conduct eligibility screenings, review applications, assess needs and provide case management for clients seeking housing assistance. Prepare and maintain program files, compliance documentation, environmental reviews and regulatory reporting. Monitor projected budgets and ensure adherence to funding guidelines. Perform on-site inspections to identify deficiencies and determine necessary repairs for rehabilitation. Review work write-ups and cost estimates. Oversee construction activities, conduct progress and final inspections and ensures compliance with program standards. Review invoices, change orders and closeout documentation. Guide clients through the rehabilitation and housing program process, explaining requirements, timelines and expectations. Serve as the liaison among homeowners, contractors, inspectors, partner organizations and financial institutions. Conducts outreach to promote program participation and community awareness. Interpret and apply Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Florida Housing Finance Corporation and applicable local program requirements and policies. Assist with audits, monitoring visits and corrective actions. Conduct pre-construction conferences with clients and contractors, including the preparation of documents. Coordinate with vendors for the installation of carpet, water heaters, appliances and other items required to complete construction. Ensure all warranty work is completed, and all project files are properly closed. Responsible for overseeing the maintenance of insurance, license and permit records on all contractors. Maintain records and documentation of inspections and other work performed. Compile date and submit written and/or oral reports. Other duties as assigned. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES Knowledge of building codes, rehabilitation standards and basic residential construction practices. Ability to manage multiple housing rehabilitation projects from planning through completion. Strong skills in communication clearly and effectively with clients, contractors, vendors, fellow team members and regulatory agencies, both orally and in writing. Knowledge of HUD protocols and regulations related to lead-based paint hazards, including risk assessments, abatement, interim control procedures and clearance standards. Skilled in problem-solving and conflict resolution, particularly in contractor-homeowner disputes. Ability to assist clients with programs administered by the department with professionalism and empathy. Ability to maintain accurate records and documentation related to inspections, permits, contractor licensing and project progress. Ability to establish and maintain effective, cooperative, professional and team-focused relationships with team members, leaders, other departments, community members and the general public. Ability to learn third-party software in an independent and efficient manner. Strong skills in Microsoft Office products (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook). Ability to adapt plans and scope of work to meet the needs of clients while adhering to program budgets and timelines. Strong knowledge of housing regulations and community development programs. Excellent case management and organizational skills. Proficiency in housing software systems and documentation standards. Working knowledge of basic accounting principles and practices. High school diploma or an acceptable equivalency diploma. Minimum of One (1) year of experience with CDBG, HUD and Florida Housing Programs preferred. Minimum of One (1) year of mortgage or banking experience preferred. Valid driver’s license. A comparable amount of training or experience may be substituted for the minimum qualifications. PHYSICAL DEMANDS The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. Summary: Occasionally - Lift/Carry: 15+ lbs., Push/Pull: 25+ lbs., Climb, Traverse Uneven Terrain. Frequently — Lift/Carry: 15 lbs. or less, Push/Pull: 25 lbs. or less, Twist/Turn, Reach Above Shoulder, Reach Outward, Stand, Drive. Constantly – Walk, Sit, Handling/Fine Motor Skills and Type/Keyboard. These are intended only as illustrations of various types of work performed. The omission of specific duties does not exclude them from the position. The City of Panama City is an Equal Opportunity Affidate/Action Employer. #J-18808-Ljbffr